Antique Boericke Homeopathic Medicine Bottle Lot Gelsemium Cactus
Antique lot of three early 20th century homeopathic pharmacy medicine bottles from Boericke & Runyon and Boericke & Tafel, two of the most recognizable names in American homeopathic medicine. Includes labeled tincture bottles for Gelsemium Sempervirens (Yellow Jasmine / “Poison”), Cactus Grand., and Grindelia Rob. These retain their original paper labels and corks/cap.
The amber-tinted Gelsemium Sempervirens bottle features a detailed warning label reading “Poison” and references the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States. Gelsemium was historically used in homeopathic preparations for nervous conditions, fevers, and pain relief, though the plant itself is toxic in concentrated form. The clear Boericke & Tafel bottle labeled “Cactus Grand.” refers to Cactus Grandiflorus (night-blooming cereus), a preparation historically associated with circulation and heart-related remedies in homeopathic medicine. The third bottle is labeled Grindelia Rob., a botanical preparation commonly associated with respiratory and bronchial treatments.
Boericke & Runyon operated from New York and were prominent manufacturing pharmacists in the late 19th and early 20th century, while Boericke & Tafel became one of the largest homeopathic pharmacy firms in the United States with locations in Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, and beyond.
*Condition*
Good, consistent with age and storage. Bottles show surface wear, residue, staining, and age-related discoloration. Labels exhibit edge wear, fading, and staining. Corks remain present on two bottles, while the larger bottle retains its screw cap. No major cracks observed, though typical manufacturing imperfections and minor wear from age are present throughout. A nice "as-found" apothecary lot.
9z
#8
3L
JP
