Which remedies were commonly utilized by women caring for the sick in the 1700s to help improve patient outcomes?

The choice of tinctures as remedies commonly utilized by women caring for the sick in the 1700s is grounded in the understanding of herbal medicine and the available practices during that time. Tinctures, which are concentrated herbal extracts made by soaking herbs in alcohol or vinegar, provided a means to easily administer the medicinal properties of plants. They were widely used for their potency and effectiveness in treating a variety of ailments.

During the 1700s, women often acted as healers within their households and communities, using tinctures to extract and preserve the medicinal qualities of herbs. This approach was practical for improving patient outcomes, as tinctures could be tailored to address specific health issues, ranging from digestive problems to respiratory ailments. The alcohol base of tinctures also acted as a preservative, allowing the remedies to be stored for longer periods without the loss of efficacy, which was particularly important in a time with limited access to fresh medicinal materials.

In this context, tinctures played a significant role in the healthcare practices of the time, aligning with the general principles of herbalism and the need for accessible medical care prior to more formalized medical practices.