Apothecary Cabinets

It’s literally been decades and we still haven’t been able to get Rachel and Phoebe’s apothecary table from F.R.I.E.N.D.S out of our heads!

We are not alone, and we know why: There’s just something magical about the old-world charm that an antique apothecary cabinet possesses, isn’t there? It must be the promise of something special hidden away in its many drawers.

An apothecary cabinet is also both attractive and exotic.

Whatever the reason might be, the appeal of an apothecary cabinet cannot be denied.

What’s an Apothecary Cabinet?

Traditionally, an apothecary was a person who prepared and sold medicines. This predecessor to the modern-day pharmacist is steeped in folklore, hence, the fascination surrounding it.

Apothecary cabinets were used by both pharmacists and physicians in the 1800s to store their elixirs, herbs and medications. Some even had secret compartments that were used to store more elusive herbs and medications — even poisons.

Apothecary Cabinets at Chairish

If you are looking for something above and beyond a dresser, congrats! You’ve found it.

We have a ton of items in a wide range of different price points, colors and sizes. Use our filter function to find exactly what you’re looking for or browse our entire available inventory for ideas.

Whether it’s a Mid-Century Modern piece or a primitive Early American apothecary cabinet with an undeniably mysterious history, you’ll find it here in our curated inventory.

How Do I Use an Apothecary Cabinet?

An apothecary cabinet is an ace accent piece that also has oodles of storage, making it a highly utilitarian piece with a ton of character.

Some ways to utilize these cabinets are:

Storing hats and scarves in an entryway

Stashing medicines and makeup in a bathroom

Organizing socks and ties in a dressing room

Hiding away stationery, pens, paper and what-nots in an office

As you can see, an antique apothecary cabinet can be effectively used in every room of the house!

For those who have more tchotchkes than they would like to admit (ahem — guilty!), an antique apothecary cabinet is just what the doctor ordered.

It’s bold, quirky and has a touch of design magic; it’s an antidote to boring interiors!

If an apothecary table is not what’s on your mind, check out the variety of vintage Dressers here at Chairish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an apothecary cabinet?

An apothecary cabinet is a piece of furniture that was traditionally used by pharmacists to store medicines, herbs, and other medical supplies. These cabinets typically feature numerous small drawers, which allowed the apothecary to organize and easily access their various remedies. Today, antique apothecary cabinets are highly sought after by collectors and are often repurposed as unique storage solutions in homes.

What is the history of the Chinese apothecary cabinet?

Chinese apothecary cabinets, also known as herbal medicine cabinets, have a rich history dating back centuries. These cabinets were essential in traditional Chinese medicine, as they housed the vast array of herbs, roots, and other natural ingredients used to create healing remedies. The design of these cabinets often incorporated intricate carvings and symbolism, reflecting the importance of medicine in Chinese culture.

What is the use of apothecary chest?

An apothecary chest is a portable version of the apothecary cabinet, designed for medical professionals who needed to transport their supplies. These chests feature multiple drawers and compartments to organize and store various medicines, instruments, and other medical necessities. Today, antique apothecary chests are often used as decorative storage pieces, adding a unique touch of history to any room.