[Poisons and antidotes according to Gunyetü'l Muhassilin and an 18th century Ottoman pamphlet].

Abstract

This study deals with the chapter on poisons (Sümum) of Gunyetü'l-Muhassilin, a translation, and a pamphlet on antidotes called Panzehir, by Ahmed Sani,one of the most prominent figures of the Ottoman physicians. As a foreword, the terminology related with the subject; and an introduction to the Islamic medical theory, the basis of the subject, is discussed. The main topics on poison are; protection against and treatment of poisons; being poisoned by the sting of insects, snakes etc. and diseases such as rabies, as a result of bites of animals and their treatment; treatment of poisoned suppuration; insecticide drugs and measures; and common drugs against all kinds of poisons. Immunization and nutrition with respect to being poisoned; and preventive measures against insects; and mineral and organic antidotes are also discussed. The classification of diseases and treatment are evaluated on the humoral theory basis. The treatment of insect poisoning is viewed from the perspective of its symptoms. The pamphlet named Panzehir is about a special antidote, the bezoar stone. This antidote is divided into two, of the mineral and the animal origin; and the uses of the bezoar are discussed.A vocabulary is added to help readers to understand the terminology.