
Samoan traditional healers' holistic approach, diet expertise, and spirituality attract patients
Traditional healers have a key role in Samoan society, say experts who interviewed 14 Taulasea in Samoa and Aotearoa. The Taulasea said their practise has a deep spiritual aspect and they consider it a freely offered 'act of service', expecting only that patients commit to following treatment plans. Many reflected on the shift away from traditional food and active lifestyles, and their methods included diet advice, plant medicine, and prescribing routines. They emphasised active listening for a holistic approach to patient health, and recognised the potential of Western medicine alongside their practise. The researchers say we need a model of care where Pacific people can access the best of both traditional and Westernised healing.
Journal/conference: Kōtuitui: New Zealand Journal of Social Sciences Online
Research: Paper
Organisation/s: Massey University
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New Zealand
Pacific
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Expert Reaction
These comments have been collated by the Science Media Centre to provide a variety of expert perspectives on this issue. Feel free to use these quotes in your stories. Views expressed are the personal opinions of the experts named. They do not represent the views of the SMC or any other organisation unless specifically stated.
Professor Riz Firestone, Professor in Public and Pacific Health at Massey University and lead author of this study, comments: