Natural Victorian Cure For Dry Hands

Here is an 1890 cure for dry hands. You may be worried about it not being an effective antibacterial but it is. The antibacterial property of honey was first recognized in 1892 by Van Ketel. It has been assumed that this is due entirely to the osmotic effect of it's high sugar content. Honey was also used as an ancient remedy for the treatment of infected wounds. It can even be effective on antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria. Honey is produced from many different floral sources and it's antibacterial activity varies with origin and processing.

To Soften Hands:

1) Wash them with honey instead of soap. Rub honey onto the hands when the skin is dry; moisten a little, rub harder, and use a little more water. Finally, wash the hands thoroughly with the honey water. They will be clean, and this will not cause cracks or roughness.

OR:

2) After washing the hands with soap, rub them well with oatmeal while still wet.