Apr 20th, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Title
Examining the Present Day Use of Traditional Native American Medicine in Tribes of the Northwest
Faculty Sponsor
Margaret (Marty) Downey, PhD, RN; and Dr. Ed Baker
Information
Background: A study done in Brazil investigated the local traditional medicines and found that many were being used in conventional medicines. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) some of the primary concerns regarding traditional Native medicines, including Native American medicines, are retaining the knowledge for future use and the sustainability of the plant resources that are chiefly grown in the wild. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to better understand the uses of traditional medicine in Native American communities, the barriers faced with traditional medicine use, and the issues regarding the preservation of these medicines. Methods: Community-identified Native American traditional medicine users will be interviewed and findings compared.
Conclusion: It will be found how the the practice of traditional use of medicines are passed on to the next generation in the Northwest, as well as challenges faced by those that use traditional medicines. Methods to improve the retention and sustainability of these practices is also expected