Healing Practices Research Articles

An exploratory study on becoming a traditional spiritual healer among Baganda in Central Uganda.

Traditional medicinal knowledge and healing practices of indigenous spiritual healers play important roles in health care, and contribute towards achieving Universal Health Care. Traditional spiritual healers (TSHs) are grouped into three categories. One category of Baganda TSHs, Balubaale, engage ancestral spirits during health management. Balubaale are socially significant but not legally accepted. Their initiation and training practices have not been documented in Uganda. The study purpose was to understand and establish the training of traditional spiritual healers. Twelve (10M, 2F); practicing TSHs in Central Uganda were purposively selected and recruited between 15th July 2019 and 29th April 2020, and were prospectively interacted with for 24 months. Transcribed data was coded and thematically analyzed using ATLAS ti. 22 computer software and presented based on an inductive approach. Findings show key areas of TSHs training include connecting with ancestral spirits and the spiritual powers of non-materials and materials such as living and non-living things through rituals. Spiritual healers train in diagnosis and health management based on ancestral spirits and they finally pass out in a communal ceremony witnessed by family and community members. We conclude that TSHs undergo training and are supervised and supported by experienced spiritualists, family and the community. We recommend similar studies among other ethnic groups to contextualize the process of becoming a TSH, compare and harmonize findings to facilitate inter-medical systems communication and policy considerations.

Chief Mohlomi’s Indigenous Epistemology of a Healing Career: A Psychobiographical Analysis

This study was a psychobiographical analysis of Chief Mohlomi’s indigenous epistemology of a healing career. Mohlomi was an unconventional thinker and the great-grandson of the king of the Bakoena, Monaheng, who lived in pre-colonial Africa. Mohlomi is generally referred to as the Socrates of Africa, a philosopher par excellence. He was also known as a great healer. The study answered the question: How can Chief Mohlomi’s indigenous epistemology of healing practices help bridge the Western, educated, industrialised, rich, and democratic (WEIRD) psychological healing practices gap and promote Afrocentric indigenous healing practices? Savickas’ Career Construction Theory was used as a lens to interpret Chief Mohlomi’s career of healing. Employing a single-case design, biographical data was examined to understand Chief Mohlomi’s indigenous epistemology of healing practices. The findings underscore Mohlomi’s indigenous epistemology of healing, healing for well-being, healing for inclusion and healing as nation-building. This study contributes to the field of psychology in general through the use of a psychobiography. In particular, the study contributes to the fields of career development and psychiatry based on the lessons learned from Chief Mohlomi’s epistemology of healing. Keywords: Healing Career, Indigenous Epistemology, Chief Mohlomi, Psychobiography, Lesotho.

Ethnobotany and diversity of Citrus spp. (Rutaceae) as a source of “Kem-kem” traditional medicine used among the Karo sub-ethnic in North Sumatra, Indonesia

