On Display
An ivory enema syringe from Sri Lanka dating from the late 1700s. An enema (vasthi) introduces fluid into the lower bowel via the anus. A single Ayurvedic treatment might involve several enemas using oils mixed with different medicinal herbs – depend
A bronze acupuncture training model used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for teaching the position of acupuncture points on the body. The model was covered in a thick layer of wax and filled with water or mercury. Students pressed acupuncture needl
This wooden figure of a man nearly a metre tall was used in acupuncture teaching in China.
Two large acupuncture needles, used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The needles are inserted into chosen points on the body to stimulate the movement of the energy qi and balance the Yin and Yang parts of the qi.
A copper Yantra meditation plaque decorated with a geometric pattern. Meditation has strong links with Ayurveda and is often recommended as part of an ‘Ayurvedic lifestyle’. Techniques vary – Yantra meditation uses patterns of symbols and shapes to h
A pot of ‘Fragrance of the Cape’ aromatherapy dough from South Africa. The dough contains a blend of essential oils from buchu and wilde-als - plants used in African medicine for their healing properties.
A packet of the mass-produced herbal medicine, 'Ngetwa 3'. The medicine is foil-packed for a longer shelf life and a modern look. The Tanzanian mganga (healer) who prepared the medicine is shown on the front.
An adjella ifa, a bowl to store the palm nuts used by diviners of the Yoruba people of Nigeria. This particular object is shaped in the form of a woman carrying a child, kneeling in respect to Ifa, the god of divination. The diviner seeks information
An amulet in the form of Eshu, a god of the Yoruba people of Nigeria. The wooden figure is covered with carved divination boards and cowrie shells threaded onto leather.
A bag probably made from monkey-skin, used by healers in Africa. Clothes and accessories such as this bag are important to identify healers and show their high status in the community.
