At Ellsworth LLC, we believe in empowering Native American communities by fostering culturally competent care and supporting health professionals dedicated to making a difference. These essential books for Indigenous health reading list offer an insightful journey into the history, practices, and innovations shaping Native and Indigenous health. Whether you’re entering the Indian Health Service, exploring traditional healing, or advocating for tribal health policy, these books are indispensable resources.
Each title provides practical knowledge, historical context, or inspiring wisdom to help you serve Native communities more effectively. Dive into this list, share it as a thoughtful gift, or use it as a stepping stone for your professional journey.
American Indian Health: Innovations in Health Care, Promotion, and Policy (1st Edition)
Author/Editor: Everett R. Rhoades MD
Summary: This book brings together a distinguished group of scholars and practitioners to provide a detailed assessment of the unique health challenges faced by American Indians and Alaska Natives. It examines disease processes with distinct manifestations among these populations. It addresses the delivery of health services within the context of the special relationship between Indian tribes and the U.S. federal government. A must-read for clinicians and policymakers working to improve Native American healthcare. Paperpack from $52.90-66.22.
Native American Health: Then and Now
Author: Sue Johnson
Summary: This narrative traces the health and healing practices of Indigenous tribes from pre-settler times to the modern day, focusing on physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual well-being. It explores the impact of cultural interactions on Indigenous health, highlighting traditional practices and the contemporary challenges Native communities face. The book provides an in-depth look at the evolution of health paradigms within Indigenous societies and offers insights into their economic and social issues. Paperback from $92.92.
Sovereign Bodies, Sovereign Spaces: Urban Indigenous Health Activism in the United States and Australia
Author: Maria John
Summary: This innovative study examines urban Indigenous health activism in the United States and Australia. It highlights the history of Indigenous community-controlled health clinics and their role in addressing healthcare inequities and promoting sovereignty. From the 1970s health access crisis to Indigenous responses to COVID-19, this book sheds light on the resilience of Indigenous communities and the emergence of new forms of political and cultural sovereignty. Paperback from $32.95.
The Science of the Sacred: Bridging Global Indigenous Medicine Systems and Modern Scientific Principles
Author: Nicole Redvers N.D.
Summary: Nicole Redvers combines evidence-based research with Indigenous healing traditions to create a comprehensive guide to holistic health. Covering topics like sweat lodges, fermented foods, and meditation, this book bridges ancient practices with modern scientific advances, such as epigenetics and quantum physics. It offers over 600 citations and insights into integrating traditional and modern approaches to health and wellness. Paperback from $15.95.
Medicinal Lichens: Indigenous Wisdom and Modern Pharmacology
Authors: Robert Dale Rogers, Jason Hollinger
Summary: This illustrated guide explores over 400 species of North American lichens, focusing on their traditional uses by Indigenous peoples for medicine, food, and dyes. It delves into the pharmacological potential of lichens, including their effectiveness against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Combining Indigenous wisdom with modern science, the book showcases lichens as a symbol of resilience and harmony in nature and human health. Paperback from $29.99. This title will be released on February 25, 2025.
Honoring the Medicine: The Essential Guide to Native American Healing
Author: Ken Cohen
Summary: This comprehensive guide explores Native American holistic healing practices, including rituals, herbal remedies, energy therapies, and purification ceremonies. The book emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual health, offering insights into traditional values and their application to modern wellness. It also includes practical advice on finding and using healing plants and performing rituals like smudging and sweat lodges. Paperback from $22.25.
The Seven Circles: Indigenous Teachings for Living Well
Authors: Chelsey Luger, Thosh Collins
Summary: Drawing from traditions across multiple tribes, this book presents the Seven Circles model for achieving balance in life: food, movement, sleep, ceremony, sacred space, land, and community. With personal stories, practical advice, and stunning photography, the authors guide readers in incorporating Indigenous wellness practices into modern living. They also emphasize cultural respect and the importance of preserving the original context of these teachings. Hardcover from $16.49.
Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants
Authors: Robin Wall Kimmerer, Monique Gray Smith
Summary: Adapted for younger readers, this book weaves Indigenous wisdom and scientific knowledge together to inspire a deeper connection with nature. Through stories, reflection questions, and illustrations, the authors teach how plants provide lessons and gifts, fostering a greater understanding of ecological harmony and sustainability. Paperback from $14.99.
The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen
Author: Sean Sherman
Summary: A James Beard Award-winning cookbook that celebrates Indigenous cuisine using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Sean Sherman redefines Native American cooking by embracing traditional ingredients like wild game, berries, and wild rice while avoiding European staples like wheat, dairy, and sugar. This book serves as both a culinary guide and a cultural education on the rich heritage of Indigenous food traditions. Hardcover from $18.18.
At Ellsworth LLC, we celebrate the intersection of tradition and innovation in Native health practices. These books inspire meaningful conversations about sovereignty, cultural competence, and health equity.
If you are a medical professional eager to make a difference in tribal health, we invite you to create a profile with us. Our quick and easy onboarding process ensures you can start contributing to Native communities immediately. Join us today and be part of a movement dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes for Indigenous peoples. Let’s build a healthier future together.