The Karo sub-ethnic is one of five Batak sub-ethnicities in the Karo Regency, North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. They are famous for their local knowledge about the traditional use of medicinal plants to treat various diseases. The “Kem-kem” traditional medicine is one of the traditional healing practices that involve using plants passed down through generations from their ancestors. One of the plant genus group in the Rutaceae family utilized in the traditional “Kem-kem” healing practice is a citrus known as “Rimo”. This study aims to document the local knowledge about the diversity of Citrus spp. as Kem-kem's herbal medicinal plant. This study was conducted from April to July 2023 in the Kabanjahe and Berastagi districts, Karo Regency, North Sumatra. Data was collected using interviews with traditional healers, herbal medicine vendors, and direct observations at traditional markets, involving a total of 8 Citrus spp. The Karo uses “Rimo” with different local names as sources of traditional medicinal ingredients in practicing “Kem-kem”. There are 15 local names comprising eight species of Citrus. Four are hybrids, i.e., Citrus x aurantiifolia (Christm.) Swingle, Citrus × aurantium L, Citrus × junos Siebold ex Yu.Tanaka, and Citrus × taitensis Risso. Two of the remaining species are recognized in infraspecific rank, one variety (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis (Hoola van Nooten) Swingle) and one form (Citrus × aurantium f. deliciosa (Ten.) M.Hiroe). They were used as material sources for Kem-kem traditional medicine to treat at least nine health problems. There are two species with six local names included in the Least Concern (LC) category, namely C. medica (Rimo Gawang, Rimo Hantuantu, Rimo Kayu), C. medica var. sarcodactylis (Rimo Kuku Harimau), and C. medica (Rimo Telur Buaya), C. maxima (Burm.) Merr. (Rimo Malem). Nine local names are included in the Not Evaluated (NE) category, namely C. × junos (Rimo Kejaren), C. × taitensis (Rimo Jungga), C. × aurantium f. deliciosa (Rimo Keling), C. × aurantium (Rimo Kersik), Citrus hystrix DC. (Rimo Mukur), C. × taitensis (Rimo Puraga), C. × aurantium (Rimo Kalele), Citrus swinglei Burkill ex Harms (Rimo Pagar), and C. x aurantiifolia (Rimo Bunga). Rimo Kejaren (C. × junos) is a species that has the most benefits.

Integrative Medicine Approaches for Pain Management: Incorporating Traditional Healing Practices

Pain management remains a significant challenge in healthcare, with conventional approaches often falling short in addressing the complex and multifaceted nature of pain. Integrative medicine offers a promising paradigm that combines conventional treatments with traditional healing practices to provide holistic care for individuals suffering from pain and explores various integrative medicine approaches for pain management, focusing on incorporating traditional healing practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and mind-body therapies. Drawing upon clinical research, systematic reviews, and expert consensus, the article examines the efficacy, safety, and synergistic effects of integrative interventions in relieving pain, improving function, and enhancing quality of life. Additionally, the article discusses the importance of patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based practice in optimizing outcomes for individuals with chronic pain conditions.

Mindfulness – enrichment of the modern lifestyle

ABSTRACT This article addresses healing practices performed under the umbrella of mindfulness in order to problematize how mindfulness is presented as a means to enrich a modern lifestyle. The discussion considers mindfulness in a contemporary Swedish context, presenting a range of healing practices. A fundamental question asked is if they represent a religious or spiritual practice or just a technique? The discussion also addresses the discursive strategies used by different entrepreneurs in promoting mindfulness. A concern is if mindfulness has become an individual-centered practice aimed at creating a neoliberal persona able to cope with stress and feelings of insufficient creativity?

Singing truth to power: Transformative (gender) justice, musical spatialities and creative performance in periods of transition from violence

Feminist security studies have demonstrated that transitional justice processes worldwide have largely fallen short in providing actual transformative justice for women and that many gendered war experiences remain largely unaccounted for. Through an activist-academic collaboration and mobilizing feminist scholarship on war, embodiment and emotions together with literature on transitional justice and the arts, this article argues that women’s collective artistic resistance can foster deeper cultural and structural changes in transitional justice settings. By delving into the case of the women’s music collective Enkelé in Colombia, the article examines the creative possibilities afforded by music and choreography to document and testify to an enduring culture of violence and their role in probing the effectiveness of post–peace agreement transitional justice. We contend that paying attention to musical performances is key because these can express new visions of justice that are not constrained by the limits of what is possible and feasible in formal transitional justice mechanisms and can offer corporeal connectivity able to bring together communities fractured by war and armed conflict and to give visibility to knowledges and practices of memory and healing of marginalized communities.

