Toxic medieval paranoia sparks the use of a lurid stone; in ancient Egypt, a fascination with a shocking creature leads to curious treatments; and in ancient Chinese burials, traces of cannabis are found.

Egyptian mummies are looted to fill the shelves of European dispensaries; a community in the Alps defies science with a toxic supplement; and in an ancient Mayan kingdom, remnants of a sweat bath provide clues to early maternal health.

An 18th-century cup promising universal healing conceals a deadly secret. Roman army medics display remarkable ancient care. And fragile bamboo scrolls hint at the origins of ancient Chinese medical traditions.