|
NDSelect.com is the fastest and easiest way to locate a Naturopathic Doctor.
Moved to a new area?
Want a natural approach to healing?
Looking for a new Naturopathic Doctor?
NDSelect.com can help.
|
|
|
|
Introduction to Naturopathic Medicine
|
|
|
History and Development of Naturopathic Medicine
The philosophy on which naturopathy is based can be traced backed to Hippocrates, a Greek physician living at about 400 B.C. Physicians in the time of Hippocrates believed that they should try to understand as much as possible about the laws of nature, and apply it to their practice in a practical way. Hippocrates coined the term "the healing power of nature," to symbolize the body’s ability to heal itself.
In the late 19th and early 20th century, naturopathic medicine evolved and grew enormously, rivaling conventional medicine in popularity. In North America, Benedict Lust, a German doctor who emigrated to the U.S. helped to bring naturopathic medicine to the forefront. In 1902, Dr. Lust coined the term “Naturopathy” to name his teachings on natural healing that he envisioned as the future of natural medicine. Dr. Lust is credited with sharpening the focus of naturopathy on diet and nutrition as the primary way to improved health.
The use of naturopathic medicine increased dramatically in the first half of the 20th century with the opening of multiple naturopathic medical schools, thousands of naturopathic physicians practicing, and thousands of patients treated using naturopathic therapies. However, after World War II, naturopathic medicine began to lose favor due to the rise of advanced medical technologies, improved surgical procedures and the proliferation of pharmaceuticals.
By the 1970s, there was growing backlash against conventional medicine. A growing resentment of invasive surgeries and costly prescription medications resulted in revived interest in naturopathic medicine as well as other alternatives This trend continues today as more and more people are becoming increasingly health conscious and taking ownership over their personal health care. Today, people turn to naturopathic medicine as a means of both disease prevention and treatment.
|
|
|
