What did archaeologists discover about Roman medical treatments?

Archaeologists discovered physical evidence that ancient Romans used human feces in medical treatments, with residues found in a second-century glass bottle.

What was inside the ancient Roman glass bottle found by researchers?

The second-century glass bottle contained human feces, thyme, and olive oil, suggesting a medicinal preparation.

Does this discovery relate to modern medical practices?

Yes, the findings support the ancient knowledge of 'fecal transfer,' a practice similar to modern microbiota-based therapies for ailments like recurrent bacterial infections.

Home / Science / Roman Feces Remedy Found: Ancient Medical Breakthrough

Roman Feces Remedy Found: Ancient Medical Breakthrough

10 Feb

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Summary

Archaeologists found physical evidence of Romans using human feces medicinally.
A second-century glass bottle contained feces, thyme, and olive oil.
The find supports ancient texts describing fecal matter as potent medicine.

Roman Feces Remedy Found: Ancient Medical Breakthrough

Archaeological evidence unearthed in Turkey confirms that ancient Romans utilized human feces in medical treatments. Researchers discovered residues within a second-century glass bottle, identified as containing human feces, thyme, and olive oil. This artifact provides the first physical documentation of a practice previously described only in ancient Roman texts.

This finding aligns with historical accounts detailing the use of human and animal feces for a range of conditions, from infections to reproductive disorders. The thyme likely served to mask odors and offer antibacterial benefits, as no noticeable smell was detected upon opening the bottle.