History of Pharmacy - Chapter 1 - Ancient Era PDF

HISTORY OF PHARMACY Chapter 1: History of Pharmacy Dr. Rana Sammour  The history of pharmacy consists of the knowledge of the past of pharmacy in order to better prepare the future. It puts to...

HISTORY OF PHARMACY Chapter 1: History of Pharmacy Dr. Rana Sammour  The history of pharmacy consists of the knowledge of the past of pharmacy in order to better prepare the future. It puts together the study of the evolution of medicines and the men, discovering, making, controlling and distributing those medicines, as well as the patients to History of Pharmacy whom it is handed out. The history of pharmacy is closely related to the history of medicine, as well as to the history of chemistry, botany, natural sciences, physiology and hygiene etc.  History of Pharmacy The considered period is very extended as it runs from the Neanderthal man, chewing his purgative leaves, up to the present times, with its genetic and cellular therapy. The relationships between patients, medicines and society were influenced by religions, climate, nature of the drugs found in the region and also by discoveries made by individuals. Pharmacy was, of course, influenced by the philosophical diversity between the various populations. Five Historical Periods Ancient Era: The beginning of time to 1600 AD Empiric Era: 1600 to 1940 Industrialization Era: 1940 to 1970 Patient Care Era: 1970 to present Biotechnology and genetic engineering: The new horizon 4 1. ANCIENT ERA 1. The Ancient Era Leaves, mud, and cool water were used to stop bleeding and heal wounds. Early man learned from watching injured animals’ behaviors. Knowledge of materials with healing properties was passed down through the tribes. Medical information was documented on clay tablets around 2600 BC. 6 a. Mesopotamian civilization ‫حضارة مابين النهرين‬ It is a historical region of Western Asia situated within the Tigris–Euphrates river system. In modern days roughly corresponding to most of Iraq, Kuwait, Syria and Turkey. Mesopotamia housed historically important cities such as Uruk, Nippur, Nineveh, Assur and Babylon. Our knowledge of the medicine of the Babylonians and Assyrians is derived almost exclusively from the great library of clay tablets gathered in the palace of King Ashurbanipal of Assyria, who ruled from 668 to 626 B.C.  Medicine in Mesopotamian civilization, which thrived in the region of present-day Iraq and parts of Syria, Iran, and Turkey from around 3500 BCE to 500 BCE, was an a. Mesopotamian important aspect of their culture. civilization The Mesopotamians had a deep interest in healthcare and developed a system of medicine that combined practical observations with religious beliefs.  a. Mesopotamian civilization ▪ Supernatural Beliefs: Mesopotamians believed that illnesses were caused by supernatural forces, such as demons, evil spirits, or the displeasure of gods. Consequently, they sought both physical and spiritual cures. Treatments often involved rituals, prayers, and offerings to appease the gods. ▪ Medical Practitioners: The medical profession in Mesopotamia was divided into different roles. The "Asu" was the physician who diagnosed illnesses, prescribed treatments, and performed basic surgeries. The "Asipu" was the exorcist-priest who dealt with supernatural causes of illness. ▪ Diagnostic Practices: Mesopotamian physicians relied on observations and physical examinations to diagnose illnesses. They paid attention to various symptoms, including fever, discharges, pain, and changes in bodily functions. Urine examination was a common diagnostic method, and they believed it provided insights into the body's condition.  a. Mesopotamian civilization ▪ Medications and Treatments: Mesopotamian medical treatments involved a combination of practical and supernatural elements. They used herbal remedies, including plants like licorice, opium, and myrrh. They also employed mineral substances like lead and copper for certain conditions. Incantations, amulets, and magical rituals were often used alongside physical treatments. ▪ Surgical Procedures: Mesopotamian surgeons performed various surgical procedures. They conducted basic surgeries like wound stitching, bone-setting, and abscess drainage. However, due to the limited understanding of anatomy, more complex surgeries were rare. Amulets  a. Mesopotamian civilization ▪ Medical Texts: The Mesopotamians recorded medical knowledge on clay tablets. The most famous compilation of medical texts is the "Diagnostic Handbook" known as "Enuma Anu Enlil," which listed symptoms and corresponding treatments for various diseases. ▪ Advancements: Mesopotamian medicine made notable advancements, such as developing a system of prognosis based on the examination of signs and symptoms. They also classified diseases into Enuma Anu Enlil acute and chronic categories and recognized certain medical conditions like epilepsy and mental disorders. Assyrian medicine Drugs: 250 vegetable drugs (styrax, thyme, crocus, cannabis, opium, myrrh, etc. 120 mineral drugs. alcoholic bevereges, fats, oils, honay, wax, various milks. Forms of prepared drugs for administration: wines, mixtures, ointments, plasters, lotions, infusions, decoctions, etc. b. Egyptian civilizations Medicine played a significant role in ancient Egyptian civilization. The ancient Egyptians had a complex understanding of medicine and healing practices that were influenced by both practical observations and religious beliefs. 13  b. Egyptian civilizations ▪ Healing Temples: Temples dedicated to healing, such as the Temple of Amenhotep in Karnak, were an integral part of the healthcare system. These temples were believed to be the dwelling places of deities associated with healing, and people would come seeking godly intervention for their diseases. Magical spells and rituals were performed alongside medical treatments to appease the gods and seek their intervention for healing. ▪ Diagnostic Techniques: Ancient Egyptian physicians used various diagnostic techniques, including observation, palpation, and questioning the patient about their symptoms. They believed that diseases could have both natural and supernatural causes, so Temple of Amenhotep in Karnak they looked for physical and spiritual explanations.  