Armenian Bole (Deposits, Chemical Composition, Application) and References to It in Medieval Armenian Medical Texts

Abstract

This article explores the historical and modern applications of Armenian bole (bolus armenicus) in medicine, highlighting its anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-tumour, and other therapeutic properties. The historical use of this clay is witnessed by prominent Armenian and foreign scholars of the Middle Ages. Its significance extended into both Eastern and Western medicine until the eighteenth century. Today, as confirmed by research at the Matenadaran, Armenian bole is still valued in traditional medicine. The resurgence of interest in Armenian bole aligns with a broader trend towards integrating traditional remedies with modern medical practices. The geological and mineralogical analysis of Armenian bole reveals its rich composition. It has diverse applications in medicine and industry. This study includes citations from medieval medical works and concludes with the potential of Armenian bole’s catalytic properties, which will be the focus of future research.