Exploring the Intersection of Health and Materiality in the Indian Ocean World

Written by esteemed author Anne Gerritsen, this groundbreaking volume delves into the fascinating history of medicine, focusing on the diverse communities that flourished across the Indian Ocean World. By introducing materiality into the equation, Gerritsen sheds light on how these communities perceived, interacted with, and understood health and medical commodities.

Challenging Conventional Approaches

The book opens up new spatial dimensions, challenging existing perspectives on knowledge, power, and the market. Gerritsen pioneers the concept of “therapeutic commodity,” examining how different materials were understood and utilized in various settings and for diverse purposes.

This innovative approach reveals how the circulation of commodities created new regimes of meaning, resulting in far-reaching economic and political consequences. From the 17th century onwards, the history of medicine and its role in global connections are reinterpreted through a material lens.

Uncovering the Material Culture of Medicine

This comprehensive volume explores a vast range of material culture in medicinal settings, including:

• Midwifery and the significance of umbilical cords
• The social spaces of soap and perfumes in early modern India
• Remedies for leprosy and other diseases

By examining these diverse aspects of material culture, Gerritsen provides a nuanced understanding of the history of medicine and its intricate connections to global trade and cultural exchange.

Publication Details:

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Publication Date: January 12, 2023

Language: English

ISBN: 9781350195882, 9781350195899