“For centuries, Thai people have had their own system of health care and illness treatments. The value of Thai herbs and their physiological actions can be looked upon as Thai wisdom by the people. Local herbs have long been used as medecines and dietary supplements, they have also been used externally for therapeutic treatments such as steaming and application of poultices.”
Traditional Thai medecine recipes have been handed down from generation to generation for hundreds of years. Which herb to use for an illness, is knowledge that comes about from years of observation, trial and error, and fine-tuning. The use of herbs in cooking and for medicinal purposes has been a part of many cultures through the ages. In the olden days one would go no further than the kitchen to get cures for common ailments. Fresh or dried herbs and spices were items that could be found in everyone’s home apothecary. Many herbs are still being used today as they are e fective and safe. Indian and Chinese influences in the region cannot be denied and the proximity of Thailand to the two cradles of Asian civilization makes it a veritable melting pot where the three cultures, languages and body of knowledge blend, refine and enhance one another.
Relaxing massages, and ceremonies based on a set of traditional beliefs also form part of Thailand’s unique healing system. The healing power of touch and the creation of Thai herbal medicines are deeply embedded within Thai culture, encompassing Buddhist philosophy and wisdom, together with traditional practices in the treatment of illness.
In Chiang Mai, you will be able to discover the power of Thai herbs in the cuisine and also at spas (herbal compresses, herbal steam therapy, natural herbal scrubs and creams) as well as in Warorot Market which offers an array of traditional herbalist shops.
