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Wood carved statue of deity sitting with legs folded, holding a cup up to their lips, adorning a large head piece.
Wood carving of Itzamná patron deity of medicine (among others). (Photo: Maya Nengr)

"Ah-men" doctors practice throughout the Mayan civilization.

200s

TFCM
Wood carving of Itzamná patron deity of medicine (among others). (Photo: Maya Nengr)

The Mayan civilization, spread across what is known today as Mesoamerica, is home to healing practices that combine spirit work (overseen by shamans) and treatment of the physical body (conducted by "ah-men" or "disease throwers"). This medical system includes a vast range of herbal remedies, surgeries with sutures from human hair, and accomplished dentistry practices, such as making prostheses and filling teeth.