Vin Mariani
Vin Mariani tonic was introduced in 1863 and was advertised both as wine, and as a general cure-all product promising to treat whatever ailment you may have. The tonic quickly became a sensation and was widely endorsed, used among many famous people of the time, including the Pope and Thomas Edison. The tonic even inspired the invention of Coca Cola. The reason behind Vin Mariani's success? Cocaine. The drink contained around 6 mg of cocaine per fluid ounce of wine.
#18 The idea is that of sympathetic (imitative) magic : mices have good teeth, so they are good for ailing teeth... the same kind of "reasoning" is always used nowadays in... homeopathy !
#19 Some trepanated prehistoric patients have survived long enough for the bone to grow again around the opening !
#1 Maybe one was supposed to have masturbated with a handful of cornflakes. That certainly would have made it a lot less fun. (Cream on your cornflakes, anyone?)