What was found in the 1,900-year-old Roman vial discovered in Turkey?

The 1,900-year-old Roman vial discovered in western Turkey contained human faeces mixed with thyme.

What did the chemical analysis of the Roman vial reveal?

Chemical analysis confirmed the residue inside the Roman vial was human faeces with carvacrol, a compound found in thyme.

How do the contents of the Roman vial relate to ancient medicine?

The faeces and thyme mixture in the Roman vial matches medicinal formulations described by ancient Roman physicians like Galen for treating various ailments.

Home / Science / 1,900-Year-Old Roman Faeces Vial Holds Medical Secrets

1,900-Year-Old Roman Faeces Vial Holds Medical Secrets

31 Jan

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Summary

A 1,900-year-old Roman vial containing human faeces was found.
The faeces were mixed with thyme, matching ancient medicinal recipes.
Chemical analysis confirmed the vial's contents as human faeces and thyme.

1,900-Year-Old Roman Faeces Vial Holds Medical Secrets

Archaeologists in western Turkey have unearthed a 1,900-year-old Roman vial that offers direct chemical evidence of ancient medicinal use of human faeces. Discovered in a tomb near the ancient city of Pergamon, the vial, known as an anguenterium, contained dark brown fragments. Analysis revealed these fragments to be human faeces mixed with thyme, a herb commonly used in ancient remedies.

The mixture closely matches formulations described by Roman physicians like Galen, who pioneered Western pharmacology. Historical texts indicate such treatments were used for infections, inflammation, and reproductive issues. This finding underscores that these practices were not just theoretical but actively applied in real-life medical treatments, challenging modern perceptions of medicinal ingredients.