We here at Forgotten Stories are always hesitant to endorse any product in the marketplace until we know it actually works, but it seems that this time, we’ve discovered a miracle of (un)modern medicine: LISTERINE! According to this advertisement from 1898, Listerine is useful in the treatment of whooping cough, scarlet fever, dressing operative wounds, diphtheria, pertussia, and as an air freshener.

Of course, that’s not all. We learn in 1922 that Listerine, used every day and applied either full strength, or in diluted form, is useful for the treatment of dandruff.

As if that wasn’t enough, from 1928 we find out that “Listerine, applied to the body with a sponge or cloth, will impart a refreshing feeling of cleanliness. It is effective as a deodorant when employed in cases of excessive perspiration, and useful for many purposes of personal hygiene.”

As we said, we are hesitant to endorse a product until such a time as we have proof that it actually works. In the interest of efficiency, we are looking with someone to try the product who has whooping cough, scarlet fever,  and dandruff, who suffers from excessive perspiration and body odor and also needs an air freshener. Please leave your name and contact information in the comment section below.