Medieval Medicine

Astrology in Medieval Medicine

In the medieval way of life, the worlds of the mystical and the practical often intertwined. One domain where this interplay was most evident was medicine.

Medieval medicine, though grounded in the tangible aspects of herbs and treatments, frequently looked to the stars for guidance, integrating astrological concepts into its fabric.

This article delves deep into the symbiotic relationship between medieval medicine and astrology, focusing on the humoral theory, timing treatments by the stars, and the role of talismans and amulets in healing.

The Humors, Temperament, and the Zodiac

Central to medieval medicine was the theory of the four humors. Originating from ancient Greece, particularly from the teachings of Hippocrates and Galen, this theory suggested that the human body was composed of four primary fluids or ‘humors’ – blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. Each humor was associated with specific qualities, elements, and even astrological signs, and the balance (or imbalance) of these humors determined an individual’s health and temperament.

The Four Humors and Their Correspondences

• Blood: Warm and moist. Linked to the element of Air and signs Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. A predominance led to a sanguine temperament, characterized by optimism, liveliness, and a social disposition.
• Phlegm: Cold and moist. Tied to the element of Water and signs Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. A dominance resulted in a phlegmatic temperament – calm, thoughtful, and often reserved.
• Yellow Bile: Warm and dry. Associated with the element of Fire and signs Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. Its abundance fostered a choleric temperament, manifesting as ambition, energy, and sometimes aggression.
• Black Bile: Cold and dry. Connected to the element of Earth and signs Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. An excess led to a melancholic disposition, marked by introspection, pensiveness, and occasional despondency.

Astrological Influences on Humoral Imbalances

Medieval physicians believed that planetary movements and phases could influence the balance of humors in the body. For instance, Mars, a fiery planet, might exacerbate yellow bile, leading to fevers or inflammatory conditions. Conversely, the cooling influence of the Moon might increase phlegmatic conditions, resulting in colds or lethargy.

Understanding these connections, doctors would often consult astrological charts to diagnose imbalances and prescribe remedies tailored to the patient’s unique astrological and humoral profile.

The scenarios described above are creative and dramatized accounts, but are based on practices that were common in medical astrology during the medieval period. Medical astrology was a genuine discipline, and its practitioners were often well-respected members of the medical community. The practice of using astrological charts to diagnose and treat illnesses was rooted in the humoral theory of medicine, which was the prevailing medical paradigm for centuries.

The details mentioned, such as the emphasis on balancing the four humors, the use of an astrolabe to calculate planetary positions, the casting of a natal chart, and the prescription of dietary adjustments and herbal remedies based on the astrological and humoral diagnosis, were indeed part of the medieval astrologer-physician’s toolkit.

Physicians like Hildegard of Bingen, Paracelsus, and even the polymath Avicenna integrated astrological knowledge into their medical practices. They would have considered the positions of the planets and the zodiac signs to understand the patient’s condition and to prescribe treatments.

However, the specific dialogue and the exact remedies would vary from one physician to another, and not all medical practitioners used astrology as part of their practice. Additionally, records of such consultations are limited, so while the essence of the described consultation is historically plausible, the exact narrative is a reconstructed account meant to illustrate how these practices might have been carried out.

Timing Medical Treatments by the Stars

Just as the timing of planting crops or embarking on journeys was influenced by the stars, so too was the administration of medical treatments. The belief was that certain astrological configurations were propitious for particular treatments, while others could be detrimental.

Planetary Hours and Days

The medieval world divided the day into 24 hours, assigning each hour to a specific planet. These ‘planetary hours’ were believed to carry the energy of their respective planets, making them auspicious times for related activities. For instance, surgeries might be scheduled during hours ruled by Mars, given its association with cutting and energy, whereas treatments for emotional ailments might be best undertaken during Venusian hours, leveraging the planet’s calming and harmonizing energies.

Lunar Phases and Medical Procedures

The Moon’s phases were especially influential in determining the timing of medical treatments. Many doctors believed that the waxing moon increased the flow of humors, making it an ideal time for purging or bloodletting, while the waning moon was seen as a time of contraction and retention, suitable for restorative and nourishing treatments.

Talismans, Amulets, and Astrological Remedies

Beyond herbs and physical treatments, medieval medicine often employed the metaphysical powers of talismans, amulets, and other astrological remedies. These objects, infused with astrological energy, were thought to offer protection, healing, and balance to their wearers.

The Crafting of Talismans

Talismans were typically created during specific astrological configurations to harness the desired planetary energies. An amulet designed for healing might be crafted during a favorable Venus or Jupiter alignment, drawing upon their benevolent and harmonizing qualities. The material, design, and even the inscriptions on the talisman were carefully chosen to resonate with its intended astrological influence.

Amulets for Protection

While talismans were primarily crafted for their positive, proactive energies, amulets were often designed as protective shields, warding off negative influences, be they disease, malevolent spirits, or harmful astrological configurations. They were frequently worn around the neck, providing a continuous barrier against potential harm.

Gemstone Remedies and Their Astrological Correspondences

Gemstones, with their natural vibrancy and energy, were another tool in the medieval doctor’s kit. Different stones were believed to resonate with different planets and signs. For example, the sun-bright amber might be used to strengthen the heart and lift spirits, resonating with the Sun’s vitality, while moonstone, with its ethereal sheen, might be prescribed for menstrual or emotional imbalances, aligning with the Moon’s watery, receptive energy.

In conclusion, astrology in medieval medicine was not a fringe or esoteric practice but a central pillar in the holistic approach to health and well-being. By understanding and harnessing the interplay between the heavens and the human body, medieval physicians sought to provide comprehensive care, addressing not only the physical but also the spiritual and cosmic dimensions of illness and healing.