Traditional African Medicine and the Optimal Theory: Universal Insights for Health and Healing

Abstract

This article explores the methods and practices of traditional African medicine in light of current research in modern physics and neuroscience using optimal theory, which comes from anAfrocentric culturalframe of reference, as the basis for interpretation. The utility of examining data from multicultural frames of reference for the purpose of cross-fertilization is illustrated. The Vimbuza healing practices of the Tumbuka people of northern Malawi and the changing significance of those practices when examined from the assumptions of optimal theory (Myers, 1988) provide the core data describedv The paradox of cultural imperialism, transition, and assimilation for mental health and healing amongAfrican people throughout the world is discussed in terms of implications for future research.