- 1a Faculty of Archaeology , Leiden University , Leiden , the Netherlands.
Abstract
The
paper introduces the Baanashada Dumarka, a Somali fertility therapy
carried out by a spirit medium, known locally as 'Alaqad. Baanashada is
aimed at women whose fertility issues are believed to be caused by
spirits. The study also explores a component of the Baanashada, namely,
the use of tiire (Rotheca myricoides), or the butterfly bush. Although
Rotheca myricoides is known to possess a number of medicinal components
as confirmed by studies of modern science, so far, there exist no
studies on its potential (or lack of) fertility effects. Hence, the
alleged fertility benefits of the butterfly bush need examining. In 2008
a British Somali woman died of herbs placed in her cervix by a
traditional healer in Somaliland. This piece of information indicated
not only the role of herbal
medicine in fertility practices, but also the popularity of traditional
reproductive medicine beyond border, class or educational background.
Yet, current research into Somali women's health focuses mainly on
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), examined often without the context of
wider cultural practices. This paper, however, suggests that rituals,
beliefs and material culture play a paramount role in women's practices.
For example, as explored elsewhere, the wagar, a wooden and sacred
object made of the African olive, is critical for fertility practices.
The current paper illuminates further the significance of reproduction
practices in Somali society and the potential continuity of traditions
associated with the perpetuation of kinship. It concludes that fertility
rituals are part of a wider context of interaction with sacred
landscapes, objects and archaeological sites, often associated with past
legends in the Horn of Africa.
KEYWORDS:
Rotheca myricoides/Clerodendrum myricoides; Somali; ethno-botany, plants, indigenous knowledge; fertility/infertility; healing; medical anthropology; reproduction; spirit possessions