Ancient Natural Painkillers

Many believe that patients before the early 20th century had to endure dental repairs, tooth extractions, or general surgery in agony, largely unrelieved except by slugs of whiskey or wine. Archaeology suggests that such was not the case—at least, not for everyone. Some of our ancient ancestors were quite creative when it came to medicine. Although we don’t know exactly how they acquired their knowledge and beliefs, they made good use of natural substances when it came to relieving or blocking pain.