Abstract

The culture of the people is central to the traditional medicine knowledge, uses and trade. This indigenous knowledge is orally passed from one generation to the next and is shared through efficacious communication with the ancestral spirits, dreams and oral narratives. This traditional medicine knowledge is invaluable in the treatment of sociocultural illnesses or syndromes, for instance, bad luck, bad dreams, cultural curses, and are resourceful in the administration of significant cultural rites and ceremonies. The traditional medicine sold in the medicine markets of Kenya is a true reflection of the cultural norms, beliefs and interactions among various cultures in a particular area. Cultural evolution phenomenon often takes place as a result of immigration, assimilation, interaction and acculturation. As a result these cultural changes affect; the autochthonous culture of their newly adopted homes and provides a sense of belonging to the people.

Key words: Culture, traditional medicine knowledge, cultural evolution, changes.