For centuries, African medicine and practices have been used to treat a myriad of illnesses and conditions, both physical and spiritual. ‘
Years of observation have provided anecdotal results, which have led to scepticism and even demonisation by Western scientific thought.
However, there’s a growing interest in the wellness space towards holistic and natural remedies, supplementing mainstream medicine. Indigenous knowledge takes into account elements such as community, connection to the land, respecting the environment, and spirituality, whereas Western thought often treats those things in isolation and disregards spiritual phenomena completely.
Why indigenous knowledge is important
This wisdom includes practices that local communities have developed over generations. It’s a testament to how communities sustained themselves by conserving the environment, cultivating food, managing agriculture, all while preserving cultural knowledge. South Africa is simply too diverse for us not to consider our many cultures’ wisdom.
Food as medicine
The way to incorporate African wisdom into your wellness journey is by being intentional about the foods you eat, but also how they’re prepared.
Here are some practical ways to do it:
- Prioritise seasonal foods – Eat what’s locally available and what’s in season. Grow your own garden if possible, or learn about foraging.
- Learn about traditional foods – Connect to your culture by keeping traditional food preparation alive.
- Use food as medicine – Incorporate healing herbs into your lifestyle as a way to take part in your own healing.
- Reimagine traditional foods – Cook them in different and innovative ways, while celebrating heritage.
Mental health practices to try
- Embrace Ubuntu – prioritise community; share mealtimes and schedule time to connect with others.
- Consult traditional healers – they address health through a spiritual and ancestral lens; cleansing can have great mental health benefits.
- Use indigenous plants for healing – Impepho is a natural mood enhancer; use it in a tea for relaxation and anxiety release.
- Include song and rhythm in your healing – drumming, clapping or movement are proven to be therapeutic; consider traditional music that resonates with your heritage.
- Balance the physical, emotional and spiritual – build a lifestyle that prioritises nutrition, prayer/meditation and creativity.
The bottom line
It doesn’t mean that we must disregard mainstream medicine; in fact, it would be irresponsible to do so. (Consult your doctor before taking any supplements or alternative medicine) However, we can also consider our own modes of healing, keep our traditions alive through the foods we eat, the customs we practise, and ensure we play an active part in our own health and wellness.
Also see: A soulful celebration of South African heritage at Seven Colours Eatery
