An apothecary was like a pharmacist today. They would make and sell medicines. Sometimes they provided surgical, midwifery (helping pregnant women give birth to healthy babies), dental, and other medical services as well.

The apothecary sold medicines that came pre-made as well as making many on their own. They would make medicine from plants, animals, and minerals. Liquids were the most common form of medicine. Water, alcohol, or syrup would be mixed with other ingredients to make remedies for just about every ailment. During the 1793 yellow fever epidemic, apothecaries sold ropes dipped in tar that people wore around their necks to help prevent the disease.

It is true that many people had their own gardens and grew herbs for home treatments. However, apothecaries provided a wide range of medical services and medicines to those who could afford them.

Back