Health/Alternative/Folk Medicine

Health / Alternative / Folk Medicine /

Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary defines folk medicine as "traditional medicine as practiced nonprofessionally especially by people isolated from modern medical services and usually involving the use of plant-derived remedies on an empirical basis". As stated by David J. Hufford, professor in the Department of Humanities at the Penn State College of Medicine: Folk medicine is a form of complementary and alternative medicine that relies heavily (although not exclusively) on oral tradition. Strongly influenced by cultural norms and values, folk medicine generally comprises the "unofficial" or "lay" health beliefs and practices found in all societies. (Hufford DJ. "Folk medicine and health culture in contemporary society". Primary Care. 1997;24:723-741, cited in Report 13 of the Council on Scientific Affairs (A-97), American Medical Assocation)

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Ranked Sites

Folk Medicine: UCLA Folklore Archive Resource

Includes searchable database by keyword, usage, condition, belief, date, region or ethnicity of origin.

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Skin Cancer Treatment Alternative Using Topical Pancreatin Enzymes

Describes home remedy using a popular contact lens cleaning solution mixed with aloe vera gel.

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Toenail Fungus Remedies

Lists several easy and inexpensive ways to get rid of toenail fungus.

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My Home Remedies

A forum where readers can submit their own home remedies as well as rate and comment on others' submissions.

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The Vinegar Website

Folk uses, medicinal qualities, home remedies, history, and beauty and household uses of vinegar.

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Simple Remedies

Traditional folk remedies and ideas to treat common and not-so common ailments. Generated by readers of Simplitudes.com.

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Home Remedies for Common Ailments

Information on causes, symptoms and diet conditions for common ailments and diseases. Also provides information on health benefits from common ingredients like honey, garlic, aloe vera and other items.