Session 7: Complementary and alternative health care

Question 1

Discuss DIVINERS as traditional healers.

Answer 1

• diagnosis mysteries
• analyses causes of specific events
• interprets messages from ancestors
• gives medicine for diseases diagnosed by ancestors
• renders other services to the community

Question 2

Discuss HERBALISTS as traditional healers.

Answer 2

• acquired extensive knowledge of “magical”
  techniques
• prescribes medication for common ailments
• prevents and alleviates misfortune and disaster
• healing through herbal medicine

Question 3

Discuss FAITH HEALERS as traditional healers.

Answer 3

• syncretism
• presence and power of ancestors
• accepts supernatural explanation for disease and
  adversity
• witchcraft and sorcery are significant causes of
  disease
• Moya theology

Question 4

Discuss TRADITIONAL MIDWIVES as traditional healers.

Answer 4

• in isolated/secluded areas
• essential in remote areas bc of lack of westernized
  health care services
• in semi-urban and urban areas people may still prefer
  midwives
• part of human resources in traditional sector