Parenting practices have always been influenced by the medical knowledge and cultural beliefs of their time. What may seem shocking or harmful today was once considered responsible care. A striking example is the old custom of adding whiskey to baby bottles, a practice common in the 19th and early 20th centuries. At that time, alcohol was widely viewed as a form of medicine and was used for everything from sore throats to digestive issues. Parents genuinely believed a few drops of whiskey could soothe colic, ease teething pain, or help babies fall asleep.

In an era with limited access to medical care and very few alternatives for infant discomfort, this approach was often seen as compassionate. Families were doing their best with the information and resources they had. Whiskey was readily available, socially accepted, and even considered beneficial for health in small amounts. To many parents, offering it to their children seemed like a caring solution rather than a risky choice.

Medical professionals of the time sometimes supported these practices, as pediatric science was still in its early stages. Without modern research methods, the risks of giving alcohol to infants were poorly understood. Some doctors even prescribed alcohol for various childhood ailments, reinforcing its reputation as a legitimate remedy.

However, by the mid-20th century, scientific studies revealed the serious dangers of alcohol exposure in infants. Research showed that even small amounts could interfere with brain development, weaken breathing, and have long-term effects on health. These discoveries shifted both medical advice and public attitudes, leading to the rejection of the practice.

Public health campaigns and advances in pediatric medicine played a major role in ending the tradition. Safer remedies for teething pain, colic, and sleep difficulties gradually replaced whiskey and other risky home treatments. Parents began to rely more on evidence-based guidance, reflecting a growing understanding of child development and health.

Looking back, this practice highlights how parenting evolves alongside scientific progress. While today’s parents may find the idea alarming, it is important to remember that past generations acted with love and the best intentions. Their mistakes remind us of the value of continuous learning, medical research, and openness to new discoveries in ensuring children’s well-being.