Exploring the Adler Museum: A journey into the History of Healing

As a yoga teacher and acupuncturist deeply invested in sharing knowledge around integrating allopathic and traditional medicine, I recently embarked on a visit to the Adler Museum of Medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.

This experience offered a profound exploration into the evolution of healing practices, bridging ancient traditions with modern medicine. It was wonderful to be accompanied by other, equally passionate and curious Yoga teachers.

Historical charm

A Sanctuary of Medical Heritage

Established in 1962 by Drs. Cyril and Esther Adler, the museum houses an extensive collection of over 40,000 artefacts, including medical instruments, rare manuscripts, and photographs that chronicle the history of medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy in Southern Africa .

They have recreated a doctor’s room, what a dispensary would have looked like and walking through the displays you can truly marvel at how far modern medicine has come. All the while without loosing sight of how the ingenuity and development of each time period deserves tremendous respect.

Bridging Traditional and Modern Healing

One of the museum’s standout features is its dedication to showcasing traditional African healing practices. Exhibits such as a reconstructed African herb shop and a depiction of a patient consulting a sangoma (traditional healer) provide invaluable insights into indigenous medicinal knowledge .

There is also mention of Ayurvedic and Chinese Medicine. 

Iron Lungs used to treat Polio

Interactive Learning and Reflection

The museum offers guided tours that include interactive activities, making it an educational experience for visitors of all ages. These tours delve into significant medical milestones and public health challenges, including the HIV/AIDS pandemic, Polio and currently there is a curated section about Malaria.

A Resource for Holistic Practitioners

For yoga teachers and holistic health practitioners, the Adler Museum serves as a valuable resource to understand the historical context of healing practices. It encourages reflection on how traditional and modern medicine can coexist and complement each other in promoting overall well-being.

David, the curator of the museum, sharing his knowledge and insights.

Planning Your Visit

The Adler Museum is located at 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg. Tours are available by appointment from Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 16:00. To schedule a visit, contact the museum at +27 (0)11 717 2081 or via email at adler.museum@wits.ac.za .

Parking is limited so please be sure to discuss options with the Museum when making your booking.

Visiting the Adler Museum has enriched my perspective on the interconnectedness of various healing modalities. I highly recommend this experience to fellow yoga teachers and anyone interested in the comprehensive history of medicine.

A fully stocked dispensary !