Paracelsus (Renaissance medic)

Paracelsus, a Swiss physician and alchemist of the Renaissance, revolutionized medicine by emphasizing observation and experience over traditional texts. He believed diseases were linked to chemical imbalances and introduced the idea that specific substances could be used to treat ailments. Paracelsus is often regarded as the father of toxicology, asserting that "the dose makes the poison," meaning that any substance can be harmful in large amounts. His work laid the foundation for modern pharmacology, integrating chemistry with medicine, and he advocated for a more holistic approach to healing, considering the individual’s lifestyle and environment.