Antimonial cup

Antimonial cup is a type of drinking vessel used historically in the practice of medicine for its purported health benefits. These cups were made from an alloy consisting primarily of antimony, a metallic element. When wine or other acidic beverages were stored or left to stand in these cups, the liquid would leach antimony particles from the cup. The resulting solution was then consumed for its supposed therapeutic effects.

History

The use of antimonial cups dates back to the Middle Ages, with their popularity peaking in the 15th and 16th centuries. They were based on the ancient practice of using antimony, which was known to the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for its medicinal properties. The theory behind the antimonial cup was rooted in the medical practices of the time, which often incorporated elements of alchemy. Practitioners believed that antimony could purify the body and cure a range of ailments, from digestive issues to infectious diseases.

Medical Use

The medical rationale for the use of antimonial cups was tied to the theory of humors, a foundational concept in pre-modern medicine that posited health was maintained by balancing four bodily fluids. Antimony, being a purgative, was thought to help balance these humors by inducing vomiting or purging when ingested in small quantities. Despite the toxic nature of antimony, it was used in various forms, including powders and pills, in addition to its use in antimonial cups.

Risks and Discontinuation

The practice of using antimonial cups declined as the understanding of chemistry and toxicology advanced. By the 19th century, the medical community recognized the dangers of antimony poisoning, which can include symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal distress to more severe effects such as cardiac problems and death. The development of more effective and safer medical treatments also contributed to the discontinuation of antimonial cups in medical practice.

Legacy

Today, antimonial cups are of interest primarily to historians and collectors of medical antiques. They serve as a reminder of the evolving nature of medical practices and the journey towards our current understanding of health and medicine.

See Also

• Medical history
• Toxicology
• Alchemy in the history of medicine
• Therapeutic purging