Tanana

Tanana is a term that can refer to several different entities, including a city in Alaska, a river in Alaska, and a group of Native American people known as the Tanana Athabaskans. This article will focus on the Tanana Athabaskans, their culture, and their traditional medical practices.

Tanana Athabaskans

The Tanana Athabaskans or Tanana Athabascans are a group of Alaska Native people who traditionally lived in the interior of Alaska, near the Tanana River. They are part of the larger Athabaskan language family, which also includes the Navajo and Apache peoples of the southwestern United States.

Culture

The Tanana Athabaskans have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional songs, dances, and stories. They also have a deep respect for the land and the animals that inhabit it, which is reflected in their hunting and fishing practices.

Traditional Medicine

Traditional Tanana Athabaskan medicine is based on a holistic understanding of health and wellness, which includes physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. It involves the use of herbal medicines, massage, and spiritual rituals.

Herbal Medicine

Tanana Athabaskans use a variety of plants for medicinal purposes. For example, the bark of the willow tree is used to treat pain and inflammation, while the roots of the yarrow plant are used to stop bleeding.

Massage Therapy

Massage is used by the Tanana Athabaskans to treat a variety of ailments, including muscle pain, joint stiffness, and digestive problems. It is also used to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Spiritual Healing

Spiritual healing is an important part of Tanana Athabaskan medicine. It involves the use of rituals and ceremonies to treat illness and promote wellness. This can include the use of sweat lodges, smudging ceremonies, and prayer.

See Also

• Alaska Natives
• Athabaskan languages
• Herbal medicine
• Massage therapy
• Spiritual healing