Darts – In many cultures, it is thought that illnesses may be the result of assault by sorcerers, witches, enemy shamans, or even aggrieved “friendly” shamans. In many cases, these hostile forces fire darts and other intrusions that can be seen only by healing shamans. The removal of darts, sometimes by sucking cures, can be a significant part of a shaman’s job.
SOURCE:
Historical Dictionary of Shamanism by Graham Harvey and Robert J. Wallis 2007