Humoral theory

Humoral theory (pronunciation: hjuːˈmɔːrəl ˈθɪəri) is a system of medicine detailing the makeup and workings of the human body, adopted by Ancient Greek and Roman physicians and philosophers.

Etymology

The term "humoral" is derived from the word "humor," which in this context is used in its original sense of "fluid" (late 14c.). The theory is based on the concept of four humors (bile, blood, phlegm, and black bile) that are believed to be in balance when a person is healthy.

Theory

The Humoral theory posits that good health depends on a perfect balance of the four humors: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. Each humor is associated with a particular temperament (sanguine, phlegmatic, choleric, and melancholic respectively). The balance of these humors in humans could be achieved through diet, medicines, and certain physical activities.

Historical Context

The Humoral theory was the most commonly held view among ancient physicians and remained a dominant medical paradigm for over 2,000 years. It was developed by Hippocrates, and later expanded and developed by Galen. It was eventually displaced by modern medical science in the 19th century.

Related Terms

• Hippocrates
• Galen
• Sanguine
• Phlegmatic
• Choleric
• Melancholic
• Bile
• Blood
• Phlegm
• Black bile

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Humoral theory
• Wikipedia's article - Humoral theory

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