MATERIALS AND METHODS USED IN HEALING IN KYRGYZ TURKS' FOLK MEDICINE

Abstract

Since ancient time the intention to seek healing for diseases and lead a healthy life has been the primary concern of people. The treatment practices with traditional knowledge and experience which were developed accordingly have reached our days, passing from generation to generation through oral tradition. Folk medicine, which is based on the concept that health made up of soul and body integrity, is a purification and treatment formula in which the experience of generations, cooperation, belief and trust are affirmed, and nature and the power of nature are blessed. These healing practices in Turkish culture which consist of pre-Islamic and post-Islamic customs, traditions, beliefs, cultures and experiences are also an important and remarkable field for Kyrgyz Turks. The folk medicine tradition of the Kyrgyz Turks and its performers carry the traces of the ancient healers such as shamans and Shamanism as well as Islamic tradition, and it exemplifies cultural diversity and continuity. For Kyrgyz Turks, the tradition of folk medicine is considered as complementary and alternative treatment system to the modern medicine as well as the first treatment system that patients apply for healing. The performers of this tradition, their personal characteristics, the treatment practices and methods used in healing, as well as materials used in the treatment are important to draw the boundaries this tradition and to explore the tradition. This study presents the materials and methods used in the treatment within the folk medicine tradition of Kyrgyz Turks which will be evaluated in relation to the treatment methods and diseases. The findings will be discussed regarding the data obtained through observation and interview as well as the literature review.