Abstract

The research aims to study the origin of the healthcare treatment, application

of Thai herbal medicine and the indigenous health practices at Wat Nong Ya Nang in

Uthai Thani province. The data was collected by focus group between April, 2015 to

November, 2016. Data analysis used content analysis. Phrakhru Up Kan Phat Kit was

born in 1946 in Uthai Thani. In 1971, he was ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat

Thamma Sophit in Nakhon Sawan province. In 1974 he started treatment of bone

injuries at Wat Nong Ya Nang temple by using herbal medicine and massage therapy

which has evolved into a mix treatment by utilizing Thai traditional herbal medicine

together with Buddhist principles, meditation, spiritual rituals, massages, indigenous

knowledge, modern physical therapy and prescription medication. This mix treatment

format is consistent with the culture of Thai communities. The combined treatments

have been affective in helping the recovery of patients with bone injuries, cancer and

paralysis. Research results conclude that the holistic method of treatment had to be on

both body and soul and majority of patients were favorable towards the mixed treatment

method at the hospice. This will build the strength of the community, making people

feel sympathy to each other. This also will help to support and promote traditional

Thai medicinal practices

Keywords: ThaiTraditional Medicine, Massage, Buddhism, Temple, Herbal Medicine