The Practice and Exploration of Painting Healing in a Cross-cultural Context: An International Case Study

The practice and exploration of painting healing in a cross-cultural context is an area that has attracted much attention. As a nonverbal way of expression, painting is believed to be able to cross language and cultural barriers and provide people with psychological support and rehabilitation. This study explores the practice of painting healing in different cultural contexts through international case analysis. The study collected cases from different countries and cultures, covering different age groups such as children, adolescents and adults, as well as special groups such as refugees and abused persons .International case studies have shown that painting healing has achieved positive results in a cross-cultural context. Painting provides individuals with a nonverbal way of expression, helping them transcend the limitations of culture and language and express their inner feelings and emotions. Painting healing has shown remarkable effects in alleviating psychological problems such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Meanings of indigenous land-based healing and the implications for water governance

The continuous process of settler colonialism in Canada has profoundly impacted Indigenous Peoples' relationship with the Land and water, which holds immense significance in their healing journey. Reconnecting with the land and water through culturally rooted practices has far-reaching implications for the health and well-being of Indigenous communities. Maintaining a strong bond with the land and water is integral to Indigenous healing traditions. To gain insights into this connection we used a relational theoretical framework and engaged with Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation, a remote Indigenous community. Our approach centred around community-based participatory research, utilizing methods like deep listening, cultural camps and story-sharing to collect wisdom from community members, knowledge keepers, and Elders. The research findings show understanding the connection between Land-based healing practices and Indigenous-led water governance is critical to solving the water crises within remote Indigenous communities. This knowledge is indispensable for reshaping current water governance systems and ensuring the well-being of Indigenous communities across Canada.

Economic self-sufficiency (ESS) as a barrier to health self-sufficiency (HSS) for Burmese refugees in the United States: a culture-centered analysis

From displacement to resettlement, Burmese refugees bear high disease burdens; first as forced migrants escaping conflict and then as second-class citizens in host countries like the United States. This relegation of refugee bodies to the margins upon resettlement, warrants an examination of the contradictions of the process as a humanitarian enterprise yet in violation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10 of Reduced Inequalities, particularly through a health inequities lens. In the present study, the researcher conducted 15 semi-structured in-depth interviews with key stakeholders within the resettlement ecosystem of the city of Indianapolis, Indiana in the U.S., including Burmese community members, leaders, and health practitioners. Narrative data reveal an inverse relationship between the federally mandated metric of economic self-sufficiency (ESS) defined as job placement upon resettlement, and health self-sufficiency (HSS) defined as the ability to meaningfully engage with healthcare structures and resources. Participants articulate the precarious nature of such low-wage employment in predatory industries like meatpacking, requiring little to no language or vocational training and subjecting refugee employees to coercive practices including mandatory overtime. These practices are outlined as both dangerous to the health of employees and detracting from their time resources which would otherwise be allocated toward linguistic and vocational training—both required for socioeconomic mobility, as well as to meaningfully navigate labyrinthian healthcare structures. Faced with these structural constraints, Burmese community members demonstrate health self-sufficiency through a combination of treatment with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, traditional healing practices, and by activating familial and community networks as communal resources for accessing healthcare structures.

After the Witch of Malleghem (2021)

This augmented-reality pop-up print remediates The Witch of Malleghem, a 1559 image by Pieter Brueghel the Elder depicting a witch and her assistants removing “stones of madness” from villagers’ heads. Through dramatic re-enactments and re-animations of the figures in this work, we reflect on the visual rhetoric used to de-legitimize healing practices outside of the dominant patriarchal religious/medical establishment in Europe during that period. This piece was created for The Witch Institute at Queen’s University in 2021 with support from the Queen’s Arts Fund.

Efficacy of hot fomentation over intra scapular region in the improvement in pulmonary function in healthy volunteers

Abstract Naturopathy, an integrative form of primary care, combines traditional healing practices with modern research, emphasizing the body’s natural healing abilities and disease prevention. Fomentation, a therapeutic technique using hot compresses, has demonstrated efficacy in stimulating tissue activity and circulation, particularly benefiting individuals with pulmonary congestion. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of fomentation applied to the interscapular region on pulmonary function in healthy participants. A total of 30 healthy subjects were recruited and underwent a single session of hot fomentation (HF) applied to the interscapular region for a duration of 20 min. Pre-test and post-test assessments were conducted before and after the intervention. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in peak expiratory flow rate and forced expiratory volume in 1 s among healthy individuals. In conclusion, this study on the effects of fomentation to the interscapular region on pulmonary function in healthy individuals reveals significant improvements in lung function. The findings indicate that HF may be a beneficial and non-invasive intervention for enhancing respiratory performance in healthy individuals.

