Native American Indians Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Native American Indians - Essay Example Many of them believe that diseases and illnesses are forms of punishment from the gods from making them angry. Some believed that if a person plays his part in his environment and conduct himself so as to please the gods he will be spared from illnesses and misfortunes. Others believe that these are a part of the cycle of life. In earlier times their little contact with the wider society helped to form some of their beliefs. Traditionally, the Indians put diseases into two general classifications. One was diseases that were termed as environmental causes such as injuries, intestinal disorders and rheumatism (Trafzer 96). These were illnesses and diseases that could be attributed to apparent causes. The treatment for these types of illnesses was found in the natural environment. This included animals, medicinal plants, and minerals. Many of these natural remedies were kept in every home and a knowledgeable family member would use the appropriate remedy to according to the disease or illness. The second type of disease was that caused by supernatural forces. The causes of these diseases were not as apparent or easy to determine as the former category of diseases and illnesses. The Indians had their own health personnel to cure these illnesses. The healer had to possess certain characteristics before he was allowed to practice. One of the major qualifications was to be honest, brave and humble. These practitioners were also called to intervene in the treatment of those who had illnesses that were not readily cured by normal home remedies. Some of the methods used by the practitioners or tribal healers were charms, dances and prayers. The tribal healers are normally in possession of paraphernalia including animal parts. These were supposed to ward of evil spirits. The Indian believed in a number of supernatural causes of diseases. Prevalent among these causes were sorcery, taboo violation, and soul loss. They believed that any illness is