Curanderismo: Traditional Healing Using Plants from Coursera

COURSE DESCRIPTION

As one of four courses on Curanderismo, the art of Hispanic/Latino traditional medicine, this course focuses specifically on the use of plants in traditional healing. As an educational and cultural platform, this course will share the history, influences, and contributions of traditional medicine. Trained traditional healers will share their knowledge of the healing properties of plants commonly found in the Southwestern United States and Mexico through practical applications that can still be used today.

Learners will not become certified traditional healers at the completion of this course but will be able apply basic principles or traditional medicine to approach health and illnesses. They will become familiar specifically with the use of plants for the digestive and nervous systems; how to prepare tinctures and microdosis for healing; how to use juice therapy and geotherapy (clay combined with plants) for treatments; and the use of herbal oils and herbal smoke for healing.

Future Curanderismo courses include:

Traditional Healing of the Body: Intestinal blockage empacho, firecupping ventosas, and hydrotherapy (healing with water)

Traditional Healing of the Mind, Energy and Spirit: Sweatlodge Temazcal, Energetic/Spiritual cleansings Limpias, and Laugh therapy risaterapia.

Global and Cultural Influences of Traditional Healing: African tradition, Afro Latino from Cuba and Puerto Rico, Native American spiritual cleansings and Mayan acupuncture.

REQUIRED TEXTS

Curanderismo: The Art of Traditional Medicine without Borders by Eliseo Torres

Curandero: Traditional Healers of Mexico and the Southwest by Eliseo Torres with Imanol Miranda

Where to buy:

https://he.kendallhunt.com/product/curanderismo-art-traditional-medicine-without-borders

https://he.kendallhunt.com/product/curandero-traditional-healers-mexico-and-southwest

OPTIONAL TEXTS

Curandero: A life in Mexican Folk Healing by Eliseo Torres & Tim Sawyer

Healing with Herbs & Rituals: A Mexican Tradition, Eliseo Torres, edited by Tim Sawyer

Where to buy:

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/curandero-torres-eliseo-cheo/1120135382?ean=9780826336415&st=PLA&sid=BNB_1341481610&sourceId=PLAGoNA&dpid=tdtve346c&2sid=Google_c&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3_6LmYev3gIViuNkCh3IPgUyEAQYASABEgLYXfD_BwE

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/healing-with-herbs-and-rituals-torres-eliseo-cheo/1120135381?ean=9780826339621&st=PLA&sid=BNB_825204424&sourceId=PLAGoNA&dpid=tdtve346c&2sid=Google_c&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrrvswYev3gIVBsRkCh3BXQCHEAQYASABEgLnl_D_BwE

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Curanderismo: The Art of Traditional Medicine, Interviews with Traditional Healers.

In this module, students will learn basic concepts about traditional medicine. They will view interviews on Curanderismo from scholars, Drs. Eliseo “Cheo” Torres and Arturo Ornelas and curanderas Tonita Gonzales and Rita Navarrete.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Appeals to students interested in Southwest Hispanic/Latino culture and traditional medicine

Introduces the traditional use of plants within Hispanic/Latino culture and communities

Demonstrates practical applications of traditional medicine that can still be used today

Provides interviews with traditional healers, sharing their knowledge of plant healing properties

Reviews summary

Introduction to traditional plant healing

According to learners, this course offers a rich and unique introduction to Curanderismo, focusing specifically on the use of plants in traditional healing. Reviewers frequently highlight the value of learning from knowledgeable traditional healers who share cultural history and practical applications. The demonstrations of techniques like preparing tinctures, oils, and using clay (geotherapy) are often mentioned as particularly useful and fascinating. While providing a solid cultural and historical foundation, students note that it is an introductory course and does not provide certification or delve deeply into the scientific basis behind the plant uses. Some mention the cost of required texts as an additional consideration.

Concentrates on traditional rather than scientific.

"This is more historical and cultural, which is fine, but not what I needed for my practice."

"I wish there was more scientific explanation of why the plants work, but that wasn't the focus."

"It's a wonderful introduction to the traditional side, less so on the modern scientific view."

Includes useful practical healing applications.

"...and practical tips from real healers. The demonstrations were fascinating."

"The sections on tinctures and oils were very useful. I learned practical applications."

"Tonita shows the preparation of some alcohol-based tinctures and water-based microdosis..."

"Rita and Tonita offer a combination of fruits, plants... Tonita demonstrates Geotherapy..."

Learn from authentic traditional healers.

"So much cultural richness and practical tips from real healers."

"The interviews with the healers were the highlight. Their knowledge is immense."

"The instructors are clearly experts. Their wisdom is shared generously."

"Learning directly from trained traditional healers was invaluable."

Provides valuable cultural and historical context.

"Amazing course! So much cultural richness and practical tips..."

"Loved learning the history and cultural context. It's a great introduction..."

"This course is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of healing."

"It felt like a respectful presentation of traditional knowledge and history."

Books add to the overall cost.

