"Medieval Medicine Mysteries: Surprisingly Advanced Ancient Cures—Dare You Try Lizard Shampoo?"
Medieval Medicine: Surprisingly Sophisticated (and TikTok-Worthy?)
Contrary to the grim image of Dark Ages medicine, researchers reveal it was more advanced than we think—with remedies that mirror modern TikTok “health hacks.” From vinegar hair rinses to herbal potions, medieval treatments might make you rethink this era’s ingenuity.
Brave Choices for Beauty and Health
A fifth-century text suggests curing hair loss with fresh summer savory, salt, vinegar, and ash from a burnt green lizard mixed with oil. Though lizard shampoo isn’t advisable today, vinegar rinses remain a TikTok staple. Similarly, medieval soapwort-and-lard hand balms echo today’s natural skincare trends.
Caption: Medieval manuscripts reveal hair and skincare recipes that resonate with modern trends.
Science Meets Superstition
The Corpus of Early Medieval Latin Medicine, a project compiling hundreds of pre-11th-century texts, uncovers detailed health practices. People prioritized diet, hygiene, and even zodiac-based treatments. “They cared about smelling nice, clear skin, and strong nails—it’s not what you’d expect,” says Dr. Carine van Rhijn, a medieval historian.
Weirdest Treatments
- Headaches: Crushed peach stone mixed with rose oil (studies confirm rose oil’s migraine relief).
- Scabs: Honey and cheese poultice applied for seven days.
- Digestion: A “posca” drink of water, vinegar, and salt—similar to today’s apple cider vinegar trend.
Caption: Medieval “posca” recipes mirror TikTok’s apple cider vinegar craze.
Diet as Medicine
Seasonal eating was key. Lentils “make wind,” barley bread “cools,” and November’s advice? Swap wine for sex. “They aimed for bodily balance, not weight loss,” explains Dr. van Rhijn.
A Word of Caution
Historians stress these remedies aren’t endorsements. “We’re not pharmacists,” warns Dr. van Rhijn. Yet, their existence shows a quest for knowledge in the “Dark Ages.”
Caption: Medieval medicine blended observation with tradition, laying groundwork for future science.
Final Takeaway
While some cures seem bizarre, their principles—natural ingredients, diet, and holistic health—feel strikingly modern. Next time you see a TikTok trend, remember: the Middle Ages might have beat you to it.
