Weird medicine: Here are some alleged cures used in the olden days

Most of us moan about the healthcare system from time to time, but spare a thought for those who lived in times past.

Before modern medicine, folklore and make-do methods formed many of the remedies on offer. Here’s a fearsome round-up.

Sore throats: Wrapping dirty socks around the throat was a popular practice in the 19th century to treat sore throats. Sometimes half an onion would be popped into the sock. Gargling with warm salt water was also common – and is still widely used today.