"Curiosities of Common Water" -- 1851 Reprint of Important 18th Century Treatise on Healing Properties of Water
New York, New York: Fowlers and Wells, 1851. Later American edition, first published in England in 1723, of an early treatise on the potential healing properties of water. This would later be referred to in the 19th century as the alternative medicine of hydrotherapy, sometimes referred to as hydropathy. Using water in physiotherapy was most popular in the late 19th and early 20th century, and prompted the popularity of spas, sanitariums, and the use of what were perceived as "healing" waters and spring waters for health. Some of the interesting claims about the benefits of drinking water in this work: beneficial in child-bearing and breast feeding; preventing hunger; preventing bladder stones, gout, and melancholy; "cools" the blood and "strengthens" the stomach. Correctly states that water is more beneficial to children than hard liquor or wine (p. 40). Single vol. (7.5" by 4.5"), pp. 92, in original printed wrps. Two (2) copies of this edition on WorldCat (Sept. 2025). Very good. Toning, spotting, spine chipped. Modern ink to title-page.
Price: $325.00
Item #25001927