Urine was considered an important diagnostic tool in medieval medicine. Doctors would examine a patient’s urine color, taste, and smell to determine their health.
The urine was also used in a practice called uroscopy, where a physician would hold a flask of urine up to the light and examine its contents for clues to the patient’s condition.
Leeches were a popular medical treatment in the Middle Ages. They were used to balance the humours in the body, remove impurities from the blood, and cure a wide range of illnesses. The use of leeches was so common that they were even used in surgical procedures to help control bleeding.
Bloodletting was a popular medical treatment in the Middle Ages. It was believed that by removing some of the patient’s blood, the balance of the humours in their body would be restored. Bloodletting was performed using leeches or by making incisions in the patient’s skin and letting the blood flow out.
Medicinal herbs were widely used in medieval medicine. They were used to treat a wide range of ailments, from headaches to digestive problems. Many of the herbs used in medieval medicine are still used today in modern medicine, such as chamomile and peppermint.
Surgery was considered a last resort in medieval medicine. It was only performed in extreme cases where all other treatments had failed. Surgery was also very risky, as there was no anesthesia or antiseptic, and the risk of infection was high.
Astrology played a significant role in medieval medicine. It was believed that the position of the stars and planets could influence a person’s health, and astrological charts were used to diagnose and treat illnesses. For example, if a person was born under the sign of Aries, they were believed to be more prone to head injuries.
Physicians were highly respected in medieval society. They were well-educated and often held positions of power and influence. Physicians were also well-compensated for their services, and some even had their own personal heraldic symbols.
Much of the medical knowledge of the Middle Ages was preserved in monasteries. Monks were often responsible for copying and translating medical texts from ancient Greek and Roman sources. Monasteries also had their own gardens where medicinal herbs were grown and used in the treatment of illnesses.
Trepanation was a surgical procedure used in the Middle Ages to treat head injuries. It involved drilling a hole in the patient’s skull to relieve pressure and allow the brain to expand. Although it sounds barbaric, there is evidence to suggest that the procedure was sometimes successful.
Aromatherapy was used in medieval medicine to treat a wide range of illnesses. Essential oils were used to stimulate the senses and promote healing. For example, lavender oil was used to treat headaches, and rose oil was used to treat depression.
