Soothing Balm
This creamy concoction is Crown Camphor Cream. Camphor ointment can be used to reduce pain, irritation, and itching caused by various skin irritants; applied topically, it can also ease coughing. The glass jar is still filled and retains the original white and red paper label. Camphor is still used as a balm for skin irritants today and can be found in products such as Vicks VapoRub.
This jar of Crown Camphor Cream was sold by T. Noonan & Sons Company of Boston, and dates to approximately 1901. Timothy Noonan was a hairdresser from 1871 to 1880, after which he moved on to manufacturing and selling hair and skin products. The company would go on to become a successful business, lasting well into the 1930s.
Like all medicinal products- especially those in the early 1900s- care had to be taken when using these remedies. Before the passage of the Food and Drugs Act in 1906, consumers of these products relied on the manufacturer and seller for facts about their effectiveness. As there were no formal regulations until 1906, some products caused more harm than good due to their ingredients or misinformed directions.
For example, Camphor cream should not be applied to any open skin, as it can quickly build up in the bloodstream and become toxic. Any warnings for children’s use are missing from the jar as well. Camphor is not recommended for very young children, as the concentration may be too high and there is the possibility of ingestion, which can be highly toxic.
The next time you reach for some Vicks to ease a cough, know that you’re using an age old remedy!