Page 157 - ירושלים: גיליון רפואי

Medication and Solace in Times of Plague

Plagues and Jerusalem Balsam

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Jerusalem was struck by several deadly plagues. The
negligence of the authorities persuaded Franciscan monks, members of the “Custody
of the Holy Land” (Custodia Terræ Sanctæ), to band together to care for Jerusalem’s
inhabitants, ministering to all ethnic groups and religions. Dozens of monks paid for
this effort with their lives.
In the San Salvador Monastery, a hospital was set up, as well as a pharmacy which was
known far and near, particularly for its “Jerusalem Balsam,” a remedy first invented by
Brother Antonio Menzani of Cuna. The balsam was formulated from plants found around
Jerusalem and was believed to have many curative powers, including as a remedy for
the plague.

155 ■ ‫תרופה ונחמה בימי המגפה‬