Vintage patent medicine bottles and tins and antique household and agricultural chemical containers stir the passions of many collectors.
These vibrant, decorative containers can bring a smile to the face, but may also contain toxic remnants of the original contents.
“Burgeoning demand for decorative farm and household product containers are more frequently bringing hazardous chemicals to antiques shops,” said James S. Brown Jr., M.D., of Midlothian, Va.
“Collectors of these containers should be cautious when handling these substances — many old products contained poisons now banned from use,” added Brown.
Planning on collecting old apothecary items? Here are some precautions to take.
Educate yourself about toxicology and learn safe procedures for handling products.
Never eat or drink around chemicals, and avoid breathing or touching them.
Keep them in a secure place away from children.
Remember that innocent brand names can hide deadly poisons.

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