Medieval monasteries

• Often had running water systems and sewers
• Monks and nuns understood the importance of cleanliness for health
• Many hospitals were attached to religious houses so monks and nuns would work in both the monastery and the hospitals
• Monks and nuns knew it was better to take wat from upstream rather than downstream. As the downstream water is contaminated.
• Kept their cupboards well stocked with herbs and wine for treating the sick
• Monasteries would grow herbs in their physic garden and a herbalist or apothecary would offer the herbs to patients for treatment