Folk Medicine Wisdom in Treating Psoriasis and Diabetes Mellitus of Folk Healer Chanae District, Narathiwat Province

Abstract

Introduction: Folk medicine wisdom is crucial to the health care system in the multicultural areas of the three southern border provinces. This research aims to extract lessons and document the body of knowledge of Mr. Muak Kongsri (Mor Yako), a folk healer specializing in the treatment of psoriasis and diabetes mellitus with herbal medicine in Chanae District, Narathiwat Province. This documentation is intended for the conservation and further development of these practices within the community health system.

Objectives: To study the history, body of knowledge, expertise, and treatment processes, as well as to analyze the principles of herbal formulation for treating psoriasis and diabetes mellitus employed by Mr. Muak Kongsri.

Methodology: This qualitative research study utilized in-depth interviews. The key informant was Mr. Muak Kongsri, supported by 9 additional informants in Chanae District, Narathiwat Province. The research instrument was a semi-structured interview guide covering the assessment of the healer's history, knowledge transmission, treatment processes, and herbal recipes. Data were analyzed using content analysis in conjunction with data triangulation.

Results: Mr. Muak Kongsri inherited his knowledge from his grandfather, Sao, and expanded his expertise through the Wat Pho medical texts. The treatment process involves a holistic approach consisting of 3 steps: history taking and lesion examination; dispensing herbal medicine accompanied by culturally appropriate encouragement; and follow-up, which includes performing the "Ded Phit" (toxin neutralizing) or "Sabad Rak" (root shaking) rituals once symptoms improve. Regarding herbal formulations, two recipes are used for psoriasis: a decoction consisting of 7 main herbs (e.g., Gardenia erythroclada bark, Tamilnadia uliginosa heartwood, and Nepenthes sp.) and a topical remedy containing 4 herbs (e.g., Ipomoea pes-caprae and Datura metel seeds). These formulations emphasize an "intoxicating" taste to address skin diseases and lymphatic disorders. For diabetes mellitus, two recipes are utilized: oral capsules comprising 5 herbs (e.g., red-veined kratom leaves, mulberry leaves, and Azadirachta excelsa root) and a topical remedy for wounds (teak bark mixed with honey). These herbs possess blood sugar-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion and Discussion: Mr. Muak Kongsri's wisdom exemplifies a holistic healing approach that addresses both the physical and mental well-being of patients. It integrates herbal recipes consistent with Thai traditional medicine and pharmacological theories, particularly the use of the "intoxicating" taste for skin conditions and bitter/astringent herbs for glycemic control, which align with current pharmacological research. Furthermore, his therapeutic practices illustrate multicultural coexistence, as he is a Thai Buddhist healer who seamlessly provides care within a predominantly Muslim community. This knowledge is highly valuable for conservation and merits integration with modern medicine in community hospitals.