Prior to the introduction of western medicine, during the early fifties of the twentieth century, indigenous medicine or Dhivehi-beys was used in the Maldives.
Although there is no information regarding the origin of Dhivehi-beys, it is believed that traditional Chinese medicine forms a major part of it. Based mainly on plants and its component parts, Dhivehi-beys provide cures for almost all ailments known in the country in the past.
Traditionally, fanditha (curative religious magic) also forms a part of the Dhivehi-beys system. Although there is a sharp decline in the practice of Dhivehi-beys, since the introduction of western medicine, traditional practitioners still exist in the country. Beys Veriyaa
Beys Veriyaa is the Dhivehi name for traditional medicine men. Foolhumaa
Foolhumaa is the Dhivehi name for the traditional midwife. Since people first inhabited these islands, the foolhmai had been an important person in society. Traditionally, the vocation passed from mother to daughter. |
