How to Use African American Folk Medicine

Unlike modern remedies, folk medicine relies heavily on the use of herbs and botanicals to treat physical ailments. African American folk medicine incorporates spiritually inclined principles, as well. Some come from west and central African traditions, or from Caribbean traditions, like those from Haiti. Follow these steps to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• Assortment of herbs/teas
• Time

Remedy the Basics

1. Treat nausea, indigestion or simple after-dinner gas with simple African American folk medicine techniques. As with many other folk medicine approaches, herbs are used frequently.
2. Choose from spearmint, catmint or peppermint to experience the relaxing and tummy-soothing properties of tea made with any of the above. Readily available in undeveloped areas, herbs promise many healing attributes. They can be harvested without much expense.
3. Use senna, an herb commonly used in Haiti and in the southern United States. Because of its fibrous properties, it makes an excellent laxative tea that's been used to eliminate intestinal worms.

Pinpoint Serious Pain

4. Protect your heart with garlic, a well-respected favorite that's been eaten over the years to reduce high blood pressure.
5. Include spirituality. Success with most of these remedies has been reported through faith in an all-powerful being. It's a key to many African American folk remedies.
6. Apply warm fat to a thin cloth, then place it upon a garlic-rubbed chest to fight congestion.

Respect Greater Powers

7. Combat ill health with the help of a root doctor. A root doctor in African American folk medicine is a conjurer who's in touch with spiritual forces.
8. Find relief from chronic diarrhea through the power of a conjurer. Read more about conjuring practices and supernatural beliefs in Jeffrey Anderson's "Conjure in African American Society" (see Resources below).
9. Learn more by reading articles about African American traditional medicine at the "PubMed" Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• If an allergic reaction is detected, immediately discontinue whatever treatment you've started.
• Visit an ER or emergency medical clinic if you experience unexplained swelling, as this could be the sign of a very serious infection.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. If you decide to try folk medicine, consult your primary health care provider. Keep your doctor informed about the folk medical technique you undertake.
• Consult MayoClinic.com to learn how educate yourself about alternative medicine claims (see Resources below). Learn how to assess those claims before you make your treatment decision.