Medicine in the medieval Islamic world

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Medicine in the Medieval Islamic World

Medicine in the Medieval Islamic World (Pronunciation: /ˈmɛdɪsɪn ɪn ðə ˈmiːdiːvəl ɪslɑːmɪk wɜːrld/), refers to the extensive medical knowledge and practices developed in the Islamic Golden Age, which spanned from the 8th to the 14th centuries. The etymology of the term is derived from the Latin "medicina", meaning "the healing art".

Background

During the Islamic Golden Age, advancements in Medicine were made through the translation of Greek, Indian, and Persian medical texts. This led to the development of a unique and comprehensive system of healthcare that was widely practiced across the Islamic world.

Key Figures

Prominent figures in the field of medicine during this period include Avicenna, Al-Razi, and Ibn al-Nafis. Their works, such as Avicenna's The Canon of Medicine, Al-Razi's Kitab al-Hawi, and Ibn al-Nafis' commentary on the Canon, played a significant role in shaping medical practice not only in the Islamic world but also in Europe.

Medical Practices

Medical practices during this period were based on the Humoral theory, which was a system of medicine detailing the makeup and workings of the human body, adopted by Ancient Greek and Roman physicians and philosophers. However, Islamic physicians also made significant contributions to various fields of medicine, including ophthalmology, surgery, pharmacy, and anatomy.

Hospitals

The establishment of hospitals, known as Bimaristan, was another significant development during this period. These institutions provided care for the sick and injured, regardless of their financial status, and also served as centers for medical education and research.

Legacy

The legacy of medicine in the medieval Islamic world is vast. Many medical practices and procedures developed during this period are still in use today. Furthermore, the works of Islamic physicians have had a profound influence on the development of Western medicine.

External links

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