History Extra podcast How medicine became a moneymaker
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Jan 30, 2025 Karen Bloom Gevirtz, author of "The Apothecary's Wife," reveals the complex journey of medicine from homegrown remedies to a commercial industry. She discusses the often-overlooked roles of women in traditional medicine and the reliability of folk cures. The conversation also touches on the commercialization of vital treatments like insulin, highlighting the ethical dilemmas posed by profit motives in healthcare. Additionally, she shares fascinating anecdotes, including the curious history of viper wine and its cultural significance.
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Challenging the Traditional Medical Narrative
- The traditional "triumph of modern medicine" narrative is a myth perpetuated by proponents of the scientific revolution.
- This narrative falsely portrays a transition from ignorant, female-dominated folk medicine to enlightened, male-led scientific medicine.
The Real Shift in Medicine
- Early modern physicians didn't invent new medicines; they used the same ones as traditional healers.
- The real change was the shift from free, trusted home remedies to paid, commercial medicine from strangers.
Domestic Medicine
- Before commercial medicine, people relied on women in their families or communities for healthcare.
- These women used readily available plants and time-tested recipes, prioritizing practical results over theory.
