Caduceus is the name of the staff which was carried by Hermes in Greek mythology. It is also a symbol of commerce, as well as a symbol of medicine and healing. The caduceus has two snakes entwined around a central staff, and sometimes wings are present on the staff as well.
The origin of the caduceus as a medical symbol is often credited to the physician Hippocrates, who used it on his seal. However, there is no evidence that Hippocrates ever used the caduceus as a medical symbol. The first use of the caduceus in a medical context was in 1785, when it appeared on the cover of a book about obstetrics by Wilhelm Ten Rhijne.
The Caduceus in Greek Mythology
Hermes was the messenger god in Greek mythology, and he was often depicted carrying a staff with two snakes entwined around it. This staff came to be known as the caduceus. In some versions of the myth, Hermes gave this staff to Apollo in exchange for Apollo’s lyre.
The Caduceus as a Symbol of Commerce
The caduceus has long been associated with commerce and trade, likely because Hermes was also the god of commerce and thieves. In ancient times, merchants would often carry staves or rods decorated with snake imagery to ward off evil spirits and ensure good luck in their travels. The caduceus became particularly associated with commerce after being adopted as a logo by several businesses, most notably FedEx.