Emirati Brews and Spice Souqs

Overview

The exploration and reflection on the power of natural remedies and herbs was the focus of the excursion and workshop Emirati Herbal Home Brews, which took place on 18 March, 2017. In a thematic tour of SB13: Tamawuj at Al Mureijah Square, participants viewed the works of artists Tonico Lemos Auad, Hind Mezaina, Abdullah Al Saadi and Donghee Koo, whose research involved traditional herbal medicine, native plants and the urban and rural landscapes of Sharjah.

Following the tour, Emirati mother Homa Al Hashimi gave a short presentation about the culture of alternative medicine in the UAE. Drawing on her background in biology and education as well as personal experience, she shared stories about raising a healthy family using natural healing and prevention methods. As participants joined the discussion, asking questions and sharing their knowledge, they sipped on habbat al hamra, a traditional Emirati drink made from red chia seeds soaked in custard.

Continuing their excursion, the group set out in search of Souq Saqr’s ataareen [herb sellers], whose shops offer a vibrant selection of dried herbs, oils and spices used in natural remedies. By visiting these shops a stone’s throw away from SAF offices under Al Hashimi’s guidance, participants were able to see that natural approaches to healthy living can not only be as effective and safe as pharmaceuticals but also economically sustainable and easily accessible.

After Al Hashimi had given some tips on how to find quality ingredients and distinguish between them, the group gathered at Fen Café for Al Hashimi’s demonstration of some of her favourite herbal remedy recipes. She shared dozens of small jars containing herb samples from her personal home apothecary. Her recipes included a powdered nigella seed scrub and mask for bright skin; a sih o kurkum poultice for bruises made from heated date paste, turmeric and salt; an alkalising ginger and honey drink and a detoxing chamomile and turmeric tea to relieve the symptoms of a cough.

Inspired by the easy-to-make and beneficial recipes shared by Al Hashimi, participants took many notes on the process and shared recipes and photos from the workshop with their friends, family and social media.

Make the most of your visit to SB13: Tamawuj by pairing it with one of our workshops, excursions, guided tours or film screenings which are taking place throughout the Biennial. Please click here for a detailed Education and Public Programme, or visit our events page.