Ancient Greek Medicine was a compilation of theories and practices that were constantly expanding through new ideologies and trials. Many components were considered in ancient Greek medicine, intertwining the spiritual with the physical. Specifically, the ancient Greeks believed health was affected by the humors, geographic location, social class, diet, trauma, beliefs, and mindset. Early on the ancient Greeks believed that illnesses were “divine punishments” and that healing was a “gift from the Gods”. As trials continued wherein theories were tested against symptoms and results, the pure spiritual beliefs regarding “punishments” and “gifts” were replaced with a foundation based in the physical, i.e., cause and effect.

Humor-ism (or the four humors) refers to blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile. It was also theorized that sex played a role in medicine because some diseases and treatments were different for females than for males. Moreover, geographic location and social class affected the living conditions of the people and might subject them to different environmental issues such as mosquitoes, rats, and availability of clean drinking water. Diet was thought to be an issue as well and might be affected by a lack of access to adequate nourishment. Trauma, such as that suffered by gladiators, from dog bites or other injuries, played a role in theories relating to understanding anatomy and infections. Additionally, there was significant focus on the beliefs and mindset of the patient in the diagnosis and treatment theories. It was recognized that the mind played a role in healing, or that it might also be the sole basis for the illness.

Ancient Greek medicine began to revolve around the theory of humors. The humoral theory states that good health comes from a perfect balance of the four humors: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. Consequently, poor health resulted from improper balance of the four humors . Hippocrates, known as the “Father of Modern Medicine”, established a medical school at Cos and is the most important figure in ancient Greek medicine.Hippocrates and his students documented numerous illnesses in the Hippocratic Corpus, and developed the Hippocratic Oath for physicians, which is still in use today. The contributions to ancient Greek medicine of Hippocrates, Socrates and others had a lasting influence on Islamic medicine and medieval European medicine until many of their findings eventually became obsolete in the 14th century.

The earliest known Greek medical school opened in Cnidus in 700 BC.Alcmaeon, author of the first anatomical compilation, worked at this school, and it was here that the practice of observing patients was established. Despite their known respect for Egyptian medicine, attempts to discern any particular influence on Greek practice at this early time have not been dramatically successful because of the lack of sources and the challenge of understanding ancient medical terminology. It is clear, however, that the Greeks imported Egyptian substances into their pharmacopoeia, and the influence became more pronounced after the establishment of a school of Greek medicine in Alexandria

5 Medicinal Herbs Used Since Ancient Greece

They are many herbs used commonly today that many people do not realize have been adored for millennia since the times of Ancient Greece. Elaborate myths were built around these medicinal plants highlighting their sanctity and believed origin. Keep reading to see how their medicinal uses still apply in the present day.

1. Mint (Mentha x piperita)

In Greek mythology, the mint plant was cherished by Demeter, the goddess of harvest, and her daughter, Persephone. It was said that mint was made from a Nymph named Minthê who was favored over Demeter by Hades (the god of the dead). In jealousy and anger, Demeter turned Minthê into a mint plant.

Mint was used to treat gastrointestinal issues, body odor, bad breath, and insomnia in Ancient Greece. Today, it is additionally used for treating bronchitis, headaches, influenza, motion sickness, and muscle pain.

2. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel was first known in Greek mythology as the plant Prometheus used to steal fire from the demigods. It was also the herb that covered the battlefield of Marathon. It’s used medicinally to relieve all manners of digestive disorders, especially bloating. This sweet herb can also stimulate appetite, and it touts diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.

3. Olive (Olea europea)

The olive tree was the most relished tree in ancient Greece. It was especially important to Athena, the goddess of wisdom, war, and divine intelligence; and Zeus, god of sky, thunder, and justice. Athena and Poseidon contended against each other to rule Athens. They were told whoever produces a better gift will win. Athena produced an olive tree, and Poseidon, a horse. Athena won.

Her victory may be due to the plentiful benefits that olive oil and olive leaves have to treat a wide variety of ailments. The leaves can be used to treat arthritis, prevent diabetes, and lower high blood pressure as well as improve brain function. Olive oil protects against cardiovascular issues and strokes.

4. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

In Greek myth, parsley is believed to grow from the ground soaked with the blood of Archemoros (also known as Opheltes of Nemea). The ancient Greeks, who believed parsley seeds made several journeys to Hades before germinating, used the herb as an aphrodisiac as well as in funeral ceremonies. In modern herbal-ism, parsley seeds are used as a strong diuretic and kidney-cleanser, and the leaves are a good source of nutrition in salads, rich in vitamins A, C, and E.

5. Saffron (Crocus sativus)

Saffron was sacred to Hermes the son of Zeus, and god of transitions. In mythology, there was a boy named Krokos, whom Hermes adored. When he died, Hermes transformed him into a saffron flower. This exotic spice was loved in ancient Greece, and it continues to be used in much spicy cooking in modern times for its unique flavor and medicinal properties. It helps fight depression, boost immunity, and aid in digestion. This is due to its high content of crocin, vitamins, and antioxidants.

When enjoying these wonderful herbs from ancient Greece, maybe you can make a story of your own for what they mean to you. Otherwise, just feel and savor their numerous medicinal and nutritional benefits.