Rapid Revision on the Theory of the Four Humors

Introduction

• The theory of the four humors is an ancient medical idea that was significant in the medieval period and beyond.
• Based on concepts from Greek philosophers, particularly Aristotle and Hippocrates.
• Hippocrates applied this theory for diagnosing illnesses and suggesting treatments.

The Four Humors

• Definition: The body is composed of four liquids or humors linked to the four elements and seasons.
• Humors:
  • Blood
  • Phlegm
  • Black bile
  • Yellow bile

Balancing Act

• Good health results from a balance of these humors.
• An imbalance leads to illness (too much or too little of a particular humor).
• The theory also links humors to personality traits and seasonal illnesses.

Seasonal Connections

• Example: Cold symptoms (shivers, phlegm) are common in winter/spring due to indoor gatherings.
• Ancient Greeks believed this was due to the body's attempt to rebalance humors, not environmental factors.

Treatment Examples

• Cold Symptoms:
  • Cause: Excess phlegm
  • Treatment: Extract phlegm (e.g., blowing nose, inhaling vapors)
• Rash and Fever:
  • Cause: Excess blood
  • Treatment: Bloodletting to restore balance
• Constipation:
  • Cause: Insufficient black bile
  • Treatment: Laxatives to induce diarrhea

Importance of the Theory

• Progress and Continuity:
  • Represents progress in ancient Greek medicine as a rational explanation for illness.
  • In medieval times, it shows continuity as the concept lasted for centuries despite being incorrect.
• Treatments like bleeding continued into the 19th century and were considered vital by some.

Conclusion

• The four humors: blood, black bile, yellow bile, and phlegm.
• Illness results from imbalances in these humors.
• Although incorrect, this theory was a rational approach to understanding illness and remained influential for centuries.