Med Law. 1989 ; 7(5): 523-31.

Towards the legalization of African folk therapy.

Sanders AJ.

'Folk therapy' is distinguished from western scientific medical practice, and the role of the former is defined in its context. 'Diviners', 'medicinemen', 'witches' and 'sorcerers' are defined and distinguished. The colonial influence and its legacies in Africa are examined, as are the post-colonial adjustments. The crucial question is whether folk therapy should be legally recognized and controlled. The conclusion reached is that this might be a premature, and therefore detrimental, step at present, as it might endanger the usefulness and survival of a valuable cultural heritage.