Historical Rattlesnake Bite Treatments: 1840s Remedies

Trephining - This involved drilling a hole into the skin over the bite and inserting a tube to allow the venom to drain out.

Scarification - This involved cutting the skin over the bite to encourage bleeding and the removal of venom.

Cupping - This involved placing a heated cup over the bite to create suction and draw out the venom.

Tourniquet - This involved tying a tight band around the limb above the bite to prevent the venom from spreading.

Alcohol or whiskey - Whiskey or alcohol was sometimes applied to the bite to numb the pain.

Poultices - A poultice made from herbs or other ingredients was sometimes applied to the bite to reduce swelling and pain.