Nature Sofia-Doctrine of Signature

Abstract

The doctrine of signature is a philosophy known to mankind from times of Dioscodrides and Galen. This doctrine states that herbs that resemble various parts of the body can be used to treat ailments of that part of the body. It was reasoned that almighty must have set his sign upon the various means of curing disease which he provided. This concept is still reflected in the common names of some plants whose shapes and color reminded herbalists of the parts of the body where they seem to have some positive action. The concept was developed by Paracelsus (1491-1541) and published in his writings. During the first half of the 16th century, Paracelsus travelled throughout Europe and to the Levant and Egypt, treating people and experimenting with new plants in search of more treatment and solutions.