Lazare Rivière

French physician and medical author

Lazare Rivière

Lazare Rivière (1589 – 16 April 1655) was a prominent French physician and medical author known for his contributions to the field of medicine during the 17th century. He was a professor of medicine at the University of Montpellier, where he influenced many students and practitioners with his teachings and writings.

Early Life and Education

Lazare Rivière was born in 1589 in Montauban, France. He pursued his medical studies at the University of Montpellier, one of the leading medical schools of the time. Montpellier was renowned for its progressive approach to medical education, which emphasized empirical observation and the study of anatomy.

University of Montpellier Faculty of Medicine

Career

Rivière became a professor at the University of Montpellier, where he taught for many years. His lectures and writings were highly regarded, and he became known for his practical approach to medicine. Rivière's work was characterized by a synthesis of traditional Galenic medicine and the emerging new ideas of the Renaissance.

Contributions to Medicine

Rivière is best known for his comprehensive medical texts, which were widely used by students and practitioners. His most famous work, The Practice of Physick, was a compilation of medical knowledge that included treatments for various diseases and conditions. This work was translated into several languages and remained a standard reference for many years.

Pharmacology

Rivière was particularly interested in pharmacology and the use of medicinal plants and minerals in treatment. He advocated for the use of antimony and opium in certain medical conditions, which was a subject of much debate at the time.

Antimony

Opium pod

Botanical Medicine

Rivière also studied the medicinal properties of various plants, including the nightshade family, which includes several important medicinal species.

Nightshade

Diet and Nutrition

Rivière emphasized the importance of diet and nutrition in maintaining health. He recommended the moderate consumption of wine as part of a healthy diet, reflecting the common medical beliefs of his time.

Wine grapes

Legacy

Lazare Rivière's work had a lasting impact on the field of medicine. His writings continued to be used as educational resources long after his death. Rivière's approach to medicine, which combined traditional knowledge with new scientific discoveries, helped pave the way for future advancements in medical science.

Related Pages

• University of Montpellier
• Galenic medicine
• Pharmacology
• History of medicine