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Brauche, also called <em>powwowing</em>, is the practice of customary healing (from <em>Bräuche</em>, i.e., "customs") transplanted to America by emigrants from South [[Germany]], [[Alsace (France)|Alsace]], and [[Switzerland]], and practiced by many settlers in Pennsylvania Dutch country. Powwowing comes in various forms, depending on the geographical location and cultural traditions of the community. Some <em>Brauchers</em> use magical words and charms as they apply their art at the bedside of the ill. Other practitioners rely exclusively on the gift of "electric" in the hand. By rubbing and massaging and even following nerve routes through the body, pain can be located and treated. Some <em>Brauchers</em> learn their skills from local chiropractors and manipulate the body to relieve pain and pressure. All authentic [[Amish Mennonites|Amish]] powwowers agree that the art of <em>Brauche</em> is a gift of God and not self-induced. The practice is usually carried out in the home. Treatments are free, but a modest contribution is accepted. <em>Brauche</em> has been the subject of debate for centuries. It has nearly vanished in some Amish communities. Many young people know little about this healing art, except for the glowing stories handed down by their elders.

See also [[Folk Medicine, Amish and Swiss-Pennsylvania German|Folk Medicine]]
= Additional Information =
[http://www.goshen.edu/english/ervinb/bibliographies/ervinbib.html Ervin Beck's Bibliography on Mennonite and Amish Folklore and Folk Arts] (see section on Medicine)
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