All-over black back plaster in the '50s

[overthetop]

In the fifties, I recall an uncle (probably in his 50's) had on at least one occasion a black plaster applied to cover all of his back. I mostly remember the fuss in trying to remove it - that must have been very painful. But I often wonder what it was for. Some chest or respiratory problem? If anyone recalls anything similar or can answer what it was for it would be much appreciated.

[Sqad]

Could have been......Glycerine and Icthyol paste.

[overthetop]

Thanks Sqad. I'll check it out on the net but do you know what it would have been for?

[Sqad]

Yes it was used for leg ulcers mainly but also for infections like Bronchitis and Pneumonia.

[overthetop]

That's helpful. Many thanks.

[Marijn]

What was mustard plaster for?

[Sqad]

notafish.....same thing except not for leg ulcers.

[Mamyalynne]

notafish mustard plasters had many uses and as sqad says Bronchitis and pneumonia were but two of them, they are still used in Eastern Europe too, less so here.

[Mamyalynne]

agreed doc, not leg ulcers ouch!

[Marijn]

Thank you Sqad and Mamyalynne

[jno]

not a primitive version of a Brazilian, then?