Reference no: EM131456895

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Discussion: African American traditional healing , they had more spiritual beliefs and practices such as comfort, coping and support which were more effective. The types of herbs they used were Sage, Mustard, Pennyroyal, Elder, and Flaxseed. Italian Americans believed in potion makers and people having healing hands, with touch and manipulation it was thought as a healing process. The types of herbs and plants they used were Chamomile, Basil, Lavender, Fennel, Lemon and Garlic.

Three illnesses that African Americans used these herbs and plants to treat we're colds, fevers, and pneumonia. Three illnesses that Italian Americans used these herbs and plants to treat we're fever, digestive tract, and stress.

African Americans: Mustard- put on a sick person's chest to draw blood to the surface and decrease congestion. Sage- made into a gargle to treat sorethroats; treat colic in infants. Pennyroyal- used to fight colds, reduce fever.

Italian Americans: Basil- reduce fever. Lavender- the calming scent that cures stress and stress related headaches. Fennel- aids digestion, stimulates appetite and relieves flatulence. Italians purchased some herbs from self-appointed healers that were trained in potion making, and some brought from local markets. African Americans made some by drying them out, oils were extracted from plants and purchased from local markets.

The interaction depends both upon the herbal and "allopathic" medicine, it could enhance the effects depending if both are used to treat the same condition. On the other hand herbal medicine can interfere with and reduce the effects of an allopathic medicine and vice-versa. Sometimes the interactions can be very dangerous.