Multicultural Blog: People of Afghanistan by

Traditional practiced medicine of the Afghani community

teodorailicc — 2024-08-23 12:01:46 UTC

Afghani refugees have shared their traditional medicinal practices worldwide, highlighting the calming effects of herbal remedies over Western pharmaceuticals. Some use natural preventatives such as chamomile and za’atar, a spice blend of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds added in hot water to make a tea that helps alleviate an exciting sickness such as a cold (Ochs & Panvelker, 2021). Other teas include cinnamon and anise, which are also known for their soothing properties. Soups made from nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables are also integral to their diet, providing essential nourishment. These herbal traditions offer a sense of peace and wellness, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural practices of the Afghani people.

Ochs, G., & Panvelker, S. (2021, August). Traditional Medicine Use Among Refugees in Charlottesville. Virginia.edu. https://med.virginia.edu/family-medicine/wp-content/uploads/sites/285/2017/01/Ochs-and-Panvelker-Traditional-Med-Use_Web.pdf

Supporting Mental Health

teodorailicc — 2024-08-23 12:32:58 UTC

In 2021, the AIHW reported that 6.6% of Afghani refugee women aged 20 and above in Australia have self-reported mental health conditions (Health of Refugees and Humanitarian Entrants in Australia, Mental Health, 2023). Many of these women face significant mental health challenges, particularly those separated from their families, due to the distressing conditions in their home country. This has led to an increased focus on providing mental health support, ensuring that Afghani women seeking refuge in Australia receive the care and protection they need. Addressing these mental health needs is crucial for helping these women find peace and rebuild their lives in a new country.

Health of refugees and humanitarian entrants in Australia, Mental health. (2023, November 3). Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cald-australians/health-of-refugees-and-humanitarian-entrants/contents/case-study-humanitarian-entrants-born-in-afghanist/mental-health

Paxton, G., & Schaefer, J. (2021, September). Immigrant Health Service : Afghan refugees - key issues. Www.rch.org.au. https://www.rch.org.au/immigranthealth/clinical/Afghan_refugees_-_key_issues/

Bolani - Afghani dish, goes with everything.

teodorailicc — 2024-08-23 13:13:22 UTC

Bolani is a stuffed flatbread that can be served with any dish and enjoyed as a snack, followed by tea - a simple and delicious traditional dish. With simple ingredients, it can be cooked and enjoyed by everyone.

Ingredients

Dough

lukewarm water – 1 cup (240 mL)
vegetable oil – 1½ Tbsp (22 mL)
salt – 1½ tsp (9 g)
active dry yeast – 1 ½ tsp

bread flour – 3 cups + 1 Tbsp (420 g)

Filling

2 large potatoes, peeled, cut into 1 cm cubes
6 stalks green onion, sliced
1 cup (16 g) fresh coriander, chopped
1 green chilli pepper, minced
1 tsp (2 g) ground coriander
1 tsp (6 g) salt
½ tsp ground turmeric
½ tsp ground black pepper
2½ Tbsp (37 mL) vegetable oil, for frying

Directions:

To make Bolani, mix lukewarm water, vegetable oil, salt, yeast, and bread flour to form a soft dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes. Cook diced potatoes until smooth, then mash with green onion, coriander, chilli pepper, and spices. Divide the dough into 8 balls and roll each into thin circles. Spread potato filling on half of each circle, fold into a half-moon, and seal the edges. Fry in oil until both sides are golden brown. Cut into triangles and serve. Enjoy this flavourful Afghani dish that goes with everything.

Pick Up Limes: Bolani - Afghan Stuffed Flatbread. (n.d.). Www.pickuplimes.com. https://www.pickuplimes.com/recipe/bolani-afghan-stuffed-flatbread-684

Caring for Trauma

teodorailicc — 2024-08-24 09:04:01 UTC

A crucial part of providing adequate health care is recognising the significant impact that trauma can have on mental health, especially in the case of Afghan refugees. I’ve developed an understanding of PTSD within this community and the need for an evolving, inclusive approach, as highlighted in Domain 1.2 (Migrant and Refugee Women's Health Partnership, 2019). I’ve learned how to provide care that is culturally accommodating, particularly for Afghan refugees. This awareness of culturally specific issues is crucial for ensuring that my care remains appropriate and respectful of diverse perspectives throughout my career as a healthcare professional.

Migrant and Refugee Women's Health Partnership. (2019, January). Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice: Working with People from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds. Https://Culturaldiversityhealth.org.au.

WHO Determinents

teodorailicc — 2024-08-24 13:00:16 UTC

Social inclusion and non-discrimination are crucial determinants of health for Afghan refugees arriving in Australia. These factors foster a sense of belonging and community, reducing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression that often arise from displacement (Alwan, 2015). When refugees feel accepted and supported, they are more likely to engage with healthcare services, leading to better health outcomes (World Health Organisation, 2021). Additionally, inclusive policies can help ease barriers to accessing care, such as language and cultural differences. Promoting social inclusion and non-discrimination ultimately enhances Afghan refugees' well-being and contributes to Australian society's overall health (World Health Organisation, 2021).

Alwan, Dr. A. (2015). Health Profile Afghanistan. Https://Www.emro.who.int/Afg/Who-In-Afghanistan/.

https://applications.emro.who.int/dsaf/EMROPUB_2016_EN_18925.pdf?ua=1

World Health Organisation. (2021). Meeting the health needs of Afghanistan’s crisis-affected populations. https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/health-emergency-information-risk-assessment/afgnemergplan2021v3.1.pdf?sfvrsn=3db0559d_7&download=true

Traditional Clothing

teodorailicc — 2024-08-24 13:32:41 UTC

Afghanistan has its peace of elegance and modesty shine through its traditional clothing. These garments are more than just attire; they are passed down through generations and represent the rich traditions following the culture of Afghanistan. Each piece worn by men and women embodies the cultural heritage and a unique story, and each colour represents a different value to the story. In addition – red represents love and vitality, green symbolises prosperity, white represents peace and purity, and black enhances resilience. Woven with history and culture, the traditional dress takes a glimpse of the rich culture of Afghanistan.

The Aseel Artisan Funds. (n.d.). Afghan Dress: Embrace the Elegance of Afghan Culture. Aseel Foundation. https://aseelapp.org/afghan-dress/

Rabab - Afghanistans Traditional Instrument

teodorailicc — 2024-08-24 13:44:13 UTC