| บทคัดย่อ(English) |
The purpose of this research is to study the knowledge of healing, and the factors contributing to this knowledge of Doctor Pinkaew Tun-nuan, a Lanna folk healer residing in Maetang, Chiangmai. It was an anthropological study, using qualitative research, conducted through survey, informal interviews, intensive interviews and participatory observation. Time used for information collection was about six months, from November 1997 to April 1998. This study concludes that the healing knowledge of Doctor Pinkaew Tun-nuan is based on the understanding that the body is a combination of elements and components. The doctor perceived that disease was caused by both natural and supernatural acts. The doctor explained that the cause of natural disease can be explained through the symbol "Kang". Causes of supernatural illness included the use of magic, actions by spirits, violating traditions, "soul loss", and fate (Karmic causes). Methods of therapy included avoiding factors that aggravate the diseases, using herb medicine, eating good food, massage, excercise, and using magic and ceremonies. There are two kinds of the factors that contribute to the healing knowledge of Doctor Pinkaew Tun-nuan : (1) interior factors, such as birth in a family with a tradition of folk healing, and chances to use and develop knowledge; (2) exterior factors such as chances to meet many people and other kinds of healing professionals to develop and adjust medical knowledge in order to adapt to the changing disease conditions of patients. These factors contribute to a doctors knowledge of disease progression, and new disease situation. |
