HOME

MAS 435

This interdisciplinary course is a survey of various popular and Indigenous medicinal systems that fall under the rubric known as Mexican Traditional Medicine (MTM). Mexican scholar Carlos Viesca Treviño defines MTM as medicinal knowledge(s) that emanate from Mesoamerican world views and that have adapted to historical and social conditions throughout the Americas. This course explores various expressions of MTM, with a special emphasis on Indigenous medicinal approaches to healing that exemplify both continuities and adaptations. We compare across cultures some shared values in various Indigenous systems as well as how they are uniquely expressed in contemporary settings. We also draw from the local knowledge holders of Indigenous populations from this region to compare various approaches in traditional medicine. This course introduces students to the relationship between place, healing and cosmology in Indigenous-based cultures that maintain curing traditions and practices. We explore some of the theories, relationships and philosophies that are used in MTM –such as fluid and multiplying dualities, hot and cold, body-cosmos, plants and culture, food as medicine, susto-soul loss and principles of renewal -- as well as applied knowledge and practices that are useful for self care and community wellness. For instance, students will learn 20 herbs and how to make teas, medicinal baths, poultices, pomades and syrups. As a promotora of MTM and herbalist, Dr. Gonzales does some demonstrations, as may other practitioners of Indigenous medicine.

MEXICAN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE