Folk illnesses have aspects that fall into each of the genres of folklore, there is also a performative feature that takes place during the treatment of these maladies.
"Folklorists pay attention to the performed act of expressive, artistic communication- the when, where, with whom, how, and why people communicate. In addition to actual content, words or actions (texts) folklorists consider literary, linguistic, or physical nuances of those texts (texture); and they study these elements within specific groups and settings (contexts). (Sims & Stephens pg. 136)
Verbal Folklore- Information about folk illnesses is spread through word of mouth such as treatments, products to use in order to remedy the illness, and who to go see if you or someone in your family is ill. Certain sayings and prayers are used to rid an afflicted individual of an illness. In addition, Mal de Ojo is a phenomenon that is widely known about in many regions around the world.
Material Folklore- The material culture that is manifested when somebody requires a "limpia" or spiritual cleansing is fascinating. Eggs are used to rid the body of evil or bad will, herbs can be used to protect the individual and are also used in the limpia to physically sweep the bad energy away or burned and used to smudge the afflicted. The well known symbol of the "Evil Eye" can be found throughout many cultures and can be demonstrated in a number of ways, jewelry for personal protection, hung in the home to protect and ward off evil, hung from trees to protect property etc.
Customary Lore- Stories of others who have struggled with culture bound syndrome have driven the knowledge surrounding symptoms and cures. Particularly bad cases, how the person became afflicted, outside forces that acted against the afflicted person (this can sometimes be someone who wishes ill upon you, works brujeria or witchcraft against you, or even a family member) all travel by word of mouth. The customs that have developed as a result include the limpia, treatment regimens, wearing of the Evil Eye, preventative measures and more. The limpia has become such a common custom for treating folk illnesses that curandero/a's can be found providing the service in markets and town centers.
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