Kwa-Thema – Healer Busisiwe Zulu (36) wants to teach the community about the power of indigenous healing methods.
“I started researching herbs regarding infertility. While I was learning, I was taught that previously, if a family wanted children, they would ask uMvelingcangi [a supreme being] and be directed through dreams on what herbs to take. And they would have children. Some foods could be blocking your fallopian tubes, and you wouldn’t know.
“Even spiritually, what you associate yourself with or entertain can affect your reproduction,” explained Zulu.
After treating a few infertile clients, she started learning about other benefits of using herbs for healing purposes.
“The gift has always been there. I grew up knowing. The dreams were there, but not very clearly,” explained Zulu.
She said her Christian background and social misconceptions did not give her the answers she needed at the time.After matric, Zulu moved to Durban to pursue her studies in accounting.
“Shortly after ‘varsity, I was approached by people who confirmed I had this gift. Fortunately, by then, I was an adult. I think my ancestors were patient with me,” she added.
Zulu said she eventually went into initiation (ephehlweni), where one trains to become a traditional healer.She defines her gift as ‘isibhalo’.
“Sometimes, clients are surprised when they consult with me, and I take a pen and paper to write. I don’t have bones or water. I write down what comes up in our session for me to give you a reading,” she explained.
Zulu said she also wants to help restore the dignity of indigenous healing in black communities.
“Indigenous medicine has been reduced to get-rich-quick schemes and potions to attract men. But this is a way of life,” she added.
Zulu acknowledged that much helpful information was lost to African people.
“There are so many plants we have lost in SA. They just don’t grow here anymore. We have to import some now,” she added.
She said she was committed to teaching those eager to learn.
“Healing is a process. There is no magic. In fact, sometimes you might feel much worse before you get better. Indigenous medicine is not just about relieving you of symptoms. But we seek to get to the root of what is causing the physical discomfort,” said Zulu.
Zulu produces a range of wellness products called IndaloEnhle Herbs and Beyond.
Busisiwe Zulu acknowledges that a lot of helpful information is lost to African people, and she hopes to be part of spreading that information.
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