O środkach halucynogennych, narkotykach, i medykamentach. Przypadek eteryzacji Zygmunta Krasińskiego piórem historyka społecznego

In the early nineteenth century there was a trend for experiments with drugs. In general, Polish sources remain silent on the question of intoxication other than with alcohol. However, there is one exception of Zygmunt Krasiński who in great detail described his experiments with ether. These tests of the poet are a starting point for further research into the role of drugs in the life of Poles. Reading of medical guides, but also of literary works leads to the conclusion that opium and its derivatives were often used, regarded usually as medicine or a substance to improve mood. In the opinion of Dr. J. Frank, opium was definitely overused in the Polish lands, mainly due to the fact that many doctors did not know that the constant use of drugs, like that of alcohol, can progress to an addiction. In the country, people used local intoxicating plants (datura, cowbane etc.). Possibilities of addition were limited only by unpleasant side effects.