In
Greek mythology, the
Rod of Asclepius , also known as the
Staff of Asclepius (sometimes also spelled
Asklepios or
Aesculapius) and as the
asklepian, is a serpent-entwined rod wielded by the Greek god
Asclepius, a deity associated with healing and medicine. The symbol has continued to be used in modern times, where it is associated with medicine and health care, yet frequently confused with the staff of the god
Hermes, the
caduceus. Theories have been proposed about the Greek origin of the symbol and its implications.