Shamanic Medical Plants Of Present-Day Maya: Application Practices

DOI: http://doi.org/10.33876/2224-9680/2019-1-17/11

Abstract

The article covers aspects of shamanism of various Mayan groups in Mexico and Guatemala, in particular, the practice of medical herbs usage. Revealed is the historical context of Mayan shamanism, continuity in healing methods and traditional usage of medicines. Pointed out are basic causes of illnesses, as seen by Mayan shamans. The text briefly reviews studies on the preservation and application of healing herbs in Mayan culture. The issue of medical systems interoperation; described are problems emerging when traditional medicine contacts biomedicine. The article lists some of the healing herbs most frequently used in Mayan communities, with their original Mayan names, scientific names and health benefits. Shamanic herbal healing is reviewed in connection with the preservation of cultural originality and linguistic richness of indigenous peoples, as well as a practice preserving the biological diversity of the highland Mexico and Guatemala rainforests.

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