In ancient Greece and throughout the medieval period, many physicians thought the spleen was an organ crucial to human life. They believed that the body required four humors kept in balance to stay healthy. One of these four humors was black bile, and physicians thought the spleen created it. If a person had too much of this bile, they would become depressed. However, because doctors believed the spleen could cleanse excess bile as well as create it, they viewed the spleen in a positive light.

ZU_09 / Getty Images
This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.