Spiritual Possession and the Role of Traditional Healers in Nepal
Journal of Nepal Health Research Council March 9, 2022 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.33314/jnhrc.v17i01.1785 via DOAJ
Summary
Spiritual possession is a relatively common phenomenon across cultures. In Nepal, illness is frequently attributed to possession, leading people to consult traditional healers. These healers often lack medical training, which may delay appropriate treatment for serious conditions. However, they might still have a useful role in patient management.
Study at a glance
| Key finding | Spiritual possession is a common explanation for illness in Nepal, and while traditional healers' lack of medical training could harm health, they may still play a role in patient care. |
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Abstract
Spiritual possession is a relatively common phenomenon, and occurs in many cultures around the world. It is a frequent claim in Nepal that illness is caused by spiritual possession, and ill people often seek out traditional healers for treatment. Traditional healers are often not medically trained, and this could have an adverse effect on a person’s health as serious illnesses may not be managed appropriately. However, there is perhaps a role that traditional healers can play in the management of patients. Keywords: Culture; Nepal; spirit possession; traditional medicine.