MOSES MAIMONIDES,
a renowned twelfth-century rabbi, philosopher, and physician,
practiced in the court of Saladin (11371193), sultan of
Egypt and Syria. Maimonides wrote a treatise on asthma for his
royal patient, Prince Al-Afdal. Among his recommendations were
moderation in food, drink, sleep, and sexual activity; avoiding
polluted city environments; and, as a specific remedy, chicken
soup.