B. G. Jefferis, M.D., Ph.D. and J. L. Nichols originally published this volume in 1897. According to the original authors "KNOWLEDGE IS SAFETY," and their medical "knowledge" from before the days of disposable diapers will be of great interest to historians, researchers of women's issues and the general reader in light of modern medical, social and scientific advancements. These pages reflect attitudes towards women, common family planning practices, and scientific "truths" of the times, giving the reader a deeper understanding of day to day life and beliefs during the late 1800s. This volume covers procreation disorders such as impotence and sterility, health during pregnancy, pregnancy advice including dress and diet, confinement during delivery, newborns and their care, home lessons in nursing sick children, and treatment for the diseases of infants and children including home remedies. Many of these home treatments, advising a simple diet and exercise, make the reader smile at their ageless wisdom. Some advice will make the reader grin - "Pregnant mothers should avoid thinking of ugly people... Also avoid ungraceful position and awkward attitude, but cultivate grace and beauty in herself. Avoid difficulty with neighbors or other trouble." Charming period illustrations augment the text. Appendices include a "Dictionary of Medical Terms" and "Old Disease Names and Their Modern Definitions." Includes illustrations and an appendix.

This enlightening artifact was originally published by Prof. B.G. Jefferis, MD, PhD, and J.L. Nichols, AM, in 1897 as a home medical reference for common people. The intent of the authors was to promote general physical and mental health by dispelling the myths and mysteries of both the human body and the medical sciences. To that end, this text covers a wide scope of health-related topics, including home remedies, the care of the sick, bathing and personal hygiene, puberty and reproduction, women's health issues and increasing longevity. Two appendices comprise a glossary of medical terms and a section pairing antiquated disease names with their new, "modern" definitions. Quaint period illustrations accompany much of the text. Like its companion volume, Safe Counsel: A Complete Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth and Childcare in the Late 19th Century (also published by Heritage Books, Inc.), this book is notable not so much as a reference work but as a reflection of the attitudes of our ancestors and of the times in which they lived. Some readers are sure to chuckle at some of the more peculiar scientific facts or advise offered by the authors, such as cautioning nurses to never wear dark clothing ("studies" had shown that dark cloth was more likely to absorb the "subtle effluvia that emanates from sick persons") or demanding sexual temperance (never just before or after meals and never under the influence of alcohol, to avoid "idiotic" offspring). However, it is the ageless wisdom of simple diet and abundant exercise that is most often suggested by the authors as a formula for well-being. Includes illustrations and an appendix.