Feces: An Igbo Perspective on Matters of the Behind

Yoruba: Òrò gbɔngbɔ, òrò tó gbà gbɔ̀ngbɔ, òrò tó ṣe pàtàkì, àmọ́ tí a kò sábà máa ń sọ. Ojú méjè un nílé ló ń gbɔ́dò igbà.
Introduction:
The topic of feces is one that is often shrouded in taboo and silence. But for the Igbo people of Nigeria, feces holds a special significance. It is believed to be a powerful source of both healing and divination. In this article, we will explore the Igbo perspective on feces, and how it is used in traditional medicine and spiritual practices.
The Healing Power of Feces:
In Igbo traditional medicine, feces is believed to have a number of healing properties. It is used to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach pain. Feces is also believed to be effective in treating skin infections and wounds.
One of the most common ways to use feces for medicinal purposes is to apply it directly to the affected area. For example, to treat a skin infection, feces may be mixed with shea butter and applied to the wound. To treat diarrhea, feces may be mixed with water and drunk.
Feces and Divination:
In addition to its medicinal uses, feces is also used in Igbo divination practices. It is believed that by examining the feces of a person, a diviner can gain insight into their health, their past, and their future. Feces can also be used to determine the cause of an illness or to identify the perpetrator of a crime.
To perform a divination using feces, the diviner will typically collect a sample of the person's feces and then examine it for its color, texture, and smell. The diviner will also ask the person questions about their health and their life. Based on the information they gather, the diviner will then make a prediction about the person's future.
Taboos Surrounding Feces:
Despite its medicinal and spiritual uses, feces is also surrounded by a number of taboos in Igbo culture. It is considered to be a dirty and polluting substance, and it is forbidden to touch it with bare hands. Feces must also be disposed of properly, and it is never to be used as fertilizer.
:
Feces is a complex and multifaceted substance that plays an important role in Igbo culture. It is used for both medicinal and spiritual purposes, and it is surrounded by a number of taboos. By understanding the Igbo perspective on feces, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of human culture.