Life was never a guarantee in the distant past. Before the advent of modern medicine, people had to rely on a variety of healing methods, hoping to come out on top in the struggle against deadly viruses and diseases. Without common medications, ancient people were threatened even by ailments such as the common cold, and many perished being unable to treat them. But still, attempts were made, and many ancient cultures held their healers and shamans in high regard. Often, they were the difference between life and death. But just how did these civilizations heal themselves? Did they rely on the nature around them, or was there some hidden knowledge at play? Ancient Medicine: What Was the Earliest Surgery? (Video) The Hidden Healers: Women's Secret Medieval Health Networks Read moreSection: NewsHistoryAncient TraditionsRead Later