The snake's unique ability to shed its old skin represents a triumph of self-renewal over aging. Similarly, blood from the right side of a serpentine monster, the Gorgon, gave Aesculapius the power of resurrection, while blood from her left side was poison. With its seeming power over death, the serpent became a symbol of deliverance. The blind Roman emperor Theodosius regained his sight when a serpent placed a stone on his eyes. When twined around a staff, the serpent stands as a clearer symbol of the healing art.
Staffs represent sacred trees.
In Near Eastern cultures, these trees were viewed as a type of the cosmic axis connecting this world with the underworld and the heavens. The image of Trees of Life, central to ancient creation accounts, permeates modern culture. Spires and steeples are cultural remnants of this archetype. Strangely, in contrast to its beneficent associations, the snake has also represented destruction and death. As symbols of life and death, serpents and their associated staffs represent both the aspirations and dangers of medical practice.