"Required books were a bit expensive. Worthwhile, but adds to the price."

"The required books added a significant cost. While useful, maybe they could have..."

Does not provide formal healing certification.

"It's a great introduction, but don't expect to become a certified healer from this."

"Learners will not become certified traditional healers at the completion of this course..."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Curanderismo: Traditional Healing Using Plants with these activities:

Read foundational text prior to the course

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Builds foundational understanding of traditional medicine and its history in the Southwestern United States and Mexico. Provides context for the rest of the course.

View Curanderismo: The Art of Traditional Medicine... on Amazon

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Purchase and receive the book
Read the introduction and chapters 1 and 2
Make notes or highlight key concepts

Create a compilation of resources on Curanderismo

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Organizes and supplements course materials, enhancing accessibility and understanding.

Browse courses on Traditional Healing

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Gather materials from the course, including notes, assignments, and readings
Organize materials into categories or topics
Create a digital or physical compilation for easy reference

Identify common plants used in traditional healing

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Enhances understanding of the healing properties of plants commonly found in the Southwestern United States and Mexico.

Browse courses on Medicinal Plants

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Review notes on common plants used in traditional healing
Create flashcards or a study guide
Take practice quizzes or use online flashcards

Four other activities

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Discuss different healing techniques with a group

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Encourages active engagement and peer-to-peer learning in exploring different healing techniques.

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Find a group or partner to discuss with
Prepare some topics or questions to discuss
Share experiences and perspectives on different healing techniques

Seek guidance from traditional healers or practitioners

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Connects students with experienced practitioners, providing valuable insights and mentorship in traditional healing.

Browse courses on Curanderismo

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Attend local traditional healing events or workshops
Reach out to traditional healers or practitioners in your area
Build relationships and ask for guidance and advice

Develop a presentation on the benefits of Curanderismo

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Develops communication skills and fosters a deeper understanding of the course material.

Browse courses on Traditional Healing

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Review the history and principles of Curanderismo
Identify key benefits and applications of Curanderismo
Create a slide deck or outline for your presentation
Practice presenting your findings

Volunteer at a local health clinic or community garden

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Provides practical experience in applying traditional healing techniques and connecting with the community.

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Find a local health clinic or community garden that aligns with your interests
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
Attend training or orientation programs
Participate regularly in volunteer activities

Career center

Learners who complete Curanderismo: Traditional Healing Using Plants will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Herbalist

Herbalists are practitioners who use plants to treat and prevent illness. They may work in their own clinics or in conjunction with other healthcare professionals. This course may be useful for Herbalists who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Herbalist

Naturopathic Doctor

Naturopathic Doctors are licensed healthcare professionals who use natural therapies to treat and prevent illness. They may use herbs, acupuncture, and other traditional healing methods. This course may be useful for Naturopathic Doctors who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Naturopathic Doctor

Acupuncturist

Acupuncturists are practitioners who use acupuncture to treat and prevent illness. They may work in their own clinics or in conjunction with other healthcare professionals. This course may be useful for Acupuncturists who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices.

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Health Educator

Health Educators teach people about how to improve their health and avoid disease. They may work in schools, community centers, or hospitals. This course may be useful for Health Educators who want to learn more about traditional healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Massage Therapist

Massage Therapists use massage to relieve pain, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. They may work in spas, clinics, or hospitals. This course may be useful for Massage Therapists who want to learn more about traditional healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Chiropractor

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who use spinal adjustments to treat and prevent illness. They may work in their own clinics or in conjunction with other healthcare professionals. This course may be useful for Chiropractors who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices.

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Nutritionist

Nutritionists help people improve their health by providing them with personalized nutrition advice. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice. This course may be useful for Nutritionists who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Musician

Musicians create music, including songs, instrumental pieces, and operas. They may work in a variety of settings, including studios, concert halls, and schools. This course may be useful for Musicians who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications and provide information about their use. They may work in pharmacies, hospitals, or other healthcare settings. This course may be useful for Pharmacists who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Registered Nurse

Registered Nurses provide nursing care to patients in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They may work under the supervision of a physician or other healthcare professional. This course may be useful for Registered Nurses who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Social Worker

Social Workers help people cope with difficult life circumstances and improve their overall well-being. They may work in schools, hospitals, or other community settings. This course may be useful for Social Workers who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Teacher

Teachers educate students in a variety of subjects and grade levels. They may work in public or private schools, or in other educational settings. This course may be useful for Teachers who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Writer

Writers create written content for a variety of purposes, including news articles, blog posts, and marketing materials. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or other organizations. This course may be useful for Writers who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Yoga Instructor

Yoga Instructors teach yoga classes to help people improve their physical and mental health. They may work in studios, gyms, or community centers. This course may be useful for Yoga Instructors who want to learn more about traditional healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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Artist

Artists create visual art, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings. They may work in a variety of settings, including studios, galleries, and museums. This course may be useful for Artists who want to learn more about traditional Hispanic/Latino healing practices and how to use plants for medicinal purposes.

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