Exploring herbal medicine regulation in Nigeria: Balancing traditional practices with modern standards

The regulation of herbal medicine in Nigeria stands at the intersection of tradition and modernity, presenting a complex landscape shaped by historical practices, cultural beliefs, and contemporary healthcare standards. This paper delves into the intricate dynamics surrounding the regulation of herbal medicine in Nigeria, aiming to elucidate the challenges and opportunities inherent in balancing traditional practices with modern regulatory standards. Drawing from a multidisciplinary approach encompassing medical anthropology, public health, and legal studies, this research explores the historical roots of herbal medicine in Nigeria, tracing its evolution from indigenous healing practices to its current status within the broader healthcare system. It examines the cultural significance of traditional medicine, considering its role in local communities and its enduring relevance in addressing healthcare needs, particularly in underserved rural areas. However, alongside the rich tapestry of traditional healing, concerns regarding safety, efficacy, and standardization have prompted calls for regulatory reforms to align herbal medicine practices with modern healthcare standards. This paper scrutinizes the existing regulatory frameworks governing herbal medicine in Nigeria, analyzing the strengths, weaknesses, and gaps therein. It explores the tension between preserving traditional knowledge and ensuring consumer protection, highlighting the need for a nuanced approach that respects cultural heritage while safeguarding public health. Furthermore, this research assesses the implications of regulatory interventions on various stakeholders, including herbal practitioners, consumers, and policymakers. It considers strategies for enhancing collaboration between traditional healers and the formal healthcare sector, fostering mutual respect, and promoting evidence-based practices. Ultimately, this study underscores the imperative of striking a delicate balance between tradition and modernity in regulating herbal medicine in Nigeria, advocating for a harmonized approach that upholds both cultural integrity and healthcare quality.

Traditional Healing Practices and Folk Medicines in Thailand: A Case Study of Huai Yot District, Trang Province

Traditional Healing Practices and Folk Medicines in Thailand: A Case Study of Huai Yot District, Trang Province

Global perspectives on substance use treatment: A review of cross-cultural approaches and conceptual solutions for public health

Substance use disorders represent a significant public health challenge worldwide, necessitating a nuanced understanding of cultural variations in treatment approaches. This review examines global perspectives on substance use treatment, focusing on cross-cultural approaches and conceptual solutions aimed at enhancing public health outcomes. Cross-cultural perspectives underscore the importance of recognizing diverse cultural beliefs, values, and practices in addressing substance use disorders. Cultural factors such as stigma, religious beliefs, and societal norms profoundly influence individuals' perceptions of substance use and treatment-seeking behaviors. Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial for developing effective interventions tailored to specific populations. Moreover, this review explores various treatment modalities that have been implemented across different cultural contexts. From traditional healing practices rooted in indigenous knowledge to evidence-based interventions adapted for cultural relevance, a spectrum of approaches exists to address substance use disorders globally. Integrating traditional healing methods with modern evidence-based treatments showcases promising outcomes in promoting recovery and reducing substance-related harm. Furthermore, conceptual solutions for enhancing public health outcomes emphasize the importance of a comprehensive and holistic approach. This includes addressing social determinants of health, promoting community engagement, and fostering collaboration between diverse stakeholders, including governments, healthcare providers, and community organizations. This review highlights the necessity of adopting culturally sensitive approaches to substance use treatment to effectively address the complex interplay between culture, health beliefs, and treatment outcomes. By recognizing and respecting cultural diversity, we can develop more inclusive and effective strategies to mitigate the impact of substance use disorders on individuals and communities worldwide.

