Prehistoric medicine
Prehistoric Medicine
Prehistoric medicine refers to the healing practices and beliefs of early humans before the advent of written language and formalized knowledge systems.
Pronunciation
Prehistoric: /priːhɪˈstɔːrɪk/ Medicine: /ˈmɛdɪsɪn/
Etymology
The term "prehistoric" comes from the prefix "pre-" meaning "before" and "historic" referring to recorded history. "Medicine" originates from the Latin "medicina," derived from "mederi" which means "to heal."
Overview
Prehistoric medicine incorporated various forms of natural remedies, spiritual beliefs, and rituals. It was heavily influenced by the environment and the resources available. The practice of medicine in prehistoric times was often intertwined with religion and magic, as early humans sought to understand and control the natural world.
Practices
Prehistoric medicine involved a range of practices, including the use of herbs and plants for healing, bone setting, trepanation (the practice of drilling holes into the skull), and spiritual rituals to ward off evil spirits or to invoke the aid of deities.
Related Terms
- Herbalism: The use of plants for medicinal purposes.
- Shamanism: A religious practice involving a practitioner who is believed to interact with a spirit world through altered states of consciousness.
- Trepanation: A surgical intervention where a hole is drilled into the human skull.
- Bone setting: The manipulation of broken bones to promote healing.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Prehistoric medicine
- Wikipedia's article - Prehistoric medicine
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