Bidasoa beheco osasunaren inguruko usteak, kezkak, ohiturak eta balioak

Abstract

Our intention with this research work was to analyse the group of ideas and knowledge associated with popular medicine in the region of Bidasoaldea. With this objective in mind, a series of beliefs, myths, values and superstitions associated with health and illness was compiled. Due to the acculturation process produced by the dominant medical system, and which has grown over the last 50 years, the remedies associated with magical and religious powers have gradually lost ground, and have practically become extinct, leaving only natural remedies as an exception. As with other aspects of our culture, traditional therapeutic knowledge is passed down from generation to generation. Somehow, ethnographic work enables the society to continue, as it introduces the knowledge of elements from the past that help us to better connect with our culture and which enable us to develop with greater ease.In general, it may be said that the inhabitants of the Bidasoaldea region usually turn to scientific or official medicine when they are unwell. However, popular medicine is also used, as it is so deep-rooted in our culture.