Date of Award

8-12-2016

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

African-American Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Lia Bascomb

Second Advisor

Dr. Jamae Morris

Third Advisor

Dr. Akinyele Umoja

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to explore complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use for diabetes management purposes among the Gullah-Geechee of McIntosh County, Georgia. Using snowball and convenience sampling, the researcher selected four adult participants, at least 60 years old, who had Type 2 diabetes, and reported using CAM for Type 2 diabetes management. Two community experts were included in the study also. In conjunction with visiting allopathic physicians, Gullah-Geechee people use several types of CAM, but do not use CAM types such as teas like life everlasting (Gnaphalium polycephalum) and cinnamon capsules for chronic conditions. Participants selected for this study were raised in McIntosh County, Georgia, and identified as Gullah-Geechee. The data was gathered using phenomenological interviewing. A semi-structured interview format was provided to participants’ to understand their experiences using CAM for diabetes management. Interviews did not exceed an hour. Reported herbal tea use received additional consideration.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.57709/8890496

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