The Four Humors

The Four Humors were a foundational concept in Medieval medicine, originating from ancient Greek thought. They consisted of blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile, each linked to specific temperaments and physical conditions. A balance among these humors was believed to be essential for good health; an imbalance could lead to illness. Treatments often aimed to restore this harmony through methods like bloodletting or dietary changes. This theory influenced medical practices and philosophies for centuries, shaping how people understood health, disease, and the body in medieval society.