Conduct a search to determine if there is evidence-based research to support health benefits of the practice.

Introduction Cultural artifacts and traditions are significant in preserving a community’s heritage and are often passed down from generation to generation. In my case, my grandmother, Emelina, shared with me several home remedies for restoring health and a cultural artifact, Azabache stones/bracelet, believed to provide protection against the evil eye. This paper discusses the home remedy and cultural artifact used by my grandmother and the role of religious or spiritual beliefs in defining birth, illness, healing, marriage, and death or burial rituals. Additionally, the paper will review available evidence-based research to support the health benefits of the practice.

Home Remedy for Restoration of Health My grandmother, Emelina, was a firm believer in using natural remedies to treat various ailments. One of the home remedies she often used was a mixture of garlic and honey, which she believed had powerful healing properties. She would mix crushed garlic with a tablespoon of honey and give it to us to treat a cough or cold. According to Emelina, garlic has antibiotic properties that help fight infections, while honey has a soothing effect on the throat and helps relieve coughs.

There is some evidence to support the use of garlic as a natural remedy for certain conditions. A study published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine found that garlic was effective in reducing the severity and duration of the common cold in adults (Nantz et al., 2012). Another study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that garlic had cholesterol-lowering effects (Gebhardt & Beck, 1996). However, more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of garlic and honey as a home remedy for various health conditions.

Cultural Artifact: Azabache Stones/Bracelet The Azabache stone is a cultural artifact commonly used in Hispanic communities for protection against the evil eye. The stone is believed to absorb negative energy and protect the wearer from harm. My grandmother, Emelina, always wore an Azabache bracelet, and she believed that it brought her good luck and protected her from negative energy. According to her, the Azabache bracelet should always be worn on the left wrist, and it should be given as a gift to protect the wearer from harm.

There is limited evidence-based research on the health benefits of wearing an Azabache bracelet. However, there is some evidence to suggest that belief in the protective properties of the stone can have a positive effect on mental health. A study published in the Journal of Religion and Health found that religious coping, including belief in supernatural protection, was associated with better mental health outcomes (Pargament et al., 2014). The study suggests that cultural artifacts and beliefs can provide a sense of security and support during challenging times.

Role of Religious or Spiritual Beliefs In Hispanic culture, religious or spiritual beliefs play a significant role in defining birth, illness, healing, marriage, and death or burial rituals. My grandmother was a devout Catholic, and her religious beliefs shaped her views on life and death. She believed that birth was a miraculous event and that illness and suffering were part of God’s plan. Emelina believed that prayer and faith could help heal the sick, and she often prayed for the recovery of her loved ones.

In Hispanic culture, marriage is viewed as a sacred union, and the wedding ceremony is often steeped in religious and cultural traditions. My grandmother was married in a Catholic church, and her wedding ceremony included several traditional Hispanic customs, such as the exchange of arras, or coins, which symbolize the couple’s commitment to supporting each other.