Chilling Apple Therapy
During Britain's Tudor era, a time often remembered for its dramatic royal events, sleep was highly valued. Alongside sensible practices like scenting
rooms with herbs and avoiding heavy meals before bed, an unusual method emerged: placing a cold apple on one's head. This practice, though odd by today's standards, might have a basis in reality. Experts confirm that a cooler environment is indeed conducive to better sleep, as it helps the body naturally lower its temperature, a key factor in initiating and maintaining restful slumber. While the sensation of a cold fruit on the scalp is unlikely to be appealing now, the underlying principle of temperature regulation for sleep is a recognized scientific fact.
Dormouse Fat for Dreams
The thought of mice might not be conducive to a peaceful night's rest, but an ancient remedy from Elizabethan England and possibly earlier involved a rather peculiar application: rubbing dormouse fat onto the feet. This practice's peculiar appeal might stem from the observed nature of dormice themselves, which are remarkable sleepers. Scientific observations have shown that these small creatures can hibernate for an astonishing period, extending for over 11 months without interruption. This extended period of deep sleep in dormice likely led people to believe their fat possessed potent somnolent qualities, inspiring this unusual foot treatment.
The Perils of Poison
In earlier times, substances now recognized as highly toxic were frequently employed as common remedies for sleeplessness. Ancient Greek physicians, for instance, sometimes prescribed a cocktail of poisonous plants such as henbane and deadly nightshade, alongside opium poppies, for insomnia sufferers. More recently, Mrs. Winslow's Soothing Syrup, a widely administered concoction for infants and children, contained significant amounts of morphine and often led to tragic outcomes. Even in the 20th century, methaqualone, widely known as Quaaludes, was initially approved in the United States in 1962 as a treatment for insomnia, underscoring a historical trend of employing dangerous substances for sleep.
Lettuce's Sedative Secret
Certain varieties of lettuce possess a compound called lactucarium, which exhibits mild sedative properties. This characteristic was recognized and utilized by the ancient Egyptians, who often turned to what they termed 'lettuce opium' as a solution for insomnia. Centuries later, in Victorian England, 'lettuce soup' was commonly cited as a remedy for restlessness. This historical reliance on lettuce for its calming effects highlights an early understanding, albeit anecdotal, of its potential as a natural sleep aid.
Cow Dung Against Pests
This particular historical sleep remedy is likely one that would deter sleep rather than induce it. In the 18th century and earlier, people sometimes resorted to rather desperate measures to keep insects away at night. According to advice from Hannah Glasse in her 1760 book, placing cow dung at the foot of the bed was one such tactic. This method was specifically suggested for individuals living in marshy areas, aiming to create a barrier against bothersome bugs and flies. The effectiveness of this strategy in promoting sleep is highly questionable, and it likely served a practical, albeit unpleasant, purpose of pest control.
Onions by the Bedside
While not a typical sleep aid one might consider, onions have historically been associated with inducing slumber, according to some folk beliefs. The idea is that the pungent aroma released by sliced onions placed near the bed could promote sleep. Although this practice might not be pleasant for housemates, some individuals still endorse it today. Beyond sleep, onions have been credited with clearing negative energy and alleviating colds. Scientifically, onions contain small amounts of L-tryptophan, a precursor to melatonin, and cysteine sulfoxide, compounds potentially linked to sleep. However, experts suggest the quantities are too small to have a significant impact, yet the enduring popularity of onion-based remedies, especially online, speaks to the desperation of those seeking sleep.
Vinegar Bread on Feet
In 1637, physician Tobias Venner proposed a variety of sleep-promoting strategies, some more conventional than others. Among his more unusual suggestions was tying vinegar-soaked bread to the feet. While this method doesn't seem to have endured, its impracticality is easy to surmise. The most obvious challenge would be the frequent need for laundry, a significantly more arduous task in the past than it is today, making this a rather cumbersome sleep remedy.
