Sickness and Cures in Colonial America

What was a common belief about the cause of sickness in Colonial America?

• People thought sickness was caused by bad air.

• People believed sickness was a punishment from God.

• People thought sickness was caused by an imbalance of bodily fluids.

• People didn't know much about why people got sick.

What was one method used to bring down a fever in Colonial America?

• Drinking herbal tea

• Cutting toenails and using an eel

• Applying leeches

• Taking a cold bath

What was a common ingredient in homemade medicines in Colonial America?

• Herbs

• Minerals

• Animal fat

• Salt

Why might visiting a doctor in Colonial America not have been very helpful?

• Doctors were too expensive.

• Doctors didn't know much more than others about making people well.

• Doctors were only available in big cities.

• Doctors only treated wealthy patients.

What was a common treatment for a cold or sore throat in Colonial America?

• Drinking hot soup

• Sprinkling pepper on meat and wrapping it around the throat

• Gargling salt water

• Taking honey and lemon

What was the favorite cure for almost any illness by doctors in Colonial America?

• Herbal remedies

• Bleeding the patient

• Using leeches

• Prescribing rest

What was a special recipe used to feel lively when tired in Colonial America?

• Drinking coffee

• Roasting a toad and making tea

• Eating a hearty meal

• Taking a nap