Archaeologists in Turkey have discovered traces of human excrement in a 1,900-year-old glass vial. This find offers the first physical evidence that ancient Romans used feces medicinally, a practice previously known only through historical texts.
The vial, likely used for perfumes or elixirs, was analyzed by pharmacologist Ilker Demirbolat, who identified human faeces and thyme oil. The presence of thyme oil suggests it was mixed to mask the odor, as described by Roman physicians.
While the vial's exact excavation site is unknown, it was recovered near the ruins of Pergamon, a city known for its hospital and the physician Galen, who documented the medicinal use of excrement. The bottle's design also points to the region.