Ethnomedicine in the 21st century: challenges and prospects

With : Laurence Pourchez (CESSMA/INALCO)

The aim of this conference is to present the book Faire de l'ethnomédecine au XXIe siècle, enjeux et perspectives (Editions des Archives contemporaines, 2025), the outcome of the symposium held at INALCO in 2022, to explore the growing interest in traditional medicines and non-conventional therapies, some of which have been recognized by the WHO for almost 50 years. The West is currently rediscovering the age-old practices found in Africa, Asia and elsewhere, in the knowledge that they have treated (and cured) millions of people throughout history. Bringing together 18 articles, the book illustrates the diversity of research in ethnomedicine and the stakes involved in gaining recognition for this multidisciplinary approach, essential for billions of people with no, or limited, access to biomedicine.

Laurence Pourchez is Professor of Anthropology at INALCO (Africa, Indian Ocean Department). Author of nearly 200 scientific publications, she is interested in women's and children's health, traditional medicines in the Indian Ocean and the link between the medicines present in this geographical area and the environment (link to biodiversity).

Organized by : Stéphanie Homola