Today, we know the ancient Greeks more than the stunning monuments that were left behind, their advanced political system and their colorful mythology. Even now, Hollywood and several fictional writers are still fascinated by the history of ancient Greece and their most dysfunctional family of gods. Films are still being made about the exploits of their heroes, their literature and dramas still affect us differently, and we still admire their philosophers for their wit, innovation and commitment to truth and understanding. But from all that we give to Ancient Greece, have we ever given them a loan for their medical achievements and contributions?
In fact, the symbol of the Greek god Eskulap, the Greek god of medicine, is found throughout the world as a symbol of medicine itself. The staff of Aesculapius, which, with the snake twisting around it, is a popular symbol of the medical profession. The presence of Aesculapius in Greek mythology shows that Daivy sees medicine not only as a science, but also as a more comprehensive and spiritual activity.
The greatest of all Greeks, and perhaps all ancient physicians, would undoubtedly be Hippocrates, to which the Hippocratic Oath still resorts. He is honored for the way he combined scientific thinking, careful observation, sincere care for his patients and high ethical standards. And besides these brilliant characteristics as a doctor, many admire him for the work he did on herbs. He described 236 of them, all of which he tested and found effective. He classified all foods and herbs associated with the following:
hot (including sweet grapes, mustard and watercress);
cold (including sour wine, vinegar and flax seeds);
wet (including hemp);
dry (including sage).
