Calliope, Muse of Eloquence:  English Words from Classical Mythology

salutary

Salus is the personified Roman goddess of health and prosperity, both of the individual and the state. She had a temple on the Quirinal, built in 302 BC. Later she became more a protector of personal health. Her attribute was a snake or a bowl and her festival was celebrated on March 30.

Our English words salute, salutation, salutatory, and salutatorian are all derived from the name Salus, suggesting a greeting that includes wishes for good health.

Salus is identified with the Greek goddess Hygieia, from whose name we have our word hygiene.

Which of the following would have a salutary effect on someone?

aspirin
caffeine
adrenaline