AMBER IN MEDICINE HISTORY

Already famous Hippocrates (460-377 BC), considered father of medicine, in his works described some medicinal properties and methods of application of amber that were later on used by scientists until the middle ages.
In ancient Rome, amber was used as medicine and protection against different diseases. Roman peasant women wore amber medallions not only as adornments, but also as a remedy for swollen glands and sore throat.
Persian Scientist Ibn Sina (Avicenna) called amber a remedy for many diseases. It was believed by several eastern countries that amber smoke strengthens human spirit and gives courage.
In the middle ages amber beads were worn even for the treatment of jaundice. This yellow honey amber stone was thought of as magical and as force to absorb unhealthy yellowness of the skin and the weakness of the organism. Amber related terms were often used in the recipes and records of the alchemists of those times.
It can also be seen from legends and myths that Prussians and Samogitians also used amber in the manufacture of incenses. Lithuanian tribes in former times employed such incense to drive away evil spirits. The newly born babies were fumigated with this incense to help them grow faster. For the newly weds, it was a symbol of eternal happiness. For the ones heading to war, amber helped them return with victory in their hands.
Before World War I amber was being used as treatment for various diseases. An extract of amber and vodka was thought to increase sexual potency of men. In Lithuania and Russia nannies had to wear amber beads to protect themselves and babies from diseases.