b. Egyptian civilizations ▪ Herbal Remedies: The Egyptians extensively used herbal remedies for treating ailments. They had a vast knowledge of medicinal plants and their properties. Some common medicinal plants included aloe vera, garlic, frankincense, myrrh, and juniper. These herbs were used for treating a wide range of conditions, from digestive issues to skin ailments. ▪ Surgery and Physical Treatments: Ancient Egyptian physicians were skilled in performing surgeries and physical treatments. They performed procedures like setting broken bones, treating wounds, and even basic brain surgeries. They also used techniques like massage, fumigation, and bandaging to aid in the healing process.  b. Egyptian civilizations Medical Papyri: Several medical papyri from ancient Egypt have been discovered, providing valuable insights into their medical practices. The most famous of these is the Edwin Smith Papyrus, which contains detailed descriptions of surgical cases, including examinations, diagnoses, and treatments. Among the oldest and most important medical papyri of ancient Egypt c. The Greeks and Romans civilizations The Greeks and Romans made significant contributions to the field of medicine during their respective civilizations. Here are some aspects of medicine in ancient Greece and Rome: Ancient Greece: ▪ Hippocratic School: The Greeks established the Hippocratic School of medicine, named after the renowned physician Hippocrates. It emphasized observation, clinical experience, and ethical principles in the practice of medicine. ▪ The Hippocratic Corpus, a collection of medical texts attributed to Hippocrates, outlined various diseases, their symptoms, and treatments. c. The Greeks and Romans civilizations Humoral Theory: The Greeks believed in the humoral theory, which suggested that the body's health was determined by the balance of four bodily fluids or humors: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. Imbalances were thought to cause diseases, and treatments aimed to restore balance. c. The Greeks and Romans civilizations Anatomy and Physiology: Greek physicians such as Galen made significant strides in understanding anatomy and physiology. While they were limited by the lack of dissection on human bodies, they conducted anatomical studies on animals and developed a fairly accurate understanding of various organs and bodily systems. c. The Greeks and Romans civilizations Ancient Rome: ▪ Sanitation and Public Health: The Romans focused on public health measures and sanitation to prevent the spread of diseases. They built aqueducts, sewers, and public baths, which not only provided clean water but also promoted hygiene and cleanliness. ▪ Surgical Techniques: Roman physicians, including Galen, made advancements in surgical techniques. They performed surgeries, such as the removal of tumors and cataracts, and developed various instruments, including forceps and scalpels.  c. The Greeks and Romans civilizations Medical Treatments: Roman medicine incorporated a combination of Greek, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern medical knowledge. They used herbs, minerals, and other natural substances in their remedies. Roman physicians also prescribed lifestyle modifications, exercise, and diet as part of the treatment process. The Roman medical system saw the establishment of the first hospitals; these were reserved for slaves and soldiers, physicians were assigned to follow armies or ships, tending to the injured. Medical care for the poor was almost non- existent, so the poor had to resort to spiritual aid. c. The Greeks and Romans civilizations A variety of surgical instruments are known from archaeology and Roman medical literature, including: Rectal speculum: An instrument mentioned by Hippocrates, which allowed physicians to examine the rectal cavity of a patient. Bone levers: A tool used to leverage bones back into their proper place in a limb. Cupping vessels: Containers used for bloodletting. Vessels of different sizes were used depending on how much blood was expected. c. The Greeks and Romans civilizations Tubes: After surgery, a bronze or lead tube would be inserted into the patient to prevent adhesion or contractions. Tile cautery: A physician's "bread and butter" tool. This instrument was used for several purposes, such as stopping bleeding, cutting flesh or removing growths. d. The Indian civilizations Medicine in Indian civilizations has a long and diverse history, with several ancient systems of medicine originating from the region. ▪ Ayurveda: Ayurveda, meaning "science of life," is one of the world's oldest systems of medicine. It originated in ancient India and has been practiced for over 5,000 years. ▪ Ayurvedic medicine focuses on achieving balance and harmony between the body, mind, and spirit. ▪ It recognizes that each individual is unique and emphasizes personalized treatments, including herbal remedies, dietary guidelines, lifestyle modifications, yoga, meditation, and various therapies. ▪ Ayurveda classifies diseases into different types and considers factors such as diet, lifestyle, emotions, and environmental influences in diagnosing and treating illnesses. It emphasizes prevention and maintaining overall well-being rather than just treating specific symptoms. d. The Indian civilizations ▪ Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita: These ancient texts are important pillars of Ayurvedic medicine. The Charaka Samhita focuses on general medicine and covers various aspects of diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures. The Sushruta Samhita primarily deals with surgical techniques, including procedures for plastic surgery, ophthalmology, obstetrics, and