History

The practice of using a twig or a divining rod to locate water and other treasures hidden beneath the ground started in the 16th century (Ellis, 1917). The divining rod is believed to detect water or minerals that are underground by its butt side being attracted downwards to signify that form of magnetic pull that makes it an effective detection device. The diving rod is mainly made out of specific woods including peach, willow, hazel or witch hazel. There has been numerous research conducted on the scientific viability of dowsing/water witching which showcases the lack of evidence to back the practice’s viability (Kristel, 2016). However, despite the lack of scientific evidence, the practice falls under folklore considering that there are traditional experts who understand and practice dowsing and believe in its effectiveness. The practice typically falls under folklore because it involves believing, perceiving and experiencing together based on cultural and communal rituals (Sims, Martha, & Stephens, 2011).