The evolution of ancient healing practices: From shamanism to Hippocratic medicine: A review.
Medicine (Baltimore) July 1, 2024 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000039005 via PubMed Central
Summary
This review traces the historical development of medicine from early shamanistic traditions to the rational system of Hippocratic medicine. It describes how healing practices evolved from spiritual and ritualistic approaches to more systematic, observational methods. The work highlights key shifts in understanding disease causation and treatment, emphasizing the transition from supernatural explanations to naturalistic frameworks.
Study at a glance
| Design | review |
|---|---|
| Key finding | The evolution of ancient healing practices shows a gradual shift from shamanism's spiritual approach to Hippocratic medicine's rational, observational methods. |
Abstract
The evolution of ancient healing practices: From shamanism to Hippocratic medicine: A review.