Asclepiades of Bithynia, the Father of Molecular Medicine

How do you pronounce, Asclepiades?

Who is Asclepiades of Bithynia?

Asclepiades of Bithynia (born in 124 BC in Prousias, Bythinia, [modern Bursa Turkey]) and—died 40 BC, Rome [Italy]) established Hellenic or Greek medicine in Rome. He was educated in medicine at the Medical School of the Museum in Alexandria and in Philosophy at Keepos (garden), which is an Epicurean school.

He received the names Philosophicus due to his knowledge of philosophy and Pharmacion for his knowledge of medicinal herbs. Antiochus of Ascalon said that Asclepiades is “second to none in the art of medicine and acquainted with philosophy too.”

He was the first physician who created a health and disease theory to what is known as molecular medicine.

What is Asclepiades of Bithynia known for?

1. Asclepiades was the first to separate diseases into acute and chronic illnesses.
2. He suggested the Molecular Theory of Disease. That is, the human body is made of molecules that are made up of atoms.  Dalton later proved that the atomic theory is correct. In the 20th century, it became known that all diseases have a molecular basis.
3. He favored mild therapeutic methods of a healthy diet, exposure to light (Vitamin D), hydrotherapy (bathing), massage, physical exercise, and wine. This is in addition to herbal medicines and surgery if needed.
4. He was the first physician to do an elective tracheostomy. (a surgical hole in the neck to allow breathing)
5. He advocated equal treatment of women because most diseases are seen in both genders.
6. Asclepiades advocated for the friendly treatment of psychiatric patients. He freed mental patients with mental disorders from detention in the dark and treated them using labor and music therapy in addition to a healthy diet and massages.
7. During his time, physicians were callous towards their patients. Asclepiades promoted that the feelings and comfort of patients should be considered, and they should be treated with speed, sympathy, caring, and friendliness. His motto is Cito, Tuto, Jucunde, meaning Swiftly, Safely, and Sweetly.

Asclepiades Medicine, LLC and this website

Asclepiades was chosen because there are many parallels between this website and the medical philosophies of Asclepiades.

In this regard, this website, drjessesantiano.com, is operating under ASCLEPIADES MEDICINE, LLC.

This website attempts to provide a different perspective on preventive medicine with much emphasis on intermittent fasting and exercise. The human body has amazing capabilities to mend itself. The current discoveries in biochemistry and genetics are covered for a better understanding of disease processes.

Drjessesantiano.com does not prohibit anybody from taking medications. However, it should be known that frequently, the expectations from drugs are far higher than what they can actually deliver. Ultimately, a healthy body is the one that treats itself.  

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References:

Wikipedia: Asclepiades of Bithynia

Images:

Asclepiades of Bithynia.  This is the only known bust of Asclepiades. It is located among other Epicureans in the Room of Philosophers at the Capitoline Museum in Rome, Italy Photo by Christos Yapijakis

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