Appalachian Folk Medicine and Magic

Join us for a free Cornerstone virtual presentation on Appalachian folk medicine and magic traditions.

Brandy Renee McCann will cover the historical context of granny women and root workers, followed by an overview of key Appalachian traditions, such as planting by the signs, Biblical charms, and traditional medicine. Contemporary folk practices to be discussed include older traditions, as well as “wild tending," herbalism, and mind and body practices.

McCann is co-chair of the Appalachian Caucus at Virginia Tech and writes a regular creative column at Reckon Review. She works as a caregiving researcher at the Center for Gerontology at Virginia Tech. Her scientific work on aging in Appalachia can be found in a variety of academic journals.