I can only guess that the ideal reader for this book is someone who is researching old cures and ways of doing things for a book set in the 19th century or someone who wants to marvel at how awful the state of home remedies used to be. While some of the information may be amusing, most of it is downright scary. The subtitle on the cover says: "Tried-and-True Tips and Treats that have Stood the Test of Time". I don't think so... in fact many of the "cures" would not only NOT cure the person, but quite possibly cause them great harm. The book also contains: cooking recipes, cleaning tips & recipes, cosmetiques, and remedies for farm animals. ( )