The Fascinating Medical Practices of the Elizabethan Era
Nestled between the Tudor period and the Stuart era, the Elizabethan era is a significant period in the history of England. Queen Elizabeth I reigned for 44 years during this period and during her reign, many advancements in art, architecture, and literature were made. However, medical practices during the Elizabethan era were primitive in comparison to present-day medical practices. In this article, we will explore the fascinating medical practices of the Elizabethan era.
Medical Knowledge During the Elizabethan Era
During the Elizabethan era, medical knowledge was quite basic. The doctors of this time believed in humorism – an ancient medical concept. They believed that the human body was made up of four different humors – blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. If there was an imbalance in these humors, individuals would become ill. It was the doctors’ responsibility to restore the balance of humors in an individual’s body.
Herbs and Medicinals
Herbs and medicinals were critical to medical practices during the Elizabethan era. At the time, it was believed that herbs and medicinals could restore the imbalance of humors in one’s body, and the doctors would prescribe them to their patients. For instance, borage was a popular herb used to boost people’s courage, while chamomile was used to soothe anxiety. The doctors of the time also used opium, mercury, and arsenic to treat different ailments.
Medical Tools and Techniques
Medical tools during the Elizabethan era were quite crude. Surgeons used saws, knives, and scissors to perform surgery and were known to use chains to restrain their patients during the procedure. There were no anesthetics or antiseptics during this time, and surgery was a painful and dangerous procedure. However, surgeons did wear gloves during surgery and used boiling water to sterilize their instruments.
Medical Practitioners
During the Elizabethan era, there were no standardized medical schools, and medical practitioners had a variety of backgrounds. Some were trained as apprentices while others did not receive any formal training. Barbers and surgeons were often the same individuals, and anyone could market themselves as a doctor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the medical practices of the Elizabethan era were primitive compared to modern-day medical practices. However, the doctors of this time did the best they could with the limited resources and knowledge they had. Exploring these medical practices can help us appreciate the advancements made in medicine over time. Although Queen Elizabeth I is remembered as one of the greatest monarchs in English history, the medical practices of her era were anything but great.
