Thai Traditional Medicine

This morning we went to Chiang Mai University for a lecture on Traditional Thai Medicine given by Associate Professor Dr. Panee Sirisa-ard. Thai traditional medicine differs from modern medicine because it aims to restore the body's normal function so it can heal itself in addition to the goal of relieving or curing symptoms. The lecture today focused on the four elements (earth, water, wind and fire) and the health benefits of many different herbs. 

We were still eager to learn even when the power went out!

We went to the Center of Thai Traditional and Complementary Medicine to learn about Thai massage with herbal compress (Suan Dok massage) and Chinese medicine such as acupuncture. 

Dave and Alissa getting massages 

Van and Silpa getting massages 

Analesa and Bonnie getting massages 

The pharmacist showing us the botanical garden. 

The Chinese Medicine Doctor explaining the uses for different length needles in acupuncture. 

Now it's our turn! We each prepared our own Thai Lanna herbal massage ball. 

Step 1: dump the herbs onto a cotton cloth

Step 2: fold up the edges of the cloth around the herbs

Step 3: wrap the ball tightly so the herbs are very compressed and wrap a string around the excess cotton cloth to contain the herbs

Finished products - not bad for our first time!

Lauren demonstrating an herbal compress massage on Alissa. 

Then Alissa demonstrated on me!

We extend huge thank you to all the doctors who take time out of their days to teach us about their specialties.