July 12, 2013

Still Saving Lives





Tobacco Smoke Enema Kit (1750s – 1810s)

The tobacco enema was used to infuse tobacco smoke into a patient’s rectum for various medical purposes, but
primarily the resuscitation of drowning victims.

A rectal tube inserted into the anus was connected to a fumigator and
 bellows that forced the smoke into the rectum.
The warmth of the smoke was thought to promote respiration.
Doubts about the credibility of tobacco enemas led to the popular phrase “blowing smoke up your ass.”
As you are most likely aware this odd tool is still
 heavily used by the government.

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