New research reveals groundbreaking information about medical and surgical practices in the ancient Parthian civilization. This civilization was known for its amazing metalwork and cutting edge warfare tactics. An interdisciplinary study under the direction of archaeologist Dr. Mohammad Reza Eghdami analyzed skeletal remains from the Liyarsangbon Cemetery in Iran’s Guilan province. On the way home, researchers found someone with a healed arrow wound that had never been taken out. This crucial find gives us our best insight into the fighting methods of the deadly Parthians. It further illuminates their medical culture, which enjoyed a Golden Age from 247 BCE to 224 CE.
The Parthians were originally relatives of the Parnian tribe that formed the ruling figure of the Dahae Union. Perhaps less familiar, but just as recognizable, are ancient Scythians’ prowess in metalworking, crafting stunning weapons and other regalia from metals— even intricate horse tackle. Their craftsmanship was equally impressive as to even the Romans, the quality of Parthian metalwork was highly regarded. This mastery carried over into their production of complex arrowheads, emphasizing their technological superiority in metallurgy.
The Study and Its Findings
Dr. Eghdami’s study, which took place between 2016 and 2018, was published in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology. In doing so, researchers discovered 77 skeletal remains. These discoveries contributed richly to what we know about the people who lived during the time of Parthia. Among the remains, researchers found one individual with a healed arrow wound. Beyond the survivor’s remarkable fortune to survive such an injury, this discovery indicates at least some level of medical knowledge at the time.
The arrowhead found with this person fits the pattern of other identified Parthian arrows. This conclusion highlights the dexterity with which the Parthians could deploy bows and arrows in combat. Until this discovery, very little was known about the Parthians’ combat tactics. It sheds light on how they treated injuries stemming from fighting engagements.
Insights into Parthian Medicine
However, little is known about Parthian medical practices. Though limited, Dr. Eghdami’s findings pave the way for more exploration into this captivating field. The study suggests that future examinations could focus on paleobotany and medicinal plants that were likely utilized by the Parthians. Archaeologists and historians are examining ancient medical writings, along with archaeological finds. Their goal is to learn more about the medical knowledge and practices of this ancient civilization.
The finding of a healed arrow wound prompts speculation as to the methods of treatment employed. This would imply that even ancient cultures, such as the Parthians, had a rather advanced and complex system of medical knowledge. On the civilian side, they likely invented the best kind of techniques for fixing traumatic wounds. Getting to know these practices can go a long way to enriching our understanding of ancient medicine overall.
Implications for Historical Understanding
The findings from Dr. Eghdami’s study not only shed light on individual medical cases but enhance the overall understanding of the Parthian civilization’s capabilities in warfare and medicine. In truth, Parthian weaponry is historically shown to be almost universally effective. Their bows and arrows were central to their military strategy, allowing them to strike effectively with deadly accuracy from distance against their enemies.
Scholars are currently analyzing skeletal remains from other such archaeological sites. Such research has the potential to unlock unprecedented information about the day-to-day lives of the Parthians, such as their health care measures, or how they treated wounds acquired in combat. Each find brings us another step towards understanding how these ancient societies dealt with health, conflict, and life.