Figure. Canadian Healing Oil.
I found this bottle in a little tienda (general store) on the main street of San Ignacio, Belize. The shop owner told me it was a good liniment for strains and sprains. He also made the claim that half a teaspoon taken orally was very effective for coughs and colds. On the basis of the labelled ingredients, I would not advise this. “Each 100 mL contains: Sulphonated Seal Oil 46.69 mL; Turpentine 51.69 mL; Oil of Tar 1.54 mL; Camphor 0.72 g; Oil of Camphor 0.18 mL; Oil of Thyme 0.02 mL; Thymol 3.12 mg; Creosote 0.05 mL. For external use for the temporary relief of pain arising from strains, sprains, bruises, rheumatism, muscular stiffness. For best results: warm Canadian Healing Oil by placing bottle in a pot of hot water as warm Canadian Healing Oil is more readily absorbed. Cover with a warm flannel if possible and leave overnight. Keep out of the reach of children. Made by Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation Ltd. 1 Public Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, Guyana” I wonder why Canadian? Perhaps a little Canadian Healing Oil poured on the roiling waters of the public–private debate would have a soothing effect. — Photo by: Vincent Hanlon