The Science and Art of Medicine
On Display
An enema syringe with a cloth carrying bag, purchased from India in 2005. An enema (vasthi) introduces fluid into the lower bowel via the anus. A single Ayurvedic treatment might involve several enemas using oils mixed with different medicinal herbs
A copper bowl with chains for suspension, known as a dhara chatti. It is used in Ayurvedic shirodhara therapy, where warm oil from a suspended pot is slowly poured onto the forehead. Usually prescribed for illnesses affecting the head, it is increas
A stainless steel nasal oil applicator, purchased in 2005. Medicinal oils are poured directly into the nose during panchakarma, an Ayurvedic therapy. This treatment specifically targets health problems of the head, such as migraine, eye complaints an
Elaborate posset pot, tin glazed earthenware, cherub and songbird motifs, English
Made from the wood and bark of the trees they pictured, the panel depicts a plant which is important in Japanese culture.
Albarello vase, Italian, from Rome or Deruta, 1641, polychrome maiolica, used for theriaca by the Jesuits
A box containing ampoules of Strophanthin, an extract from the Strophanthus plant, made by the Burroughs Wellcome & Co. Ripe seeds from Strophanthus gratus and kombé plants contain a chemical that works on the heart. In Europe it has been made into t
A container of Crategus vegetarian capsules, prepared at the Mohsin Institute, Leicester, in 2005. They contain a mixture of raw herbs prepared by a Hakim (Unani Tibb doctor) at the Institute. Hakims practising in Britain often work with traditional
A container of Trifola Ayurvedic paste, designed to help digestion. This classic Ayurvedic mixture is now also used by Unani Tibb practitioners. Unlike many Tibb preparations, it has a bitter taste and should be taken in the evening with warm water o
Walnut homeopathic medicine chest, with 34 glass bottles, all labelled, and accompanying treatise on homeopathic medicine, 2nd half of the 19th century