The term "toxicology" is derived from the Greek word "toxikon," which referred to poison used on arrows. The roots of toxicology can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who were among the first to categorize and study poisons. Ancient texts, like the Ebers Papyrus from Egypt (circa 1500 BCE), contain early references to poisons and antidotes, indicating a rudimentary understanding of toxic substances.
