The rigorous training and diversified treatment methods of ancient Babylonian doctors inspired Appalachian folk remedies to pay more attention to the accumulation of professional knowledge and the innovation of treatment methods in the process of inheritance and development. At the same time, the emphasis on health care in ancient Babylonian health care also reminded Appalachian folk remedies to focus on preventive medicine, which improves people’s immunity and prevents diseases by adjusting their lifestyles and using natural resources.
Ancient Babylonian wisdom of health care has been passed down and developed in Appalachian folklore, demonstrating the power of ancient wisdom across time and space.
5. Future prospects for Appalachian folk remedies
(1) Value and potential in modern society
Appalachian folk remedies have a value and potential that cannot be ignored in modern society. On the one hand, these therapies provide people with a natural, gentle health option. In today’s highly developed modern medicine, people tend to rely too much on drugs and surgical treatments, and ignore the importance of natural treatments. Appalachian folk remedies include herbal treatments and natural magic, which can help people alleviate the symptoms of diseases, improve the body’s immunity, and prevent the occurrence of diseases. For example, lobelia has significant efficacy as an “asthma agent” in the treatment of respiratory diseases, providing a new avenue of treatment for those suffering from asthma.
On the other hand, Appalachian folk remedies also have cultural value. These therapies carry on the historical and cultural traditions of Appalachia and are the result of the wisdom of the local people. By passing on and developing these folk therapies, the cultural heritage of Appalachian can be preserved and promoted, and the cultural identity and pride of the local people can be enhanced. At the same time, Appalachian folk remedies also provide a platform for the exchange and integration of different cultures, and promote the development of cultural diversity in the world.