Electric Inhaler Trade Card

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, numerous products containing menthol were advertised as a cure for the pain of headaches, neuralgia  and other ailments. These remedies included inhalants, embrocations and plasters. The growing use of commercial electricity in that era inspired entrepreneurs to  emulate the power and speed the new technology, as seen here.

The Abbott Menthol Plaster Company, Inc., operated in Worcester, Massachusetts from 1891 to 1914. Their pocket-sized "electric" inhaler was a gimmick.  It was not powered in any way, and contained Abbott's menthol remedy. The tongue was a lever; when it was pulled, this caused the eyes and mouth to open, adding fresh air to the inhaled vapor. The verso of the card advertises Abbott's main-stream product.

 

 

Catalog Record: Electric Inhaler Trade Card