Aboriginal traditional medicine is one of the world’s oldest healing systems, practised by Australia’s First Nations peoples for over 60,000 years. This ancient knowledge passed down through generations, is deeply intertwined with the land, spirituality, and the holistic well-being of individuals and communities. Aboriginal healing practices aim to restore balance among the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health with Country at its core.

A fundamental component of Aboriginal traditional medicine is the use of native plants and natural resources, often referred to as bush medicine. Over millennia, Aboriginal peoples have developed a profound understanding of the medicinal properties of Australia’s unique plants. Many of the plants found in the Australian bush possess remarkable healing qualities.

In Aboriginal culture, healing goes beyond merely treating physical symptoms; it also encompasses emotional and spiritual well-being. Many traditional healing practices centre around ceremonies that invoke spiritual guidance and seek to cleanse negative energy. 

Other healing practices include song, dance, and storytelling. These are not only forms of cultural expression but also methods to pass on knowledge and connect with ancestors. Such ceremonies often occur on sacred land or in areas of deep cultural significance, reinforcing the bond between individuals, communities, and their Country.