iatrochemistry
-what is it?
-who created it? (facts about him/her)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iatrochemistry
Iatrochemistry is a historical branch of chemistry that focused on the study of chemical processes and substances in relation to medicine and healthcare. It was prevalent during the 16th to the 18th century, bridging the gap between alchemy and modern chemistry. Iatrochemistry aimed to understand the chemical composition and properties of substances used in medical treatments.
The creation of iatrochemistry cannot be attributed to a single individual, as it was an evolving field that emerged from the contributions of several prominent scientists and physicians of the time. Some notable figures associated with the development of iatrochemistry include:
1. Paracelsus (1493-1541): A Swiss physician, alchemist, and philosopher, Paracelsus is considered one of the pioneers of iatrochemistry. He emphasized the importance of chemical experimentation and observation in medicine, challenging traditional medical practices and theories.
2. Johann Baptist van Helmont (1577-1644): A Flemish chemist and physician, Van Helmont made significant contributions to iatrochemistry by conducting numerous experiments and advancing the understanding of chemical medicine. He is often regarded as one of the key figures in the transition from alchemy to modern chemistry.
3. Daniel Sennert (1572-1637): A German physician and chemist, Sennert is known for his influential work on medical chemistry. He emphasized the application of chemical principles in understanding the actions and effects of medicinal substances in the human body.
These individuals and others contributed to the development of iatrochemistry by integrating chemical knowledge and experimental techniques into the field of medicine. Their work laid the foundation for the advancement of pharmaceutical chemistry and the understanding of chemical processes in relation to healthcare.