"Curanderismo," or folk healing is seen as an important part of Mexican and Mexican-American culture, and continues to have significant influence in South Texas. A teaching unit, as well as lectures and various publications on curanderismo have been developed, based on research and interviews with practitioners. The practice of curanderismo involves rituals and, often, the use of herbs to heal patients. Curanderismo functions on three often interrelated levels: the material, spiritual, and mental; and the curandero or curandera (healer) may specialize in a particular type of remedy. Belief in curanderismo is both a religious belief and a belief in the supernatural. Healing abilities are often seen as endowed by God, or the result of a long apprenticeship. Curanderos base their livelihood on their healing abilities, and are usually employed for more serious cases. At present, health care professionals are urged to recognize curanderismo as an alternative or supplement to formal medicine. (AS)