Mithridatism is a specialized practice involving the gradual, self-administered ingestion of non-lethal doses of poison. The primary objective of this method is to build a physiological immunity or tolerance to toxic substances over time.
The term is historically derived from Mithridates VI, the king of Pontus. According to historical accounts, the king lived in constant fear of assassination by poisoning, which led him to adopt this rigorous regimen to ensure his survival against potential threats.