The skills of the ancient Egyptians in preserving bodies through mummification are well known, but less recognized is their expertise in the everyday medical practices needed to treat the living. John F. Nunn draws on his own experience as a physician and Egyptologist to reassess the evidence on ancient Egyptian medical practices. Nunn has translated and reconsidered the original Egyptian medical papyri and has re-evaluated other sources of information, including skeletons, mummies, statues, tomb paintings, and sarcophagi.

Illustrations highlight similarities in the conditions of ancient and modern patients, and Nunn appraises the criteria ancient Egyptian doctors used to make their diagnoses in the context of current medical knowledge—showing that many of their findings are still valid today. He also explores ancient Egyptian spells and incantations and the relationship of magic and religion to medical practices.

Incorporating recent insights of modern medicine and Egyptology, Nunn provides readers with a comprehensive and authoritative book on a fascinating subject.