Bridging Worldviews

Read full text
Authors: Sandi Loytomaki, Yesenia Cortés
Cited by: 0
References: 28

Abstract

Within the context of the World Health Organization’s new Global Strategy on Traditional Medicine (2025–2034), this article employs Indigenous Research Methodologies to examine the integration of Indigenous medicine into contemporary clinical practice. Drawing on personal reflexive ethnography, the author proposes moving beyond a dualistic framework and the notion of “second sight” toward a multifocal perspective that weaves together narrative, Indigenous teachings, and scientific discourse. This approach emerges from a mixed Indigenous and multicultural identity that articulates Indigenous medical practices, integrative medicine, and Western biomedical science. The analysis includes a critical review of traditional, integrative, and complementary medicine, biomedicine,gender disparities in healthcare, and the historical role of women, with particular emphasis on Sámi traditional medicine. Finally, the article discusses clinical experiences that engage with the four objectives of the WHO strategy: evidence, safety and efficacy, integration into health systems, and community empowerment.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies Indigenous Health Education and Rights Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Fourth World Journal
Volume
25
Issue
2
Pages
1–23
Publication date
6 January 2026