ELSHOLTZ,JOHANN,SIGISMUND, A FORGOTTEN PI ONEER OF GERMAN HYGIENE

In 1682, the term ''hygiene'' appeared for the first time in the Germa n language, in Johann Sigismund Elsholtz's Diaeteticon. In the author' s meaning this term is used to describe the tenet of the maintenance o f good health. In his book, Elsholtz who was physician at the court of Frederick William, the Great Elector of Brandenburg, makes suggestion s for wholesome food and drinking. He demands the availability of clea n water and of a good air and draws attention to the importance of per sonal hygiene. Thus, Elsholtz should be referred to as a German pionee r of hygiene whose recognition has been long overdue.