Medical Anthropology

Medical anthropology, a relatively new field, focuses on the evolution of human culture, global health, and healthcare beliefs. Traditional medicine is an integral part of this field and refers to the generations-old knowledge that utilizes plant-based medicines and healing rituals to treat ailments. Traditional medicines are often passed down orally, although they also may include written texts and pharmacopoeias. Traditional medicine has become increasingly important in recent years as many people in developing nations lack affordable access to conventional Western medicine. As such, traditional medicines are often more accessible, affordable, and culturally acceptable forms of medicine. Medical anthropology, when looking at traditional medicine, pays particular attention to the contextual factors in which traditional medicines are practiced. These factors include the cultural, environmental, and economic influences that shape a traditional medicine system, as well as an understanding of the meanings and uses of specific medicines and rituals to different communities. Medical anthropology also focuses on how different cultures understand and respond to conventional Western medical treatments, as well as how their expectations, needs, or preferences guide their decision making. By bringing awareness to the traditional medicines used throughout the world, medical anthropologists hope to inform global health interventions and policy. Finally, medical anthropology also seeks to understand, document, and explain traditional medicines’ efficacy and effectiveness. By critically considering the strengths and limitations of traditional medicines in combination with conventional Western medicine, medical anthropologists hope to combat health inequalities globally.