A paste made from the beaten bark of the afzelia tree may be used to cure a toothache. The aromatic leaves of a eucaliptus tree, dipped in cool water and rubbed on a patient's body, may relieve some of the symptoms of malaria. Some experienced healers and herbalists are also able to heal more serious diseases. In cases of recurring illness or misfortune among individuals or whole communities, it is the job of a diviner, or tahi , to find the source or cause of a problem. The Chokwe believe that diviners have the power to channel the spiritual or supernatural forces that affect people's lives.
Diviners serve as go-betweens for humans and spirits.
A diviner's duty is to determine whether a patient is suffering from a common illness or one caused by an upset ancestor or an evildoer. Once a diviner identifies the problem, the patient can appeal to his or her ancestors and honor them in order to regain health. Northwestern Zambia, 1991. Some people in Chokwe-related societies have evil intentions and choose to create conflict and disharmony for all members of their communities. The Chokwe believe that some of these individuals can use supernatural powers to harm others.