Curanderism

Curanderism is the term used to refer to the folk healing practices found in many Mexican American communities. The term derives from the Spanish verb “curar” which means “to heal.” Curanderism views illness as comprising both natural and supernatural elements. Thus, curanderism intervenes on various levels, depending on the nature of the illness being healed.

The historical influences of curanderism can be traced back to the folk-healing practices of early Aztec and pre-Columbian cultures. Eventually, these practices would fuse with Spanish Judeo-Christian beliefs as well as the practices of other European countries. Elements of the witchcraft practiced in Germany, for example, can be seen in certain forms of modern curanderism. The curanderism that is currently practiced in the United States (U.S.) and Mexico, then, is a unique amalgamation of beliefs and practices produced by both the Old and New World.

The practitioners of curanderism are curanderos(healers). These individuals...