rich1.0HelenYrmom (npub1u5…pnzt7)https://yabu.me/npub1u53hqga9czffu7hqu5fg6sdgyycnssqwcygdh6wc52f83u3t0sfstpnzt7njumphttps://yabu.meYou know who was really cool? Saint Hildegard of Bingen. She was a German Benedictine mystic, composer, philosopher, and medical writer who stands out as one of the most prolific and influential polymaths of the High Middle Ages. (1098 to 1179) She experienced spiritual visions from a young age, which later formed the foundation of her extensive theological and creative works. Unlike many female mystics of her era, her visions were officially recognized by Pope Eugenius III in 1147, granting her immense religious and political authority. She was granted the rare privilege of traveling throughout Germany to preach publicly to both clergy and laity, fiercely criticizing corruption within the Church. She was really into holistic healing. She authored Physica (focused on the scientific properties of plants, elements, and animals) and Causae et Curae (exploring human physiology and disease). She viewed the human body as a microcosm of the broader physical universe. She meticulously documented the practical uses of plants, elements, trees, precious stones, fish, birds, animals, reptiles, and metals. She provided the first known recorded mention of using hops in brewing beer, specifically noting its utility as a preservative that prevents the beverage from spoiling. She advised boiling water from certain sources before drinking it or using it in medical treatments to prevent infection, an advanced and uncommon practice for the 12th century. Unlike male contemporaries, she wrote openly, extensively, and sympathetically about menstruation, gynecology, fertility, and the physical experiences of women without framing them solely through the lens of Eve's curse.