Fecal microbiota transplantation is today considered a cutting-edge procedure, but as scientists have discovered, the idea of using feces for medical purposes did not originate in the 21st century. About this report sciencealert.com.
Archaeologists in Türkiye have discovered a 1,900-year-old glass jar containing chemical traces of human feces – direct evidence that feces were used as medicine and even cosmetics in ancient Rome.
Roman physicians, including the famous Galen, actively recommended feces to treat inflammation and infection. In his writings, Galen mentioned “fecal medicine” about 20 times, with particular emphasis on children's stools.
Modern science confirms that fecal microbiota transplantation is indeed effective in curing irritable bowel syndrome and a number of other diseases. Although the effects are often temporary and the procedure carries risks, studies in mice show that it can literally rejuvenate the intestines.
So what today causes skepticism among some of the public, two thousand years ago was a completely respected medical practice.
