From Monastic Medicine to Modern Pharmacy

Pharmacist Michael Dohm sheds light in his lecture on the development of healing practices from monastic herb gardens to modern pharmacy – with a particular focus on the history of the Scheffel Pharmacy in Radolfzell.

From Monastic Healing to Modern Pharmacy

Michael Dohm is a third-generation pharmacist and manages the Scheffel Pharmacy in Radolfzell, which has been in operation since 1964. The pharmacy-historically interested pharmacist reports in his lecture at the old city pharmacy on the development of medicines from monastic healing practices to modern pharmacy. The island of Reichenau is home to a renowned medicinal herb garden modeled after the "Hortulus" by Abbot Walahfried Strabo from the 9th century, a treasure that extends far beyond the island's borders. Monasteries were considered centers of healing in the Middle Ages and into modern times. Monks collected medicinal plants, prepared medicines, and documented their knowledge in herb books. With the rise of universities, the body of knowledge became increasingly well-founded. What was the development like here in this area?

The first documented mention of a pharmacist in Radolfzell occurred during the plague epidemic in 1610/11. In 1689, Franz Zangerer opened his pharmacy at Seetorplatz. A privilege from the Viennese government assured him that the newly built half-timbered house would always house the only pharmacy in Radolfzell. After his death, the pharmacy passed into the hands of the Bosch family, who exercised the privilege for nearly 170 years. In 1908, the pharmacy was taken over by Albert Ehrhardt. His son Wilhelm founded the Scheffel Pharmacy in 1964 and was the last pharmacist in this venerable patrician house, which today houses the city museum.