Curanderismo in Appalachia: The Use of Remedios Caseros among Latinos in Northeastern Tennessee

Abstract

Abstract This paper examines the relatively recent manifestation of curanderismo (Latino traditional medical beliefs and practices) in Southern Appalachia. Specific attention is given to the use of remedios caseros (home remedies), as reported by seventy-two Latino residents in northeastern Tennessee, and the associated adaptations Latinos have made to access traditional materia medica (medical materials). The interviews revealed extensive use of remedios caseros and knowledge of a broad range of traditional materia medica. Previous studies on Latino dependence on remedios caseros in the U. S. have focused almost exclusively on the use of medicinal plants. This investigation expands our knowledge of Latino folk materia medica by including the use of animal substances and processed materials. The remarkably strong correspondence between Latino and Southern Appalachian folk materia medica and similarities in their use is also discussed.