Modelled on Archigenes 'theiotatos': Alexander of Tralles and his use of natural remedies (physika)

In contrast to other Late Antique medical authors, Alexander of Tralles uses the epithet theiotatos (most divine) when referring to Archigenes. This appellation becomes even more significant if one considers that Alexander otherwise only applies it to Hippocrates and Galen. Since the majority of Alexander’s mentions of Archigenes stress his recommendation of popular healing practices, which most medical authors excluded from their work, I argue that for Alexander Archigenes was a model of a well-known ancient medical authority who chose to make consistent use of natural remedies (physika).