Archaeologists in Turkey have made a startling discovery, uncovering traces of human excrement within a 1,900-year-old glass vial originally used for perfumes or elixirs. This finding is believed to be the first physical evidence that the Romans utilised faeces medicinally, a practice previously known only from ancient texts.
Chemical Analysis Confirms Ancient Contents
Pharmacologist Ilker Demirbolat conducted a detailed chemical analysis on the contents of one vial, identifying human faeces mixed with thyme oil. The long-necked bottle, known as an unguentarium, was recovered from looters, making its exact excavation site uncertain. However, its design and historical context strongly suggest it originates from the region of Pergamon, an ancient city in Turkey's western Izmir province.
Historical Context and Significance
Pergamon was home to a renowned hospital and the famous ancient physician Galen, who documented the medicinal application of excrement to treat infections and inflammation. Archaeologist Cenker Atila, a specialist in ancient perfumes at Sivas Republic University, led the team examining hundreds of vials at Bergama Museum near Pergamon's ruins.
Atila remarked, "We found a medicine that has survived from ancient times to the present day. We discovered excrement while expecting perfume." This unexpected find underscores the advanced yet unconventional medical practices of the Roman era.
Medicinal Use and Practical Application
Demirbolat explained that Roman physicians acknowledged the revulsive nature of such medicines and recommended blending them with pleasant-smelling substances like thyme oil to mask the odour. This mixture highlights the Romans' pragmatic approach to healthcare, combining efficacy with patient comfort.
The discovery not only validates historical records but also offers a tangible link to ancient medical traditions, shedding light on the innovative and sometimes surprising methods used in early pharmacology.
