Indigenous Medicine Among the Bedouin in the Middle East

Modern medicine has penetrated Bedouin tribes in the course of rapid urbanization and education, but when serious illnesses strike, particularly in the case of incurable diseases, even educated people turn to traditional medicine for a remedy. Over the course of 30 years, the author gathered data on traditional Bedouin medicine among pastoral-nomadic, semi-nomadic, and settled tribes. Based on interviews with healers, clients, and other active participants in treatments, this book will contribute to renewed thinking about a synthesis between traditional and modern medicine — to their reciprocal enrichment. Contents List of Illustrations Preface Acknowledgements Introduction Chapter 1 Health and Health Services among the Bedouin in the Middle East Chapter 2 The Treatment of Human Ailments Chapter 3 General Treatments Chapter 4 “Don’t Touch My Body” The Qarina and Bedouin Women’s Fertility Bibliography Index Aref Abu-rabia. Includes Bibliographical References (pages 187-210) And Index.