Healing with Sound – Osteoarthritis

This paper presents osteoarthritis from a medical and holistic perspective. An explanation of the ancient practice of healing with sound illustrates the positive impact on the anatomical structure of the Human Energy Field (HEF).

Traditional healing for physical and mental problems in the Arab region: past and current practices.

Exploring traditional healing practices in the Arab world unveils a diverse range of methods deeply rooted in ancient beliefs. Traditional healing practices encompass natural remedies, spiritual rituals and physical treatments. These historical practices persist today, reflecting their enduring relevance in Arab culture and their influence on healthcare approaches. Factors such as accessibility to traditional healing services, a lack of affordable medical treatment, cultural familiarity and a strong belief in the efficacy of traditional healing methods in treating mental problems contribute to their continued use. However, potential challenges arise when an exclusive reliance on traditional methods might hinder access to critical medical interventions. Thus, the need for further documentation and research into these deeply ingrained healing traditions is emphasised. Some research has focused on integrating these traditional approaches with the modern medical system, recognising their combined value in healthcare. This balanced approach holds the potential to bridge the gap between culturally informed traditional practices and contemporary medical treatments.

Exploration the Potential of Artificial Intelligence in Ayurveda Diagnostics through the Machine Learning Approach

Ayurveda, as a holistic system of medicine originating in ancient India, has gained recognition for its emphasis on balance and harmony within the body, mind, and spirit. This ancient healing practice has evolved over centuries and incorporates the concept of doshas – the biological energies that govern an individual's physical and mental well-being. Ayurveda focuses on bringing balance to the doshas through various treatments, including herbal medicines, lifestyle practices, and therapies. In recent years, Ayurveda has experienced significant growth and recognition in India, with the government promoting it as a mainstream healthcare system. Additionally, Ayurveda practices such as yoga and meditation have gained international acclaim. However, with the integration of modern technology, Ayurveda is poised to undergo further advancements. This research study explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning techniques in Ayurvedic treatment, particularly in the Saharanpur and Dehradun regions. With personalized and holistic healthcare being the cornerstone of Ayurveda, the use of AI and machine learning algorithms can improve accuracy in diagnosis and treatment. Leveraging large datasets, these algorithms can identify patterns and correlations that may not be immediately evident to human practitioners. The majority of respondents in the study have been practicing Ayurveda treatment consultancy for 1-3 years (60%), while 40% had more than 3 years of experience. 70% of respondents believed that AI-driven diagnosis approaches are more effective than generalized approaches in Ayurveda. It was revealed that all respondents used AI tools primarily for Sparshana diagnosis, with no utilization reported for Darshana or Prashna. 80% of respondents believed that the integration of AI into Ayurveda has the potential to greatly improve various aspects of the practice. 50% of respondents were satisfied, and 40% were very satisfied with the current AI-driven diagnosis, while 10% expressed neutrality. These findings indicate a general acceptance and optimism towards AI in Ayurveda diagnosis, with recognition of its potential benefits and effectiveness. However, further research is needed to explore specific factors contributing to satisfaction and neutrality, as well as any concerns or areas for improvement.

CROSS-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES ON PAIN: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF ANTHROPOLOGICAL RESEARCH

Cross-cultural perspectives on pain offer valuable insights into how different societies understand, experience, and manage pain. This comprehensive review of anthropological research explores the diverse cultural beliefs, practices, and experiences related to pain. It highlights the importance of considering cultural context in understanding pain perception and management. Anthropological research has revealed that pain is not solely a physiological phenomenon but is deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs, social norms, and individual experiences. Different cultures may have varying concepts of pain, with some viewing it as a natural part of life, while others see it as a punishment or a test of endurance. These cultural beliefs can influence how pain is expressed, perceived, and treated within a society. The review examines how cultural factors shape pain communication and expression. For example, some cultures may encourage stoicism and discourage the open expression of pain, while others may view pain expression as a way to seek sympathy and support. These cultural norms can impact how individuals seek help for their pain and how they interact with healthcare providers. Furthermore, the review explores cultural variations in pain management strategies. While some cultures may rely heavily on traditional healing practices such as herbal remedies or spiritual rituals, others may prioritize biomedical interventions. Understanding these cultural differences is essential for healthcare providers to provide culturally sensitive care and improve patient outcomes. Overall, this review underscores the importance of taking a holistic and culturally informed approach to pain management. By recognizing and respecting cultural differences in the experience and expression of pain, healthcare providers can deliver more effective and compassionate care to individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
 Keywords: Cross-Cultural, Perspective, Pain, Anthropological, Research.

