Literary Sources/Tradition: Healing

Encyclopedia of Mythical Creatures:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Media (Ancient Kingdom) and Magical Stones

In ancient Media (an ancient kingdom in modern-day Iran), certain stones, particularly black or green ones, were believed to possess healing properties. These stones were thought to cure blindness and gout when applied to the affected area with a compress of ewe’s milk. Such beliefs illustrate the intersection of folklore and traditional medicine in ancient … Read more

Encyclopedia of Mythical Creatures:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Medicine and Magic

Historically, in some cultures, medicine was intertwined with magic and superstition. In Persia, for example, the practice of medicine was often influenced by astrology and mystical incantations. Those who practiced what would be considered modern medicine, such as conducting chemical experiments, were sometimes viewed with suspicion and accused of sorcery or dealings with the Devil. … Read more