A small Roman glass bottle discovered in western Turkey has provided the first direct chemical proof that ancient physicians used human feces as a medicinal ingredient. The vial, dating back about 1,900 years, contained dark brown residue that scientists later identified as human excrement mixed with thyme oil. Researchers say the mixture closely matches treatments described in ancient medical texts but had never before been confirmed through physical evidence. The surprising discovery connects archaeology, chemistry and ancient medicine and offers a rare glimpse into how Roman doctors prepared remedies nearly two millennia ago. It also shows how treatments that may seem shocking today were once considered legitimate medical practice.
