“Atropa belladonna or Atropa belladonna, commonly known as Belladonna or Deadly Nightshade, is a perennial herbaceous plant in Solanaceae, native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. ”– –īelladonna was used to inhibit uterine contractions and is still used today as an anti-spasmodic. Since the Middle Ages, controlled doses of ergot were used to induce abortions and stop maternal bleeding after childbirth. Ergot extract has been used in pharmaceutical preparations, including Ergot alkaloids in products such as Cafergot (containing caffeine and ergotamine or ergoline) to treat migraine headaches, and ergometrine used to induce uterine contractions and to control bleeding after childbirth. “The neurotropic activities of the ergot alkaloids may also cause hallucinations and attendant irrational behavior, convulsions, and even death.Other symptoms include strong uterine contractions, nausea, seizures, and unconsciousness. Ergot was used for the pain of labor.Įrgot derivatives are the principal drugs used today to hasten labor and aid in the recovery from childbirth. They utilized natural remedies and herbal remedies.

Most were taught by their mothers, grandmothers, or other women in the community. These women were called ‘wise women,’ ‘midwives,’ and sometimes ‘healers.’ These women held powerful status due to their healing ‘powers.’ Even today, women are often stereotyped with qualities of caregiver and nurturer. In the 18th and 19th centuries, most healthcare was provided by women. They were often charged specifically with possessing medical and obstetrical skills.” One reason purports that “…they are accused of having magical powers affecting health-of harming, but also of healing. During this time, women were accused of being witches for multiple reasons.

Yes, sorry to all the men out there, but guess what? It’s your fault! All kidding aside, ” The rise of the male medical profession in 19th century America” is to blame, according to the linked article titled A History of Women Healers. One theory lays the blame for the witch hunts and the relationship of nurses to witches on the MEN. The Witch trials of Northern Europe and the Salem Witch Trials all have some relationship to healthcare practices. Multiple documents address this historical relationship. There is a distinct correlation in the history of Witches, Nurses, and Midwives.

Witches midwives and nurses book