Cultural Diversity: The Importance of Understanding and Embracing Cultural Diversity

The concept presented regarding Ethnomedicine is undoubtedly resourceful as has been alleged in the discussion. It is true that many cultures especially those which are indigenous in nature rely on this as a means of authenticating their therapeutic beliefs. Cultural beliefs are indeed studied and exemplified through Ethnomedicine. In addition to this, however, this form of medication offers individuals an opportunity to undertake a comparison of their traditional practices. Besides, Ethnomedicine has come to be accepted as a traditional form of therapy. In essence, the body and mind are connected and used to extend healing ( Edberg, 2013 ). Aspects such as massage therapy, incorporation of spices and herbs are some of the most common elements in Ethnomedicine. The same form of medication can be found in the Asian world whereby it is dubbed eastern medicine in countries such as China. Similar healing techniques are utilized with specific focus being placed on the mind. Acupuncture is, nevertheless, established as the most common form of therapeutic healing. 

As Ethnomedicine extends to the western world, one can discern that it is rather modernized as has been revealed. In the United States, for instance, practices such as yoga, meditation and also aromatherapy are very common. The popularity of Ethnomedicine in the west is mostly due to the stress relieving ability that the practices affiliated to it provide. Indians prefer to name it Ayurvedic medicine where the application of massage and oils is very common. One should also note that practices affiliated with traditional forms of healing has been around for centuries and currently, due to the advancements in various societies, most of them are seeking for alternative means which can manage to remodel the concept ( Edberg, 2013 ). Originality is, therefore, maintained by those individuals who have withstood the test of time and sought to maintain the utilization of herbs and other traditional methods of healing regardless of the advancement in medicine. 

Reference 

Edberg, M. (2013).  Essentials of health behavior . Jones & Bartlett Publishers.