Traditional Healing Systems

Course overview

Traditional medicine has a rich and extensive history dating back thousands of years. Used by the majority of the worlds population, traditional healing systems include a diverse collection of philosophies, practices, spiritual and manual therapies, incorporating plant, animal, and/or mineral-based medicines. Most often used by indigenous persons determined to preserve, develop, and transmit their knowledge to future generations, traditional medicine is increasingly popular due to its accessibility and affordability, its holistic focus, and because of its emphasis on community and cultural values. The outcome of this course is for the learner to discuss major forms of global traditional healing systems including Ayurveda, traditional Chinese medicine, Native American healing, South African healing, curanderismo, and Central and South American healing traditions.