Meet the Himba tribe where women don’t bath with water and their unique beauty ritual

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The Himba tribe, who are native to the Kunene region of Namibia, are well known for their unique traditions and tenacity in maintaining their way of life in the face of contemporary pressures.

Avoiding water for bathing is one of their most prominent customs; this decision is based on practical, cultural, and environmental factors.

The Himba, who live in the dry regions of northern Namibia, have a severe water shortage. Water is a valuable resource in such a setting, mostly used for necessities like drinking and feeding livestock. Due of this scarcity, the Himba have created water-free alternatives for personal hygiene.

Applying otjize, a paste derived from butterfat and red ochre pigment, is a crucial part of their cleanliness regimen. This paste cleanses the skin, provides sun protection, and acts as a barrier to prevent bug bites.

In addition to being visually significant, the reddish color it imparts represents the rich tones of the land and is consistent with the cultural identity of the Himba. The tribe’s strong ties to their customs are shown in the methodical and ceremonial application of otjize.

Himba women use regular smoke baths in addition to otjize to keep themselves clean. They inhale the smoke from burning fragrant herbs and let it fill their bodies. This method improves personal hygiene without using water by cleansing and adding a nice scent.

These customs are essential to the Himba’s cultural identity and go beyond simple adjustments to environmental difficulties. Their aesthetic values, social institutions, and beliefs are all entwined with the avoidance of water for bathing. The Himba preserve a strong sense of community and continuity with their ancestral heritage by upholding these traditions.

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