NATUROPATHY

Naturopathy, also called nature care, prescribes the `return to nature` formula to all physical ills. The main philosophy working behind this medical system is that, left to herself nature can take care of herself. And therein lies the belief in the advantages of the human body living in attunement with her. Nature care presents a strong stance against the chemical prevention of diseases and advocates the play of inherent natural defense mechanisms, which are self-curative and self-preventive. According to naturopathy, diseases are physical manifestations of the body`s attempt to heal itself when it falls out of harmony with its environment.

Naturopathy began as a quasi-spiritual movement against the medicinal experience of nineteenth century Europe. In the following centuries naturopathy grew in influence and began to rival mainstream medicine. Becoming diet and nutrition-oriented, naturopathy gave rise to new pro-nature, health food fads. After the World War II, however, naturopathy took a backseat with the onslaught of antibiotic science. Later, with the discovery of unsuspected side effects from DDT, thalidomide, and other high-tech wonders—people, once again, began to lean on the comforts of the time tested practices of naturopathy.

Nature care is primarily based on three principles: that the body possesses the power to heal itself through its internal vitality and intelligence; that disease is a manifestation of vital force applying itself to the removal of obstructions to the normal functioning of organs and tissues; that naturopathic cures should take a holistic approach to health. By integrating these principles, naturopathy seeks to stimulate the body`s inherent power to regain health with the help of the five natural elements—earth, air, fire, ether and water. Similar to the `five elements` theory or the Panchabhuta theory of ayurveda, naturopathy also works upon the ideal integration of these elements within the individual.

Patients going to a naturopath are treated in three stages. First, the diagnosis of their condition is made without using invasive techniques such as biopsies because they run counter to the naturopathic stance against surgery and use of drugs. Secondly, the patient is put on a detoxification regime that includes colon irrigation (to cleanse the colon), fasting, massage (to cleanse the skin), deep breathing (to clean the lungs), baths and exercises. The third step involves a corrective regime that includes a new diet with vitamin supplements, body manipulation, herbal compounds or acupuncture. Since it considers the body to be a self-healing organism, naturopathy assumes that given the right environment and the opportunity, the individual shall enjoy spontaneous repair, recovery and good health—thus avoiding ill health altogether.