Centuries before the Renaissance, Persian caring doctors defended evidence-based practice, discovered basic compounds, and wrote over 200 manuscripts that shaped Western medicine.
On Medicine Day, Iran and the scientific world recall the enduring legacy of Muhammad ibn Zakhalya al-Raj.
In Iran, August 27 is being observed as Pharmaceutical Day in commemoration of Muhammad Ibn Zakhalia al-Raj, a 9th-century Persian polymer that is known in the West as ammunition in the West.
A philosopher born near Tehran by Persian Muslim polymers, doctors, alchemists and philosophers, Raj has produced over 200 manuscripts and has made lasting contributions to medicine, philosophy and chemistry.
He defends evidence-based medicine and is considered the father of psychology, psychotherapy, pediatrics, obstetrics and ophthalmology.
Razi served as the Chief Physician at Baghdad and Ray Hospitals, attracting students from diverse backgrounds, renowned for their compassion and dedication to their patients.
He integrated Greek medical knowledge with his observations and saw himself as a modern Hippocrates.
Razi used bodily fluid theory to pioneer differentiate infectious diseases and wrote groundbreaking works on natural po and measles. He also discovered compounds such as alcohols and sulfuric acid.
His encyclopedia The Gridhous Life (Al-Hawi) and other works such as Kitab al-Mansuri and Al-Judari Wal Hasabah had a major impact on Western medical education.
A detailed description of Razi’s chemical reactions and equipment can be found in Kitab-al-Asrar. Although his philosophical writings were initially overlooked, his medical and scientific advances had a major impact on the development of these fields.
Approximately 40 of his manuscripts are stored in libraries around the world. Emphasizing both physical and psychological well-being, Raj’s holistic approach to medicine solidified his position as a visionary figure.
His emphasis on thorough observation, experimentation and clinical documentation laid the foundation for future generations of physicians and scientists.
Beyond his direct medical contributions, Raj’s writings have facilitated intellectual exchanges between Eastern and Western scholars, and contributed to the advancement of scientific knowledge across cultures.
His legacy continues to encourage healthcare professionals and researchers to embrace innovation and prioritize patient care above all else.
The annual adherence of medicines in Iran serves as a reminder of the deep and lasting impact of the Raj on the world of medicine and science.
Today, the legacy of Muhammad ibn Zakhalia al-Raj goes far beyond historical recognition.
It exists in the very spirit of modern health care. It is a courageous spirit of merciless pursuit of evidence, overall patient care, and scientific quest.
As a new generation of doctors, chemists and researchers stand on the shoulders of this Persian giant, his story is a powerful testimony to the universal and cooperative nature of knowledge.
Annual adherence to Pharmacy Day is more than a homage to the great minds of the past. It is a timeless memory that innovation, compassion, and rigorous observation are the lasting pillars on which human progress is built.
Reported by Tohid Mahmoudpour