How does Okonkwo handle his exile in things fall apart?

When Ezinma has her fever, Okonkwo goes into the bushes with his machete and collects leaves, grasses and barks for making medicine. He boils them in a pot, and does not let it boil over. Okonkwo then forces Ezinma to be steamed in the medicine, under a tent formed by a large mat. Okonkwo holds her down even while she chokes and struggles to escape.