Treatments Based on the Four Humours

The theory of the four humours, developed by Hippocrates and expanded by Galen, formed the cornerstone of medieval medical practice. This theory guided diagnosis and treatment well into the 19th century.

The Theory of Opposites

Galen's 'theory of opposites' was central to treatments based on the four humours. This approach aimed to restore balance when the humours were thought to be out of alignment.

Example: If a patient had a cold with a runny nose, it was believed to be the body's way of expelling excess phlegm. Treatments would support this natural process.

Humoral Treatments

1. Bloodletting: Used to reduce excess blood
2. Purging: To eliminate excess humours through vomiting or diarrhea
3. Diet adjustments: To balance hot, cold, wet, or dry qualities in the body

Highlight: The four humors theory in medieval medicine encouraged close observation of symptoms, as doctors sought to apply what they believed to be the most appropriate treatment based on humoral imbalances.

Longevity of Humoral Theory

The four humours theory remained influential until the development of germ theory in the 19th century by Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch.

Vocabulary: Humoral theory refers to the belief that health depends on a balance between the body's four main fluids, or humours: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile.

Ancient Ideas: The Work of Galen

Galen, a Roman physician born in AD 129, further developed and expanded upon Hippocratic medicine. His work had a lasting impact on medieval medical practices and understanding.

Galen's Contributions to Medicine

1. Theory of Opposites: Galen developed this theory in relation to the four humors, guiding treatment approaches.

2. Anatomical Studies: Through animal dissections, Galen made important discoveries about anatomy, including the brain's role in speech.

Highlight: Galen's anatomical work, while groundbreaking, also contained errors due to the limitations of animal dissection. For example, he incorrectly believed blood passed through tiny holes in the heart's septum.

3. Synthesis of Hippocratic and Roman Medicine: Galen's work combined and built upon earlier medical traditions, creating a comprehensive system that dominated medieval medicine.

Natural and Supernatural Treatments

Medieval medicine incorporated both natural and supernatural approaches to healing:

Supernatural Treatments:

• Prayer
• Astrology
• Trepanning (drilling holes in the skull)

Natural Treatments (encouraged by Hippocrates and Galen):

• Bloodletting
• Purging
• Herbal remedies

Example: The combination of natural and supernatural treatments reflects the medieval worldview, which blended rational observation with religious and mystical beliefs.