Mongolian Healing: Knowledge, Transmission and Practice Across Inner Asia

Mongolian Healing: Knowledge, Transmission and Practice Across Inner Asia explores the rich and diverse medicinal healing practices by Mongolian communities across Mongolia, Inner Mongolia and Kalmykia.This edited volume brings together scholars from various disciplines to examine knowledge systems and practises related to healing therapies, including nomadic healing, ritual practises including shamanic healing, water as a source for healing in the landscape and the art of Mongolian bonesetting. The second part of the book delves into the institutionalization of Mongolian medicine across Mongolia and Inner Mongolia, tracing its adaptation and its continuing presence in both urban and rural contexts, within contemporary healthcare systems, such as the hospital, laboratory and clinic. Through a Mongolian-oriented lens, this volume sheds light on the resilience and adaptability of Mongolian healing and medical traditions in the face of social, political and cultural transformations across history. Combining historical, anthropological and medical perspectives, it offers the first comprehensive account of how these practices have continued to thrive and adapt, bridging ancient knowledge with contemporary applications. As a part of broader Asian medical traditions, this volume is an essential resource for scholars, practitioners and anyone interested in the dynamic interplay of ancient wisdom and ongoing innovation across Inner Asia.

About the Author

Li Narangoa is a Professor in Northeast Asian history and culture and the founding Director of the Mongolia Institute at the Australian National University.

Natasha Fijn is an Associate Professor and Director of the Mongolia Institute at the Australian National University.

Benedikte V. Lindskog is an Associate Professor in Medical Anthropology at Oslo Metropolitan University.