The Traditional Approach to the Management of Diseases in Ghana

Abstract

This paper deals with the traditional approach to the management of diseases in Ghana. It initially explains the concept of disease, which is understood as a disintegration of the spiritual and physical component o.lthe human being. It then traces the history of traditional medical practice in Ghana. The various types of diseases and how they are managed are then analysed. The various types of traditional medical practitioners ident(fied include traditional birth attendants, traditional herbalists, diviners, traditional surgeons and traditional psychiatrics. Finally, the paper examines traditional health care in Ghana and attempts made by the health authorities to integrate traditional health care into the orthodox medical practice in the country. The problems associated with traditional medicine and the new developments that seem to pose a threat to the use of traditional medicine in the country are also analysed.