In the 19th and early 20th centuries, embrocation (a type of liquid liniment) was heavily used by stable hands, farmers, and carriage drivers to rub down horses' legs and joints. It was formulated to reduce inflammation, soothe sprains, relieve muscle soreness, and treat bruises caused by hard labor on cobblestone streets or fields.

Vanner and Prest were absolute giants of the equestrian world. Operating out of their factory on Old Kent Road, they made everything from hoof oils to leather waterproofers. Even winning gold medals for their leather dressings at the Calcutta International Exhibition back in 1884.

Eventually, the company merged with Carr & Day & Martin, the oldest horse care company in the world. 

In fact, if you walk into a saddlery shop today, you can still buy Vanner & Prest hoof oil.