Medieval & Early Renaissance Medicine

Nancy G. Siraisi

Medieval & Early Renaissance Medicine

An Introduction to Knowledge and Practice 

 

Medieval Medicine

The author covers the period from the middle of 12^th to 15^th century in the history of medicine. The subject is the practitioners of literate and technical medicine in Europe. Author names three aspects of medicine in this period that has significance for its history.

First aspect is about the role of medicine in the history of science and technology in Western Europe of that period. Greek science transformed the perception of physical universe by medieval doctors. Especial significance have Ptolemaic and Aristotelian theories. In noticed period of time Greek medicine achieved high level of knowledge. Greek medicine development had influenced the process of shaping ideas of human body, animal and plant kingdoms in Medieval and Renaissance times.

The second aspect, covered in the book, is about social and cultural patterns in medicine. Medicine is an occupation, that combines high culture and technical progress within one discipline. In complex society of Middle ages, men and women, clergy and laity, scholastics and herbalists could work as medical practitioners. Despite the great number of medieval beliefs and doctrines in medicine of that time, scientists believe that the fundamental assumptions about human body, its illness and wellness were made in that period.

The third aspect connected to the higher medical education of that time, its institutional, social and intellectual characteristics. In 16th century the creation of new anatomy and physiology takes place; famous contributors are Vesalius and Harvey.

These three aspects are not only interesting things in this book. Author’s aim was not to cover all aspects of medicine in Middle Ages and Renaissance, but to present the most important moments of medicine science history.

Discover the world of 12-16 centuries medical science, first practitioners, their beliefs and theories.  

Coping with Erectile Dysfunction, by Barry McCarthy and Michael Metz

You don't have to cope with ED alone!

The number of so-called authoritative explanations of erectile dysfunction and its causes seems endless, as well as a number of guaranteed easy ways of treatment.
After Viagra appeared in the market a revolution in the field made people believe that ED can be treated simply with one pill.
However, the truth is not so sweet. Erectile dysfunction is a complex problem that has different roots – physical, psychological and interpersonal (hard relationships between man and woman).
The book is a unique combination of different methods to deal with the problem. It combines biological, psychological and social approaches. A reader will find an effective and proved program to treat erectile dysfunction. Besides, there are some useful advices on how to build strong and intimate relationships and enjoy a good sex.
Within the book, you will find:

• Myths and facts about ED and medications (like Viagra, Cialis, Levitra).
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An outstanding example of self-help book with principles of cognitive behavioral therapy. The book can be used in combination with therapy or alone- in any case it is a perfect tool a reader can use to change his life.

An Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry, G. Patrick, Oxford.

A perfect text for university courses on the pharmacology is An Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry, by G. Patrick. It is a complete coverage of the subject with accessible and engaging style of writing, equally appreciated by students and lecturers.

The opening chapters devoted to biochemistry, which is essential to understand the medicinal chemistry basics. Structure and functions of important drugs also covered.

The next thing the author is talking about is interaction of drugs, their interaction with body, reactions and consequences.

A second part of the text devoted to principles and general strategies used to discover and design new forms of drugs.

The end of the book covers specific topics related to medicinal chemistry, like cholinergics and anticholinesterases, etc.

Medicinal Chemistry is a fascinating subject with great potential and the author demonstrates it in his book. The special language of the book is easy to read with the help of glossary.

Special text boxes contain in-depth material. Book describes how concepts applied in real life. In the end of every chapter you will find a section with summary and key points, plus a revision. A section with questions can be find at the end of the chapter, along with the link to Online Resource Centre. All in complex, it helps readers to test their understanding and to improve their skills in molecular modelling.