Galen: On the Natural Faculties by Galen
Chapter IX
275 words | Chapter 30
The _functions of organs_ also depend on the way in
which the four qualities are mixed--_e.g._ the
contracting function of the stomach. Treatment only
possible when we know the _causes_ of errors of
function. The Erasistrateans practically Empiricists in
this respect. On an appreciation of the meaning of a
_dyscrasia_ follows naturally the Hippocratic principle
of treating opposites by opposites (_e.g._ cooling the
over-heated stomach, warming it when chilled, etc.).
Useless in treatment to know merely the function of each
organ; we must know the _bodily condition_ which upsets
this function. Blood is warm and moist. Yellow bile is
warm and (virtually, though not apparently) dry. Phlegm
is cold and moist. The fourth possible combination (cold
and dry) is represented by _black bile_. For the
clearing out of this humour from the blood, Nature has
provided the spleen--an organ which, according to
Erasistratus, fulfils no purpose. Proof of the
importance of the spleen is the jaundice, toxaemia,
etc., occurring when it is diseased. Erasistratus's
failure to mention the views of leading authorities on
this organ shows the hopelessness of his position. The
Hippocratic view has now been demonstrated deductively
and inductively. The classical view as to the generation
of the humours. Normal and pathological forms of yellow
and black bile. Part played by the _innate heat_ in
their production. Other kinds of bile are merely
transition-stages between these extreme types. Abnormal
forms removed by liver and spleen respectively. Phlegm,
however, does not need a special excretory organ, as it
can undergo entire metabolism in the body.
Need for studying the works of the Ancients carefully,
in order to reach a proper understanding of this
subject.
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