Nishnaabe Nanaawndawichigewin (Indian Healing)

The Nishnaabe Nanaawndawichigewin (Traditional Medicine Program), established in 1995, was the first tribal traditional medicine program in the United States integrated into a tribal health delivery system. It has become recognized and accepted within the tribal community and has served as a model for traditional medicine programs offered by other tribes. Traditional Medicine services include:  traditional practitioner consultation, diagnosis and treatment with herbs and/or specific ceremonies, sweat lodges, fasting, naming, clan and colors identification.

Traditional medicine services are available at the tribal clinics in Sault Ste. Marie, St. Ignace, Hessel, Manistique, Marquette, Kinross, Newberry and Munising.  In addition, services can be available in the client's home or at the hospital.  Two male traditional practitioners, one woman traditional practitioner and a practitioner assistant provide services to the tribal community.  Several community members volunteer in the gathering, planting, processing and donation of herbal medicines, sweat lodge and ceremonies.  Traditional teachings are given to the community and clinic staff several times a year.

Introductory Ojibwe language grammar lessons are offered as a means of the membership and clients to understand the beauty and breadth of the language and its role in healing, ceremony and cultural practices such as fasting and the sweat lodge.