History of Naturopathy

Naturopathy is a form of alternative medicine and is often referred to as naturopathic medicine or art of healing using natural medicines. Naturopathy uses a holistic approach to cure an illness. A naturopathic doctor understands the body, soul and mind of a person before he starts the treatment. Naturopathy focuses mainly on two areas - the healing ability of body and the lifestyle of a person. Naturopathy stresses on using various therapies such as acupuncture, sauna bath and so on to cure the disease. In early 20th century, naturopathy was practiced widely in the US than in other countries.

History of Naturopathy

The history of naturopathy could be traced back to 400 BC. It was practiced in ancient Greece. However, Dr Benedict Lust is considered the founder of modern-day naturopathy. Dr Lust not only practiced the art of natural healing but also introduced it in the US in the year 1892.

Dr Benedict Lust was a student of the hydrotherapy practitioner Father Kneipp.1n 1902, Dr Lust established the American School of Naturopathy.

1902 to 1917 were the formative period of naturopathic medicine and art of natural healing in the US. Dr Lust stressed on the hygiene, diet habits, hydrotherapy and emotional strength as essential tools for a healthy body. He merged herbalism with naturopathic healing.

1918 to 1937 were known as the halcyon years. During this period, naturopathy gained importance and general public not only supported but also showed a keen interest in naturopathic medicines and therapies. Many states in the US introduced naturopathic licensure laws during these halcyon years.

During late 1920s and early 1930s many naturopathic journals were circulated among the general public in the US. This was done to provide information on how to prevent disease and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Naturopathic journals emphasized on the eating habits of the common man and focused on taking measures to correct poor eating habits. Naturopathy advises to include fiber rich food and stresses on cutting down on red meat.

In 1945, Dr Benedict Lust died. After his death, there was a decline in usage of naturopathic medicines and therapies in the United States. During this period more importance was given to allopathic medicines and treatment.

In 1960s, the general public of America became more aware of the good nutrition and healthy lifestyles. During this period importance was given to alternative medicines and naturopathy was rejuvenated.

In 1978, the first naturopathic college known as the National College of Naturopathic Medicine was established in America. This was the first legitimate college for naturopathy.

In 1987, Bastyr University became the first naturopathic college to be accredited and recognized by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education.

Today, naturopathy is practiced widely not only in the US but around the globe. Naturopathic therapies should be undertaken only with a naturopathy practitioner who has a license to practice. In the US, 11 states have officially recognized this form of medicine by granting licenses to practice naturopathic medicine. Naturopathic medicines, therapies and techniques are creating a paradigm shift in the history of medicine.