Galen of Pergamum: A Pioneer in Bloodletting
Galen of Pergamum, an esteemed Greek physician who practiced during the ancient Roman era, played a crucial role in popularizing the concept of bloodletting. Galen firmly believed that blood was the most influential of all bodily humors. Additionally, he made a groundbreaking discovery that arteries carry blood, contrary to the ancient belief that they transported air. Galen’s extensive writings on blood circulation and bloodletting greatly contributed to the establishment and perpetuation of this medical practice for numerous centuries.
The Influence of Astrology on Bloodletting
In the Middle Ages, the practice of bloodletting expanded and became regulated in various regions. Medical professionals from different religious backgrounds, including Jews, Christians, and Muslims, embraced the belief that certain days were more auspicious for bloodletting, aligning with specific planets or zodiac signs. As medical knowledge and practices were shared across different cultures in Europe, bloodletting gained even wider popularity.