Some years ago a fellow contacted the local physician with a complaint about a sore finger. The doctor suggested he bathe the finger in very hot applications of Epsom salts.
The patient returned the next day and somewhat haltingly reported that the finger had improved, not, however, from any use of Epsom salts but rather from a poultice of bread, soap, and water.
"You ignored my advice then," reared up the M.D.
"Wasn't my fault, Doc. My sister-in-law was visiting us and she insisted the poultice would do the trick."
"Poultice, eh? That's very odd. My mother-in-law, who lives with us, insists Epsom is indicated in such cases ..."