10 Forgotten Medical Practices That Were Once Normal
Medical history is full of strange and unsettling practices that were once seen as cutting-edge or completely normal. Before modern science took hold, doctors relied on tradition, superstition, or limited understanding of the human body to treat illness. What was once accepted as standard care now seems shocking or even dangerous by today’s standards.
- Tricia Quitales
- 4 min read
Many past treatments were based on flawed theories or cultural beliefs rather than proven evidence. Some were painful, ineffective, or even deadly, yet they were widely used and trusted by physicians of their time. As our knowledge of anatomy, infection, and chemistry improved, most of these practices were replaced with safer and more effective alternatives. These 10 forgotten medical practices offer a fascinating glimpse into the past — and a powerful appreciation for modern medicine.
1. Bloodletting
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For centuries, doctors believed that draining blood from the body could cure illness. This belief was based on the theory that imbalances in bodily fluids, or “humors,” caused disease. Leeches or knives were used to remove blood, often weakening the patient further. Leeching or knives remained popular well into the 19th century despite causing more harm than good.
2. Trepanation
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Trepanation involved drilling holes into a person’s skull to treat various conditions like headaches, seizures, or mental illness. Practiced in ancient cultures and into the Middle Ages, it was believed to release evil spirits or relieve pressure. Many patients likely suffered severe infections or brain damage as a result. Today, it is viewed as a dangerous and unnecessary procedure.
3. Mercury Treatments
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Mercury was once used as a cure for everything from skin diseases to syphilis. Doctors applied it as ointments or even prescribed it to be taken internally. While it sometimes killed bacteria, it also poisoned patients and caused lasting damage to organs and the nervous system. The toxic effects eventually led to its removal from mainstream medicine.
4. Lobotomy
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Introduced in the 20th century, lobotomies were surgeries that involved severing connections in the brain’s frontal lobe. They were often used to treat mental illness, including depression and schizophrenia. While some patients became more docile, many lost personality, cognitive ability, or even died. The practice fell out of favor with the rise of psychiatric medication.
5. Tobacco Smoke Enemas
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In the 18th century, doctors believed that blowing tobacco smoke into the rectum could revive drowning victims or treat respiratory issues. Kits for the procedure were even kept near rivers for emergencies. Eventually, it was discovered that the treatment was not only ineffective but also harmful. The rise of scientific methods helped put an end to such bizarre approaches.
6. Animal Dung Ointments
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Ancient Egyptian and Roman doctors sometimes used animal dung in poultices or ointments for wounds. They believed it had healing or disinfectant properties. In reality, it often caused infections and worsened the patient’s condition. Thankfully, improved understanding of bacteria and hygiene replaced these risky remedies.
7. Radium Water
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In the early 1900s, radium was promoted as a miracle cure for fatigue, arthritis, and even aging. Companies bottled radioactive water and marketed it as a health tonic. Some users suffered radiation poisoning, and at least one wealthy promoter famously died from overuse. Radium was later recognized as highly dangerous and banned in consumer products.
8. Plombage Therapy
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Plombage therapy involved placing balloons or materials like Lucite inside the chest cavity to collapse a lung. This was believed to help treat tuberculosis by giving the lung “rest.” The method caused severe complications, including infection and long-term damage. It was abandoned once antibiotics became available.
9. Electroconvulsive Therapy (in its early form)
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Early forms of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) involved administering electric shocks without anesthesia or muscle relaxants. It caused intense convulsions, injuries, and memory loss. Though modern ECT has improved significantly, the original technique was traumatic and poorly understood. It reflects the trial-and-error nature of past psychiatric treatments.
10. Heroin for Coughs
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In the late 1800s, heroin was introduced by Bayer as a less addictive alternative to morphine. It was commonly used in cough syrup and marketed for children and adults alike. Heroin’s addictive properties soon became apparent, and it was eventually banned for medical use. Its history shows how even well-intentioned treatments can have dangerous consequences.