History of herbalism
History of Herbalism
Herbalism (pronunciation: /ˈhɜːrbəlɪzəm/), also known as phytotherapy, is the study of botany and use of plants intended for medicinal purposes or for supplementing a diet. The practice of herbalism has a long history, dating back to ancient times.
Etymology
The term "herbalism" is derived from the old French "herbe" meaning grass or herb, and the suffix "-ism" which denotes a practice or system. The term "phytotherapy" comes from the Greek words "phyto-" meaning plant and "therapy" meaning treatment.
Ancient Herbalism
The use of plants for medicinal purposes has been traced back to the Paleolithic age, approximately 60,000 years ago. Evidence of this can be found in burial sites where plants with known medicinal properties were found alongside human remains.
In Ancient Egypt, herbs were used in the treatment of various ailments. The Ebers Papyrus, dating back to 1550 BC, is one of the oldest known medical texts and contains information on over 850 plant medicines.
Herbalism in the Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, herbalism was a common practice in monasteries. Monks would grow and study herbs, creating remedies for the local community. The Herbarium of Apuleius, a 5th-century herbal, was widely used during this period.
Modern Herbalism
In the 19th and 20th centuries, the practice of herbalism became more structured and scientific. The Pharmacopoeia, a book containing directions for the identification of compound medicines, began to include herbal medicines.
Today, herbalism is a thriving field, with many people turning to natural remedies for health and wellness. However, it's important to note that while some herbs have proven health benefits, others can be harmful if used improperly.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on History of herbalism
- Wikipedia's article - History of herbalism
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