Natural Explanations

Treatments in Medieval Britain

Some treatments in medieval Britain were based on natural theories and observation of the physical world rather than religious faith.

Medicine was dominated by the Four Humours Theory

• Hippocrates' Theory of Four Humours

  • Body composed of blood, phlegm, yellow bile, black bile

• Galen's Contribution

  • Diseases treated using opposites

The Miasma Theory blamed Bad Air for causing disease

• Origin and Concept

  • Bad air causes disease

• Influence in Medieval Britain

  • Popular theory until 1860s

Hippocrates and Galen were very Influential

• Impact of Their Work

  • Translated texts, considered absolute truth

• Continued Influence

  • Ideas taught for centuries, some still used today

Comment and Analysis

• Incorrect Theories

  • Four Humours and miasma

• Importance

  • Disease had a natural cause, empowering people to take action

By focusing on natural theories and observation, medieval treatments in Britain moved away from solely relying on religious faith, allowing for advancements in medical understanding.