Medical cannibalism

Medical Cannibalism

Medical cannibalism (pronunciation: /ˈmɛdɪkəl/ /ˌkænɪˈbælɪzəm/) is a historical practice that involved the use of human body parts, fluids, and bones for medicinal purposes. The etymology of the term comes from the words "medical", derived from the Latin medicus meaning "pertaining to physicians", and "cannibalism", derived from the Spanish canibal referring to the practice of eating human flesh.

History

Medical cannibalism has been practiced in various cultures throughout history. In Europe, it was particularly prevalent during the Renaissance period, where it was believed that human remains could cure various ailments. This practice was not limited to the lower classes, but was also common among the elite and educated classes.

Types of Medical Cannibalism

There were several types of medical cannibalism, including the consumption of human blood, fat, bone, and even mummy powder, which was made from the ground-up remains of Egyptian mummies.

Blood

The consumption of human blood was believed to cure ailments such as epilepsy and other neurological disorders. It was often taken from those who had recently died, or even directly from the executioner's block.

Fat

Human fat was used in ointments and balms, and was believed to have healing properties. It was often used to treat wounds, burns, and other skin conditions.

Bone

Powdered human bone, also known as "mummy powder", was used as a treatment for various ailments. It was often mixed with other substances and consumed as a drink.

Decline

The practice of medical cannibalism began to decline in the 18th century, as advances in medical science led to the development of more effective treatments. However, it was not completely eradicated until the 19th century.

Related Terms

• Corpse medicine
• Mummy powder
• Cannibalism
• Medicine in the Renaissance

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Medical cannibalism
• Wikipedia's article - Medical cannibalism

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