Packet of Towle's 3x Special Pills

Abortifacient pills such as these were a popular, but largely ineffective, over-the-counter remedy including drugs and herbs (such as steel and pennyroyal) which were hoped to bring on a late period.Advertising from the time thinly hid their true use: ‘Woman’s unfailing friend Towle’s Pills for females are the Oldest, Safest and only Reliable Remedy for all Ladies’ Ailments. Quickly correct all Irregularities, remove all Obstructions, and relieve the Distressing Symptoms so prevalent with the sex’ (New Zealand Graphic, 1905).