Concepts and treatment modalities for hypertension by traditional and faith healers in the Northern Province, South Africa

Abstract

Clinical experiences and some research findings indicate that traditional and faith healers play a role in the management of hypertension in Africa. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to assess the concepts and treatment modalities for hypertension among traditional and faith healers in the Northern Province in South Africa. Specific objectives included: (1) to identify local names for hypertension, (2) clinical manifestations and causative concepts, (3) curability and treatment modalities, (4) help-seeking behaviour of hypertensive patients, and (5) sources of information on hypertension by healers. The descriptive and explorative study design used snowball-sampling techniques to interview the healers. The sample consisted of 50 traditional healers (13 females and 37 males) and 50 faith healers (12 females and 38 males). They were interviewed on (1) local terminology for hypertension, (2) symptoms and signs, (3) causes, (4) curability, (5) treatment, (6) help-seeking behaviour of patients, and (7) sources of information about hypertension. Results indicate that all healers were familiar with "hypertension", however, not all of them have attended to patients suffering from hypertension (15 traditional and 11 faith healers have not attended to a hypertensive client). The perceived causes of hypertension by both traditional and faith healers could be divided into (1) diet, (2) heredity, (3) supernatural, and (4) psychological. Most traditional healers (92%) and faith healers (90%) indicated that hypertension is curable. Traditional healers mainly used different herbs, and faith healers prayer for treatment of hypertension. The change of diet, bloodletting and rituals were mentioned by both traditional and faith healers. Tea and minerals were only used by faith healers. It was discovered that traditional and faith healers do seem to play a relevant role in the management of hypertension, which has important implications for health care workers.


Health SA Gesondheid Vol.6(3) 2001: 59-67