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Before the introduction of modern medicine, the Kookums (Grandmothers) were the traditional keepers of knowledge of herbal plant remedies. They were midwives for the Anishinaabe community and had an understanding of a whole range of medicines that could cure illness that their families might encounter. This knowledge was not exclusive, but was something that was shared between First Nations women and their children, including the Métis. This is why we must honor our grandmothers and our mothers, for they hold the wisdom and knowledge of generations of mothers and grandmothers before them. 
6 Comments
Wau'e'ashta'
11/16/2019 06:26:49 am
My grandmother was the same that you speak of, she was born in 1895 and she passed in 1991. When she was a child the tribe was forcefully removed from Nebraska to Oklahoma. She helped many people in her lifetime. When I was young, she would take me to pick herbs, she told me what they were used for and how they would help. Today I help people when they ask me, if I can.
Dolly Potts
11/16/2019 08:34:43 am
Along with the physical the helper also takes care of the spiritual, mental and emotional healing. These make us a whole human being. In a good way we help each other. 1/20/2023 10:00:51 am
My grandmother was also a very wise woman. She used her knowledge of herbal medicine to help many people in her lifetime. When I was young, she would take me out into the woods to pick herbs and tell me what they were used for and how they could help people. Today, I continue to help people when they ask me if I can. 8/20/2024 07:20:44 pm
What challenges have been faced in preserving and honoring the traditional knowledge of the Kookums? Leave a Reply. |
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Kade M. Ferris, MSc
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