The Healing Arts of the Maya – Medicine and Spirituality in the Ancient American Civilization

"The Healing Arts of the Maya – Medicine and Spirituality in the Ancient American Civilization" by Sterling In The Healing Arts of the Maya – Medicine and Spirituality in the Ancient American Civilization, author Sterling delves deep into the fascinating world of Maya medicine, shedding light not only on their practical healing methods but also on the spiritual and cultural foundations that shaped this remarkable civilization. The book offers a comprehensive and detailed analysis of Maya medical practices, showing how closely they were intertwined with religion, worldview, and social structure. Sterling guides the reader through the history of the Maya, from the Preclassic to the Postclassic periods, and explains how their political and social organization influenced the development of their medical practices. The book provides profound insight into the Maya understanding of health and illness, explaining how the interplay of body, mind, and nature played a central role in their healing traditions. Special attention is given to the Maya healers and their various medical roles, including shamans, priests, and specialized doctors. Sterling not only describes their training and social roles but also explores the spiritual dimension of their work, where healing was often seen as an act of restoring harmony with the gods and with nature. The book further explains how the Maya possessed impressive diagnostic methods and treatment techniques, ranging from symptom observation and visions to the practical use of herbs and natural remedies. Key medicinal plants and substances that played a central role in Maya healing are also presented.