Mani people's experience of self-management of common illnesses Residing in Pa Bon District Phatthalung Province.

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative research was to describe the experience of self-management of frequent illnesses among the Maniq living in Pa Bon District, Phatthalung Province. The purposive sampling method was employed to select 9 Maniq people in Pa Bon District, Phatthalung Province. Data were collected by semi-structured in-depth interviews together with non-participatory observation and field notes from January to December 2021. The findings can describe 23 frequent illnesses and their management as follows. In terms of fever and cold symptoms, traditional wisdom passed down from their ancestors, which is eating and smelling herbs, is used. Freshwater animals and animal blood are used to apply on the body or boiled for bathing. They also eat meat and buy medicine themselves. Headaches are treated by wrapping herbs around the head. When vomiting, herbs are kept in the mouth. Cough is treated by eating herbs. Moreover, animal bones are applied to the neck. They also use magic spells to treat cough. Labored breathing in asthma is treated by inhaling the smoke of herbs. Also, boiled animal bones are eaten to relieve the symptoms. Tinnitus is treated by applying herbs to the ear and using magic spells. Dizziness is healed by eating herbs and wrapping herbs around the head. Conjunctivitis is cured by dripping herbal liquid in the eyes and using magic spells. Toothache is treated by chewing or keeping herbs in the mouth.  The herbal latex is also put in the painful tooth hole. Stomachache is cured by eating and rubbing herbs on the stomach. Menstrual pain is cured by eating herbs. Diarrhea is treated by eating herbs. They also lie by the fire. Body aches can be healed by eating herbs and massage. The itching is healed by applying herbs to the itchy areas. Stress and anxiety can be managed by talking, singing, and playing homemade musical instruments. When an insect gets in the ear, it is treated by using magic spells. When water gets in the ear, water is dropped in another ear where the water does not get in. Ticks getting in the ear can be treated by dropping the herbal latex or liquid into the ear. Burn wounds can be healed by using herbs or animals. Animal oil or salt is applied to the wounds. Bruises can also be treated by herbs or animals. Animal oil or breast milk is applied to the bruises. Fresh wounds can be healed by herbs or animals.  Animal oil ashes or fish bile is applied to the wounds. When bitten by a poisonous animal, herbs are used by applying or compressing to the wound. Animal larvae can also be used for treatment. 

This study provides relevant organizations or persons with knowledge and understanding of the symptoms and management of Maniq’s illnesses. Therefore, it can systematically manage and provide health support that aligns with Maniq’s lifestyle.   The guidelines to promote illness management can be developed. The support that meets Maniq’s needs can also be developed. However, the Maniq is self-reliant which is in line with their way of life and human dignity must have remained