Naturopathy
This
is also known as Nature Cure and has been in practice in some form or
the other in almost all cultures since time immemorial. The Ayurvedic,
homeopathic and Unani systems of medicine also incorporate aspects of
naturopathy.
Naturopathy was first developed as a systematic approach to healing by a
19th-century German therapist, Vincent Preissnitz. Sixty years ago,
Harry Benedict, an American healer, propounded the basic tenets of
naturopathy and established the five approaches to treatment -- fasting,
the therapeutic use of diets, hydrotherapy, exercising and psychological
counselling. Other methods such as massage and osteopathy were added on
later.
Naturopaths believe that many illnesses arise as a result of an
unhealthy lifestyle and poor posture, and that restoring the body to a
natural state by natural means will allow the body to recover.
Naturopathy stresses on the restorative powers of Nature, the search for
underlying causes of disease, and holistic healing.
Naturopathic medicine offers a wide variety of natural, non-invasive
remedies for an array of ailments. Some of its recommendations, such as
certain dietary modifications and the use of selected vitamins and food
supplements, have been shown in scientific studies to confer lasting
health benefits, and have been accepted by conventional medicine.
Other prescriptions include detoxifying enemas, herbal medicines,
dietary restrictions (such as eliminating meats or dairy products),
biofeedback, and hypnotherapy. Naturopaths typically recommend an
assortment of approaches in an attempt to boost the patient's immune
system, restore good health, and prevent disease.
In general, naturopathy offers a wealth of helpful approaches to a
healthier diet and lifestyle. Many of its tenets, such as a diet high in
fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are now standard recommendations
for those hoping to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and
obesity. Its non-invasive physical therapy techniques also offer
significant relief from a variety of muscle and joint complaints.
