What were the Sumerian achievements in the field of medicine?

The Sumerians, who lived in Mesopotamia between the 4th and 3rd millennium BCE, were pioneers in various fields, including the field of medicine. Although their methods and beliefs may seem primitive by modern standards, they made significant contributions that laid the foundation for medical practices that followed.

One of the most significant Sumerian achievements in medicine was the development of a system to diagnose and treat diseases. They believed that diseases were caused by evil spirits, but they also believed that the body had the ability to heal itself. Sumerian physicians used various methods to diagnose and treat diseases, such as examining the patient's urine and feces, and observing the symptoms of the disease. They also used herbs and plants to make medicines that were effective in treating a variety of ailments.

Sumerians were also skilled in performing surgeries. They performed surgeries on various parts of the body, including the head, nose, and eyes. The Sumerians used various tools, such as scalpels and saws, to perform surgeries. They even developed a technique to remove cataracts from the eyes, which was a significant medical breakthrough at the time.

Another notable achievement was the use of bandages and splints to treat broken bones and other injuries. They also developed a technique to reset dislocated joints. The Sumerians were also the first to use a form of anesthetics during surgery. They used a type of opium called Hul Gil to numb the patient's senses and alleviate pain.

Overall, the Sumerian achievements in the field of medicine were significant and laid the foundation for medical practices that followed. Their methods and beliefs may seem primitive by modern standards, but they were innovative and effective for their time.