PREVENTIVE MEASURES AND TREATMENT METHODS OF EPIDEMICS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES IN THE OTTOMAN SOCIETY
PREVENTIVE MEASURES AND TREATMENT METHODS OF EPIDEMICS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES IN THE OTTOMAN SOCIETY

Summary/Abstract: Until the causes of infectious and epidemic diseases are known for certain and modern treatment methods are found, some measures have been taken to prevent diseases in all societies. In case of emergence of diseases, some traditional treatment methods have been applied. Living in clean and hygienic environments can be considered the most realistic measure to prevent the emergence of infectious diseases. However, it is seen that the concept of cleaning is perceived differently at different times, especially in Europe. Since Muslims lived predominantly in the Ottoman Empire, it can be said that they acted sensitively about body cleaning as a command of their religion. In addition to cleaning and hygiene, strengthening the immune system with natural remedies can be expressed as one of the most prominent measures. One of the most realistic measures was not to leave the diseased place and not to enter the diseased place. The quarantine application should also be evaluated in this context. There is information that the first vaccinations against smallpox were made by traditional methods in the Ottoman society. Herbal medicines were the most common form of treatment when infectious diseases emerged as an epidemic and deeply affected the society. Cassidoni (Lavandula stoechas), Nevruziye paste, henna, goat’s milk surutka, mışmış, isfanah, raziyanec, şibrem and honey are just a few of the natural remedies. Apart from these, it is also known that drugs are made with surgical methods and some chemical compositions. There were also some magical practices such as witchcraft, voodoo, talisman and fortune-telling in order not to get sick or to be treated. In this context, it is possible to evaluate the lodges of the poor and pesthouse, where leprosy patients are treated and isolated.

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