Hygeia

Hygeia is the ancient Greek goddess of health, cleanliness and hygiene. She is the daughter of the god of medicine, Asclepius, and Epione, the goddess of soothing of pain. She is also the sister of Panacea, the goddess of universal remedy, and other siblings associated with health and well-being.

Mythology

In Greek mythology, Hygeia is the goddess who personifies the prevention of sickness and the continuation of good health. Her name is the source of the word "hygiene". She was a very important goddess in the time of the outbreak of the plague in Athens.

Cult

Hygeia was the goddess of health in Greek mythology, and her cult was very popular in Athens and throughout the Greek world. She was often depicted with a snake, which was a symbol of medicine and healing, and a bowl for medicinal potions.

Legacy

The legacy of Hygeia continues in modern times, as her name is still associated with health and hygiene. The World Health Organization uses the Rod of Asclepius, a snake-entwined staff that was a symbol of Hygeia's father, as its emblem. The term "hygiene" is also derived from her name.

See also

• Asclepius
• Panacea
• Greek mythology
• Health
• Hygiene

References

Hygeia Resources
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