​”Folk-Medicine: A Chapter in the History of Culture” by William George Black, first published in 1883, offers an insightful exploration into the traditional practices and beliefs surrounding health and healing across various cultures. The book delves into the ways communities have historically approached medicine, emphasizing the significance of charms, incantations, and customary rituals in the preservation of health and treatment of ailments. Black’s work not only documents these practices but also attempts to classify the explanations for diseases that emerge from folklore, providing a comprehensive understanding of the cultural contexts in which these medical traditions developed. ​

Throughout the text, Black highlights the integral role of the medicine man or shaman in various societies, particularly among indigenous groups. These figures were often responsible for diagnosing illnesses through divination and trances, employing methods such as exorcisms, chanting, and religious ceremonies to treat patients. In addition to spiritual interventions, they administered herbal remedies and utilized techniques like sweat baths and suction to address physical ailments. For instance, the Apaches attributed many illnesses to malevolent spirits and used singing, drumming, and amulets to combat these forces, while also employing herbs like jalap and cinchona for their medicinal properties. ​

Black’s examination extends to the practical applications of folk medicine, noting how communities combined spiritual beliefs with empirical knowledge. The Comanches, for example, demonstrated an understanding of surgical procedures and effectively treated injuries such as broken bones and gunshot wounds. They utilized a variety of herbs, including castor oil and sassafras, to address specific health issues. Similarly, the Natchez Indians employed the red seed of the magnolia as a febrifuge and acacia wood for toothaches. These examples underscore the depth of traditional medical knowledge and its reliance on both spiritual and natural remedies.

In his preface, Black acknowledges the contributions of numerous correspondents who provided notes and insights, many of which had not been previously published. He emphasizes the importance of documenting and understanding these traditional practices, not only to preserve cultural heritage but also to recognize the foundational role they play in the evolution of modern medicine. By meticulously citing his sources and presenting a balanced analysis, Black offers readers a valuable resource that bridges the gap between folklore and the scientific study of medicine.