Traditional Medicine in Africa

In: The annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, Band 583, S. 173-176

Abstract

Traditional medicine is the main, & often the only, source of medical care for a great proportion of the population of the developing world. Systems of traditional medicine are usually rooted in long-standing cultural traditions, take a holistic approach to health, & are community based. The World Health Organization has long recognized the central role traditional systems of care can play in efforts to provide primary health care, especially in rural areas. This article provides an overview of national policies adopted by African governments following World Health Organization recommendations for the incorporation of traditional & allopathic systems of care. 12 References. [Copyright 2002 Sage Publications, Inc.]