Aboriginal
Aboriginal Medicine
Aboriginal medicine (pronunciation: /ˌæb.əˈrɪdʒ.ɪ.nəl ˈmɛd.ɪ.sɪn/) refers to the traditional healing practices and beliefs of Aboriginal Australians. The term is also used to describe the health practices of other indigenous peoples around the world.
Etymology
The term "Aboriginal" is derived from the Latin word "Aborigines", meaning "original inhabitants". The term "medicine" comes from the Latin "medicina", meaning "the healing art".
Related Terms
- Bush medicine: A form of traditional medicine used by Aboriginal Australians, based on the use of local plants and animals.
- Dreamtime: A complex network of spiritual beliefs and stories that form the foundation of Aboriginal culture and medicine.
- Totem: An object, animal, or plant that is believed to have spiritual significance in Aboriginal culture and is often used in healing practices.
- Songline: A path across the land or sky, marked by landmarks, which is used in Aboriginal spiritual beliefs and healing practices.
Aboriginal Medicine Practices
Aboriginal medicine practices are deeply rooted in the spiritual beliefs of the Aboriginal people. They believe that health and illness are related to the balance between the individual, the community, and the natural and spiritual world.
Treatment often involves the use of bush medicine, healing rituals, and the guidance of a traditional healer. These healers, also known as Ngangkari in the Western Desert language, are highly respected members of the Aboriginal community who have been trained from a young age in the healing arts.
Modern Use and Recognition
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the value of Aboriginal medicine in modern healthcare. Many of the plants used in bush medicine have been found to have medicinal properties, and there is increasing interest in integrating traditional Aboriginal healing practices into mainstream healthcare.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Aboriginal
- Wikipedia's article - Aboriginal
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