more. These texts provide detailed descriptions of anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology. d. The Indian civilizations ▪ Unani Medicine: Unani medicine, also known as Yunani medicine, is another ancient system of medicine that flourished in the Indian subcontinent. It is based on the teachings of Greek physicians, primarily Hippocrates and Galen, but also incorporates elements from Ayurveda and other traditional healing systems. Unani medicine emphasizes the balance of four humors (blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile) and uses herbal medicines, dietary interventions, and therapies like cupping and massage for treatment. d. The Indian civilizations Siddha Medicine: Siddha medicine is a traditional medical system that originated in ancient Tamil Nadu in South India. It is believed to have been developed by Siddhars, enlightened beings who attained spiritual and medicinal knowledge. Siddha medicine utilizes herbs, minerals, and metals to prepare medicines and focuses on achieving balance among the three humors—vatham, pitham, and kabam. It also incorporates practices like yoga and meditation.  e. Islamic civilizations Medicine played a significant role during the Islamic civilizations, particularly between the 8th and 14th centuries. Islamic medicine built upon the knowledge of ancient civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Persians, and Indians. It also incorporated Islamic religious beliefs and teachings. Preservation and Translation of Medical Texts: Islamic scholars played a crucial role in preserving and translating ancient medical texts from Greek, Roman, Persian, and Indian sources. These texts were translated into Arabic and expanded upon, making them more accessible to scholars in the Islamic world. Medical Schools and Institutions: The Islamic world witnessed the establishment of renowned medical schools and institutions. One of the most famous was the Bayt al-Hikmah (House of Wisdom) in Baghdad, founded during the Abbasid Caliphate. These institutions served as centers for medical education, research, and the compilation of medical knowledge. Bayt al-Hikmah 28 e. Islamic civilizations ▪ Development of Hospitals: Islamic civilization saw the emergence of hospitals as specialized institutions for medical care. These hospitals provided treatment to patients, regardless of their social status or financial means. They were staffed with trained physicians and offered a wide range of medical services. ▪ Medical Treatises and Encyclopedias: Islamic physicians wrote numerous medical treatises and encyclopedias, compiling medical knowledge and advancements of the time. One of the most influential works was the "Canon of Medicine" by Ibn Sina (Avicenna), which became a standard medical textbook in Europe for centuries. Canon of Medicine  e. Islamic civilizations ▪ Contributions to Medical Knowledge: Islamic physicians made significant contributions to various fields of medicine. They conducted extensive research, made advancements in anatomy, pharmacology, surgery, ophthalmology, and developed innovative surgical instruments. They also made progress in understanding contagious diseases and the importance of sanitation.  e. Islamic civilizations ▪ Herbal Medicine and Pharmacology: Islamic physicians extensively studied herbal medicine and pharmacology. They collected and documented information about medicinal plants, their properties, and uses. This knowledge was later compiled in various pharmacopeias, such as the "Kitab al-Adwiya al-Mufrada" (Book of Simple Drugs) by Ibn al-Baitar. ▪ Influence of Islamic Philosophy and Ethics: Islamic medical practice was influenced by Islamic philosophy and ethics. The concept of holistic care, emphasizing the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of patients, was an essential aspect of Islamic medicine. Physicians were expected to display compassion, empathy, and ethical conduct in their practice. Kitab al-Adwiya al-Mufrada  f. The Italian Influence Italian civilizations have a rich history when it comes to medicine. The practice of medicine in Italy can be traced back to ancient times, with notable contributions from civilizations such as the Etruscans and the Romans. Ancient Etruscans: The Etruscans believed in a holistic approach to health and disease, focusing on maintaining a balance between the body and the environment. Etruscan physicians used various herbal remedies, incantations, and rituals to treat ailments. Ancient Romans: The Romans greatly influenced medicine in Italy and beyond. They adopted and expanded upon Greek medical knowledge and established a system of public healthcare. They built hospitals, known as valetudinaria, and employed physicians to care for the sick and wounded. 32 f. The Italian Influence ▪ Scientific Revolution: In the 17th and 18th centuries, Italy played a significant role in the scientific revolution and the development of modern medicine. Prominent Italian physicians and scientists, such as Marcello Malpighi and Giovanni Battista Morgagni, made groundbreaking contributions to anatomy and pathology. Italy became a leading center for medical education and research. ▪ The works of ancient Greek physicians like Hippocrates and Galen were studied and translated. Leonardo da Vinci, the renowned artist, was also an anatomist who made detailed anatomical drawings. The study of anatomy and dissection Leonardo Da Vinci's Scientific became more prevalent during this period. Studies, 500 Years Later  The Italian Influence ▪ The Magna Carta of Pharmacy: German emperor Frederick II issued an edict in about 1240 that legally separated pharmacy from medicine in southern Italy and Sicily. The edict contained three decrees: o The pharmaceutical profession was to be separated from the medical profession. o The pharmaceutical profession should be supervised officially. o pharmacists should take an oath to prepare drugs reliably, according to skilled art, and in a uniform suitable quality.