Saturday, November 20, 2010

TRANSFORMATIONAL TRAVEL - BALI- Video 3- Pathways to Health




PATHWAYS TO HEALTH

Before the Second World War, nearly all Balinese families were using traditional

medicine, for health maintenance, or for curing light illness through self-medication.

Mastering of the art and knowledge was in the hands of the mother or

Grandmother, who got the art and knowledge from their mothers orally, and by practicing it.

During my time in Bali, I found evidence of this fact still in the culture.

Jamu, which is predominantly herbal medicine, made from natural materials, such as parts of plants such as roots, leaves and bark, and fruit. Was being sold on the streets and in the Markets. These juice-like concoctions would help Good Immune System, Functioning Liver, Good Digestion, Mental Clarity, and Relief from Arthritis & Overall Wellness.

 There are many Herbal Garden Tours  and Nature Herb Walks that would give tourists an opportunity to learn more about the wide range of native plants & herbs used for healing. Nature was the Balinese’ medicine cabinet. 
 
I was so fortunate to have a unique experience while visiting a small village in the Bedugul area.  My tour guide was the village’s medicine man. During our treks, he was continually getting calls on his cell phone from villagers that were sick and needed counseling. He taught me a lot. Pointing out herbs and plants frequently during our treks through the Jungle. In this area of Bali, they did not have the luxury of going to the doctor, so they relied solely on Traditional and Natural Remedies. 
From broken bones to a colicky baby, Ram, my guide had a remedy.