A BRIEF HISTORY
The caduceus, a staff with two snakes coiled around it, is said to be the first medical symbol in the 16th century with Greek and Egyptian backgrounds. However, the Native American Medicine Wheel, which can take many forms from earthworks to craftwork, likely dates generations before this. This online exhibit includes a review of such early medical symbols including Native American, Greek and Roman and Contemporary medical symbols.
"Carving of Shield with Medical Symbols, Davison Building, undated" by Duke University Archives.
The image of the carved shield is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
Native American Medical Symbols
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Some of the earliest forms of medical symbols were created by Native American cultures. This exhibit includes images related to Native American medical symbols, such as the medicine wheel and eagle head carvings.
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To view more Native American medical symbols, click the button below.
Spirit of Eagles medicine wheel, by Chholing Taha, 2010 (Credit: National Library of Medicine (NLM))
Greek & Roman Medical Symbols
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Some of the most common medical symbols originated from Greek and Roman cultures. This exhibit includes examples of these various symbols, such as the caduceus and bowl of Hygieia.
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To view more Greek & Roman medical symbols, click the button below.
"Rod of Asclepius" by Mark Morgan Trinidad B is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Modern Medical Symbols
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Medical Alert Symbol
Based on symbols and relics from various cultures, modern medical symbols reflect the past and are used in various countries. Included in this exhibit are examples of pharmacy symbols, European medical symbols, and more.
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To view more modern medical symbols, click on the button below.