Since time immemorial, human beings have sought methods of curing the many illnesses that plague us. This ancient practice is referred to in English as medicine – the science of preserving health by preventing or treating injury and disease. Not every community developed the same methods of curing diseases. This was due to differences in geographical location, which determined the prevalent illnesses and their treatments.
Although it might seem like Kenya now relies on modern medicinal practices, the opposite is true. A study by the World Health Organisation revealed that a whopping 70% of the Kenyan population still uses traditional herbal medication. The Centre for Traditional Medicine and Drug Research was established in Nairobi to study and preserve traditional healing practices. In 2016, even more validity was given to traditional medicines when the Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Practices Act was passed to protect the intellectual property rights of Kenyan herbalists and their communities.
Through this collection, we will discover the unique ways in which Kenyan communities cured and continue to cure their illnesses. Join us in discovering our local medicines and appreciating their amazing healing properties. Welcome to #DawaZetu.
