Bahamian Bush Medicine: Fact or Folklore

The practice of bush medicine in The Bahamas is shrouded in mystery. This literature review is not an attempt to verify or disclaim the beliefs as to the authenticity of the healing powers of native plants but rather to give a brief informative overview of the rich cultural heritage of the Bahamian...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Edith Gibson
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: University of the Bahamas 2015-09-01
Series:International Journal of Bahamian Studies
Subjects:
Online Access:https://journals.sfu.ca/cob/index.php/files/article/view/259
Description
Summary:The practice of bush medicine in The Bahamas is shrouded in mystery. This literature review is not an attempt to verify or disclaim the beliefs as to the authenticity of the healing powers of native plants but rather to give a brief informative overview of the rich cultural heritage of the Bahamian people. The sources used in this review include statements from local inhabitants whose belief systems are so deeply entrenched that they are confident that their very survival and that of their ancestors hinged on the medicinal powers of bush medicine. Included is historical evidence explaining why bush medicine became an integral part of Bahamian culture as well as scientific evidence of its effectiveness and curative properties.
ISSN:2220-5772