The Regimen Sanitatis Salernitanum, often referred to as the “Salernitan Rule of Health,” is a medieval didactic poem composed in rhyming Latin verse. Attributed to the renowned Schola Medica Salernitana, one of the earliest medical schools in Europe, the poem serves as a comprehensive guide to health preservation. Its origins are believed to date back to the 12th or 13th century, though some sources suggest it may have been written as early as 1050. The true authorship remains uncertain, with some attributing it to John of Milan. The poem was dedicated to an unidentified “Robert, Duke of Normandy,” possibly Robert II of Normandy, and aimed to disseminate medical knowledge to a broad audience.
Structured in hexameter verse, the Regimen Sanitatis Salernitanum offers practical advice on various aspects of daily life to promote health and well-being. It emphasizes the importance of moderation in diet, regular physical activity, adequate rest, and mental well-being. The poem delves into topics such as the therapeutic uses of wine, the benefits of certain foods, and the significance of personal hygiene. Notably, it discusses the “six non-naturals,” a concept derived from Galenic medicine, which includes air, food and drink, sleep and wakefulness, motion and rest, excretions and retentions, and the passions of the soul. These elements were considered crucial in maintaining the body’s balance and preventing disease.
The poem’s accessibility and practical guidance contributed to its widespread popularity throughout medieval Europe. Its mnemonic rhymes made it easier for both medical practitioners and laypeople to remember and apply its teachings. The Regimen was translated into numerous vernacular languages, including English, German, Hebrew, and Italian, facilitating its reach across different cultures and regions. By the time of its first printed edition in 1480, the poem had expanded from its original 364 lines to over 3,500 verses, incorporating additional commentary and insights from various scholars. The first English translation was completed by Sir John Harington in 1608, further cementing its influence in the English-speaking world.
Beyond its immediate medical advice, the Regimen Sanitatis Salernitanum reflects the synthesis of Greco-Roman, Arab, and Jewish medical traditions that characterized the Schola Medica Salernitana. This confluence of knowledge led to a holistic approach to health, integrating physical, mental, and environmental factors. The poem’s enduring legacy lies in its comprehensive approach to health maintenance and its role in disseminating medical knowledge during a pivotal period in medical history. Its teachings continued to influence medical thought and public health practices well into the 19th century, highlighting the timeless relevance of its guidance on leading a balanced and healthy life.