Medical cannibalism

Medical cannibalism is the act of consuming the body parts, fluids, or ashes of the dead for medicinal purposes. This practice was prevalent in Europe from the Middle Ages until the early 18th century, and was based on the belief that the body parts of the deceased could cure various ailments.

History

The practice of medical cannibalism has a long history in Europe. It was particularly prevalent during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, when it was believed that the body parts, fluids, and ashes of the deceased could cure various ailments. This belief was based on the theory of sympathetic magic, which held that like cures like.

Practices

The most common form of medical cannibalism involved the consumption of mummy powder, which was made from the ground-up remains of Egyptian mummies. This powder was believed to have curative properties and was used to treat a variety of ailments, including epilepsy, ulcers, and gout.

Other practices included the consumption of human fat, which was used to treat wounds and burns, and the drinking of blood, which was believed to cure bleeding disorders.

Criticism and Decline

The practice of medical cannibalism began to decline in the 18th century, as the scientific method began to take hold and the efficacy of these treatments was called into question. Today, the practice is widely regarded as a form of pseudo-science and is generally considered to be a dark chapter in the history of medicine.

See Also

• History of medicine
• Cannibalism
• Sympathetic magic

References

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  Albarello jar labeled "MUMIA" from the 18th century
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  Mummy merchant by Félix Bonfils
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  Tang Wuzong
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  Albarelli jar labeled "Axung Hominis"