The Bizarre 18th-Century Medical Practice of Tobacco Smoke Enemas

This illustration depicts a historical medical procedure where physicians used bellows to force tobacco smoke into the rectums of drowning victims. During the 18th century, this practice was believed to stimulate the body and restart internal organs, particularly in cases of apparent drowning. The technique was often performed using specialized kits found near waterways like the River Thames. While the phrase 'blowing smoke up your ass' is often linked to this practice, it remains a notable example of how medical theories have evolved significantly over time, moving away from such unconventional resuscitation methods.