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Intertwined therapeutic mobilities: knowledge, plants, healers on the move between Laos and the U.S

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  • Audrey Bochaton

Abstract

We investigate the notion of therapeutic mobilities through the case study of transnational health care practices and medicinal flows within the Hmong diaspora between Laos and the U.S. Drawing upon narratives of traditional healers, pickers, and plant sellers, as well as a collection of postal registers, we highlight how therapeutic mobilities follow the routes of migration and organize the practices of healing among Hmong in receiving countries, particularly in the U.S. Through the different and multidirectional aspects of therapeutic mobilities, we illustrate how transnational healing touches upon questions of cultural identity within the Hmong diaspora. Therapeutic mobilities not only involve border-crossing, they also strengthen existing bonds within the Hmong diaspora. Similarly, herbal treatments not only achieve a therapeutic function, they also represent a range of meanings and values for patients. We explore the fabric of therapeutic mobilities through the prism of translocality and medical pluralism.

Suggested Citation

  • Audrey Bochaton, 2019. "Intertwined therapeutic mobilities: knowledge, plants, healers on the move between Laos and the U.S," Mobilities, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 14(1), pages 54-70, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:rmobxx:v:14:y:2019:i:1:p:54-70
    DOI: 10.1080/17450101.2018.1522878
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    Cited by:

    1. Park, Hyanggi, 2022. "Can imaginary mobilities be conducive to mental health?," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 314(C).
    2. Laura Kemppainen & Veera Koskinen & Harley Bergroth & Eetu Marttila & Teemu Kemppainen, 2021. "Health and Wellness–Related Travel: A Scoping Study of the Literature in 2010-2018," SAGE Open, , vol. 11(2), pages 21582440211, May.

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