Hispanics/Latinos

• Some Hispanic people believe that disease is caused by an imbalance between hot and cold principles. Health is maintained by avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures and by consuming appropriate foods and beverages. Examples of “hot” diseases or states are pregnancy, hypertension, diabetes, and indigestion. “Cold” disease examples include menstrual cramps, pneumonia, and colic. The goal of treatment is to restore balance. “Cold” diseases are treated with “hot” remedies, and vice versa. Inter- and intra-group variations exist with regard to beliefs about the hot and cold theory of disease.
• Traditional medicine in most Hispanic countries has an extensive list of folk remedies. Examples include using garlic to treat hypertension and cough; chamomile to treat nausea, gas, colic, and anxiety; a purgative tea combined with stomach massage to cure lack of appetite, stomach pains, or diarrhea; and peppermint to treat dyspepsia and gas.
• Providers may encounter the concept of a bilongo or hex, for which the proper diagnosis and treatment require consulting a santero/santera or healer.
• The evil eye (mal de ojo) appears in several Hispanic cultures. In children, it is thought to cause vomiting, fever, crying, and restlessness. It is believed to be brought on by an admiring look from a person with a strong eye. It can be diagnosed and treated with a barrida (Puerto Rico) or limpia (Mexico)—a sweeping of the body with eggs, lemons, and bay leaves, accompanied by prayer.

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