Hermes Caduceus: Symbolism, History & Meaning

A caduceus (/kəˈdjuːsiəs/; Greek κηρύκειον kērū́keion; Latin caduceus) is the staff carried by Hermes in Greek mythology. Two snakes wind around an often winged staff. It is often used as a symbol of medicine instead of the Rod of Asclepius, especially in the United States, despite originating and largely remaining a symbol of trade, liars, thieves, eloquence, negotiation, alchemy, and wisdom.