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Something to Rub On

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 16, 1916

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 93, No. 14.

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Something to Rub On

STRANGE, isn’t it, how many people in this intelligent age are wedded to the idea that it is helpful and really necessary to rub something on any part of the body that is in pain, no matter what the real cause of the pain may be? Many do not search for the cause, but seek to allay the pain by rubbing something on. Massage is often helpful, especially when the pain is in the muscles or in the outer nerves; but the substance applied, unless it contains cleansing properties, is often valueless, except as it helps the mind of the patient. Keeping the surface of the body clean is necessary, but most of the “rub-ons” clog the pores of the skin, and render the body incapable of discharging its natural functions.
As an illustration of the “rub-on” idea, we cite a case related a short time ago by one of the contributors to Life and Health. The doctor was called to see a lady seventy years of age. She and her husband were the “rub-on” kind. The old lady could not remember ever taking a bath. The doctor knew that a bath was about all she needed, but he could not prevail on her to take one. She thought it would kill her. She was afraid of water. She and her husband insisted upon having something to rub on, something good and strong. So the doctor made up a quart bottle of “rub-on” for them. The quart was for one application, and it was all innocently colored water, with plenty of cleansing properties, and something to give it a satisfying odor. This preparation was to be applied vigorously to all parts of the body, and the body wiped dry with a coarse towel. A few daily applications resulted in a cure, and the old couple insisted upon the doctor’s giving them the prescription so they could have it to use when he was away. He gave it to them, and now they rub on water in the form of a bath every day, and are well and happy.
In dealing with the people, Life and Health even makes use of the “rub-on” idea when it can be turned to the welfare of the patient. It is all things to all people, that it may turn some to the true principles of healthful living.