CHAPTER XIX

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MEDICINE AND FUNERAL RITES AMONG THE NAHUAS.

Mexican Contributions to Medical Science -- The Botanical Gardens -- Longevity -- Prevalent Diseases -- Introduction of Small-Pox and Syphilis -- Medical Treatment -- The Temazcalli -- Aboriginal Physicians -- The Aztec Faculty -- Standard Remedies -- Surgery -- Superstitious Ceremonies in Healing -- Funeral Rites of Aztecs -- Cremation -- Royal Obsequies -- Embalming -- The Funeral Pyre -- Human Sacrifice -- Disposal of the Ashes and Ornaments -- Mourners -- Funeral Ceremonies of the People -- Certain Classes Buried -- Rites for the Slain in Battle -- Burial among the Teo-Chichimecs and Tabascans -- Cremation Ceremonies in Michoacan -- Burial by the Miztecs in Oajaca 591

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