ROOTS & RITUALS

Misty hills in nature
Misty hills in nature

African Wellness Traditions

Africa, the cradle of humankind, has one of the oldest therapeutic systems.  According to the World Health Organization, nearly 80% of Africans use some form of traditional medicine, whether by itself or in combination with modern health systems. Marked by differences in regional and cultural beliefs, traditional African medicine is varied in its holistic forms, but fundamental to the practice is the belief that wellness is an alignment of the mind, body, and spirit; therefore, African wellness practices use psychology, cultural norms, and nature’s gifts—mostly plants—to treat ailments. 

Symbols

eni culture’s design symbols are based on an ancient form of communication from what is modern day Nigeria called Nsibidi.  A version of Nsibidi is used by the fictional civilization of Wakanda in Black Panther. Archeological evidence suggests Nsibidi originates as far back as 2000 B.C., beginning with the Ekoi people. Nsibidi played a significant role in the cultural and social life of ancient Nigeria, and its legacy can still be seen in various forms of art, architecture, and other cultural practices in the region today.
 
 

Symbol for skin

SKIN

Symbol for root

ROOT

Symbol for medicineMEDICINE

Symbol for forestFOREST
Symbol for restoreRESTORE

Symbol for goddessGODDESS

Symbol for flower

FLOWER

Symbol for collection

COLLECTION

Symbol for beauty

BEAUTY

Symbol for bodyBODY

 

ISE

The Power of Ise—Ise is a Nigerian word that means “let it be so.” It is believed to invoke positive action from the universe in response to a declaration or request for blessings. Ise is commonly uttered by well-wishers when libations are made during noteworthy social gatherings, such as weddings and christenings.