The Capacity of Cleansing Drugs

Galen. Claudii Galeni Opera Omnia, Volume 11. Kühn, Karl Gottlob, editor. Leipzig: Knobloch, 1826.

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This work is a medical treatise in which the ancient physician Galen demonstrates that cleansing drugs possess the specific capacity to attract and extract particular humors, while vigorously criticizing opposing medical sects. Galen begins by introducing the theories of the Asclepiadeans and Erasistrateans, who denied this attractive power and claimed instead that purgatives merely alter humors or evacuate them indiscriminately. He then substantiates his own position by presenting clinical observations of patients with jaundice or dropsy, highlighting the stark contrast between the effects of venesection and those of purging drugs. Furthermore, he refutes the sophists' claims that all humors are drawn out indiscriminately, pointing out their logical self-contradictions and using anecdotes about toxic substances. Finally, appealing to common sense and his own extensive clinical success, Galen soundly rejects the ignorance of contemporary physicians who dismiss Hippocratic teachings, solidifying the validity of his own doctrine.