Free Radical Scavenging, Anti-inflammatory and Antibacterial Activity of Acorus calamus Leaves Extract Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.

Background Herbal medicine, or phytotherapy, has been used for centuries in traditional healing practices to harness the therapeutic properties of different plant-derived elements. Acorus calamus, a perennial herbaceous plant, has significant historical importance in traditional medicine, specifically in Ayurveda, where it is referred to as "Vacha."This study investigates the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial characteristics of the A. calamus dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) extract. The objectives of the research are to provide valuable knowledge about the preparation of A. calamus DMSO extract and to explore its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. Materials and methods The A. calamus DMSO extract was derived from leaves, and its antioxidant activity was evaluated through the use of the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) assay, hydroxyl radical scavenging assay (H2O2 assay), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using the Bovine serum albumin (BSA) denaturation assay, egg albumin (EA) denaturation assay, and membrane stabilization assays. The antimicrobial activity was analyzed using the agar well diffusion technique and the time-kill curve assay. Results In DPPH and H2O2 tests, the DMSO extract of A. calamus showed significant antioxidant activity, near that ofstandard ascorbic acid. The FRAP assay demonstrated a correlation between the dose and the activity of reducing ferric ions. The A. calamusDMSO extract exhibited significant anti-inflammatory properties in BSA and EA denaturation assays, similar to the standard diclofenac sodium. The anti-inflammatory potential of the A. calamus DMSO extract was further confirmed through the membrane stabilization assay. The DMSO extract of A. calamus exhibited a significant inhibition zone against the pathogens Streptococcus mutans and Pseudomonas aeruginosa during the antimicrobial evaluation, surpassing the efficacy of the standard antibiotic. The time-kill curve assay validated the antibacterial efficacy, which was dependent on the concentration. Conclusion The A. calamus DMSO extract exhibited promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, supporting its traditional use in alternative medicine. The findings suggest its potential as a natural resource of compounds with bioactive properties for use in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.

Exploring spiritual values in forest management practices in the Netherlands

While forest-related spiritual values (forest spirituality) have long been incorporated in global forest-related policies and strategies, the significance of spiritual values in forest management practices remains little researched. This study investigates how spiritual values are articulated in forest management practices in the Netherlands. We applied a conceptual framework with 10 spiritual dimensions derived from religious scholarship to qualitatively explore the roles of these dimensions in practical forest management. Data were collected by interviewing public and private foresters across the Netherlands and analysed following a constructivist-interpretivist approach. As a result, we found four themes in which forest spirituality is articulated in management practices. Firstly, forests are increasingly used for ritual practices aimed at spiritual enrichment and health, with different consequences for public and private forest management. Secondly, ontological and relational considerations affect several forest management practices. These are mainly related to diverging views on tree felling and educational programmes aimed at nature connectedness. Thirdly, forest spirituality is expressed in local legends and historical monuments, deployed to raise the public's interest in forests. Fourthly, ineffabale aspects of spirituality emerge in references to unspecified spiritual experiences and occasional cases of intuitive forest management. We conclude that forest spirituality -entangled with broader ‘ecospiritual’ trends in society- is not only significant for nature experience but also -increasingly- for ritual and healing practices in forests, for connectedness with nature and for forest use such as tree planting and felling. In particular, public foresters increasingy have to reconcile their management with the ‘spiritual’ ideas and practices of a diversifying public.