There is no single source of information on 'Indian medicine', just as there's
no single 'Indian language' or 'Indian culture'. The Métis, Inuit, and
First Nations all have their own views on healing and healing practices. There
are also differences within each group. To find out more about the healing practices
of a specific Aboriginal Peoples, contact a person with the appropriate traditional
teachings and wisdom. These people are called Elders and hold a special place
in Aboriginal cultures as knowledge holders, teachers, and guides. Aboriginal
Peoples have great respect for the wisdom that we gain as we age, but age isn't
always what makes an Elder.
If you live in or near an First Nation, Métis or Inuit community, these
people will be well known. If you live in a city, you'll probably be able to
find Elders through organizations like Friendship Centres, Healing and Wellness
Centres or universities' Native or indigenous studies programs.
Where do I go if I need treatment?
If you live in or near an First Nation, Métis or Inuit community, you'll
need to contact a community member or Elder for guidance. You have to have a
relationship of trust with the community and the Elder in order for them to
feel comfortable with helping you find the help you need. This may mean that
you'll need to visit a number of times before you're taken to meet a Healer.
In some cases, the Elder may help you directly. If the Elder can't help you,
he or she will be able to tell you who you need to go to and the steps you need
to take. For example, for some First Nations and Métis, you must make
an offering or gift of tobacco when seeking help from an Elder or Healer, but
this isn't the case for all First Nations or Métis and isn't an Inuit
tradition.
If you live in a city, you can go to a healing and wellness centre like the
Wabano Centre in Ottawa or the Aboriginal Healing and Wellness Centre in Winnipeg.
Friendship Centres are also an excellent way to establish relationships with
community
What do I do once I arrive with the healer?
The formal steps you go through when using traditional healing practices are
different for each community and Nation. Find a community member or Elder who's
willing to help you, build a relationship with them and follow the guidance
that's given. The relationship of trust and respect between you and the Healer
or Elder is very important. Healers don't 'see' patients or 'prescribe' cures;
it's considered inappropriate and disrespectful to approach them just for this
purpose. It's customary in all Aboriginal cultures to give a gift to recognize
the time and knowledge that the Elder or Healer is sharing.
Can I use these traditional medicines when I am also using western-style
doctors and hospitals?
Traditional healing practices take many forms. They can include storytelling,
songs, dance, ceremonies, dialogue and uses of plants and animals. The actions
a Healer suggests may not be what you would expect for a medicinal treatment,
although using herbal and animal products might be recommended. These have been
used for thousands of years and are very safe to use.
If you are taking prescription medication and are also thinking about using
traditional Aboriginal medicines, you need to let both your doctor and the Healer
know. Combining treatments may have unforeseen results. This also applies to
non-medicinal or dietary supplements.
Traditional Aboriginal healing practices have been used for thousands of years
with the guidance of knowledgeable and well-respected Elders and Healers and
continue to be used by Aboriginal people throughout the country.
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