Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

As part of the Canadian Islamic History Month, whose national theme is “Health and Healing,” Outaouais’ Islamic Centre (OIC) hosted a free all-day event at the Galeries d’Aylmer on October 12. From 9:00 am to 5:00pm, Gatineau residents were invited to join OIC to learn more about the links between health, healing and Muslim traditions throughout history. 

A wide variety of experts in the fields of traditional health and healing were in attendance, such as practitioners of naturopathy, orthotherapy, cupping massage and massage therapy. Together, they informed attendees on the benefits of their respective practices and their effects on the mind and body.  

A focal point of the event was to highlight medicinal plants that aren’t commonly used in Western medicine. Connoisseurs of natural remedies broke down the benefits of an array of plants such as nigella, called the “seed of blessings” in Arabic, responsible for alleviating indigestion and loss of appetite, mugwort which stimulates period flow and relives cramps, and chamomile, widely known for its calming benefits, among many others. 

Vendor booths offering a variety of products, including essential oils, medicinal plants, and services such a cupping therapy were available throughout the day. The event was also a learning opportunity — a quiz wheel offering gifts related to the theme was installed for those wanting to test their knowledge of natural health and healing practices. 

The OIC described the event as an opportunity to “learn more about the contribution of Muslims in the fields of health and healing, presented in a simple and accessible way.” 

The rest of their program related to Canadian Islamic History Month can be found on their website at cio-oic.ca.