The Science and Art of Medicine
On Display
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
A painted plaster statue of Dhanvantari, the Hindu god of medicine. Dhanvantari is said to have revealed the secrets of Ayurveda, and here he is shown carrying the elixir of life in a white container. Today, Ayurvedic doctors and their patients belon
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 modern plastic model showing acupuncture points in the ear. In early 1950s France, Dr Paul Nogier developed a detailed map of acupuncture points in the ear. Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners all over the world quickly adopted it.
A vial containing pills of homoeopathic remedy Silicea 200 K. Homeopathy is practised widely in India, and the support of India’s political and spiritual leader Mahatma Gandhi helped homeopathy gain more acceptance. Today it is recognised as a medica
A modern homeopathic 'travel kit' with ten different homeopathic pills and a box of Calendula antiseptic cream. Many people treat themselves using homeopathic remedies. This travel first-aid kit comes with instructions for treating common problems su
A string of prayer flags from the Nepalese village of Kunde. Flags are attached to the roofs of buildings to bring good luck and good health. They are changed at least twice a year - usually in the spring and autumn. The new flags offer fresh prayers
A wooden sign painted with a demon's face, hung over doors in China to scare away demons. In ancient China people believed that spirits, ancestors and demons could interfere with the body and cause illness. This idea has existed in some form in Chine
A Japanese ivory figure of a man massaging the back of another man whilst he reads. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, massage helps the qi energy flow in channels around the body.