Hmong Ethnic Folk Healer’ Wisdom for Menstrual Disorders Treatment: A Case Study of Folk Healer in Ruamthai Phatthana Subdistrict, Phop Phra District, Tak Province

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate Hmong ethnic folk healers’ wisdom to treat women’s health disorders under a case study of a folk healer in Ruamthai Phatthana Subdistrict, Phop Phra District, Tak Province. Questionnaires and in-depth interviews were used as instruments. The study period spanned from April to August 2024 and investigated a folk healer widely respected by the community, with over 20 years of experience in treating women’s health disorders. The findings of this study documented treatment methods rooted in Hmong ancestral beliefs and the use of local plants for healing. The research identified the types of medicinal plants used, the plant parts utilized, methods of herbal preparation, application techniques, medicinal properties, and approaches to monitoring patients’ symptoms. This study highlighted the Hmong ethnic community's significant role in preserving local wisdom regarding traditional healing practices over generations, providing a dependable source of care for the community despite rapid social changes and development. Furthermore, the medicinal plants used in these treatments have the potential to guide future research into the discovery of active compounds for medical advancements.