Village Specifics.
Cure for Epilepsy
To wear round the neck a bag with a hair from the cross on a he-donkey.
Or,
To wear a ring made of sixpences begged from six young women who married without change of name.
Cure for Whooping Cough
An infusion of mouse ear hawkweed (Hieracium Pilosella), flavoured with thyme and honey. This is really effective, like other “yarbs” that used to be in vogue.
Cure for Shingles
Grease off church bells.
For Sore Throat
Rasher of fat bacon fastened round the neck.
For Ague
To be taken to the top of a steep place, then violently pushed down.
Or,
To have gunpowder in bags round the wrists set on fire.
Powdered chaney (china), a general specific.