Many different forms of medicine are currently practiced around the world. In fact, as our text states, "in all cultures, certain people are recognized as having special abilities to treat and diagnose health problems." (Miller 107) Without a doubt, phytomedicinal and supernatural healers are two forms of medical treatment that have been around longer than any other, regardless of culture. Shamanism is estimated to have been practiced for over ten thousand years (Tyson 3). Native American and Celtic healers are often known as shamans. Shamanism has always been an interest of mine, primarily in Native American and Irish Celtic forms of medicine. Native Americans as well as the Celts have always had a certain mystique that deserves great exploration. From animal spirit guides who aid in healing to shamans who are often the point men of Native American and Celtic communities, the shamanic tradition of medicine is admired and practiced by many who do not share the same. ethnicity like these traditional healers. Although the use of animal spirit guides is often ridiculed, as are the sacred spiritual journeys and conversations these magnificent healers undertake, many inexplicable occurrences lend credence to the practices and abilities of shamans in Native American culture. The culture also uses shamans, as well as many phytomedical methods to heal their sick. Although information about shamans in Irish Celtic culture is harder to find, shamans are just as prevalent in medicine in Irish Celtic culture as they are in Native American culture. Regardless of the specific culture, cross-cultural evidence indicates certain c...... middle of paper ......n cultures. Whatever the differences or similarities, the goal of the shaman, regardless of culture, is to heal the sick and guide the lost. Regardless of stigma or other difficulties, shamans of any culture often put their own well-being and safety aside to help others. Ironically, the very act of healing that is criticized when presented in the form of a shaman is welcomed when presented in the form of a doctor. Works CitedQuotationsCunningham, Scott. Earth, air, fire and water. Llewellyn: St. Paul, 1993. Print. Miller, Barbara. Cultural anthropology in the era of globalization. Prentice Hall: Boston, 2010. Print. Roderick, Timothy. The once unknown familiar: shamanic paths. Llewellyn: St. Paul, 1994. Print. Tyson, Donald. Flight of the soul. Llewellyn: Woodbury, 2007. Print. Wolfe, Amber. In the shadow of the shaman. Llewellyn: St. Paul, 1993. Print.