“The ‘regular’ school of medicine, as a body, has ignored and will ignore this science, because it discloses the fallacy of their favorite theories and practices and because it reveals unmistakably the direful results of chronic drug poisoning and ill-advised operations.”
What is naturopathic medicine?
Naturopathy is a natural approach to healing that focuses on helping the body heal itself. Naturopathic doctors use a variety of natural treatments, including breath, water therapy, light, energetics, diet, herbs, physical therapy, and gentle adjustments. They may also use minor surgical procedures when necessary. The goal is to restore and maintain good health without relying on harsh drugs, injections, major surgeries, or radiation. Instead of suppressing symptoms, naturopathy works to address the root cause of illness and support the body's natural healing processes.
The scope of NDs varies by state, as not all states regulate naturopathic doctors.
A Brief History of Naturopathy
Naturopathy is a system of natural medicine that emphasizes the body's ability to heal itself through diet, lifestyle, and natural therapies. Its roots go back thousands of years, drawing from traditional healing practices worldwide.
Ancient Foundations
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) & Ayurveda (5,000+ years ago) emphasized balance, herbal medicine, and lifestyle for health.
Hippocrates (c. 460–370 BCE), the "Father of Medicine," promoted the healing power of nature, proper diet, and exercise.
European Herbal & Folk Medicine relied on plant-based treatments, hydrotherapy, and nutrition.
Modern Naturopathy (19th–20th Century)
Vincent Priessnitz (1799–1851, Austria) popularized hydrotherapy, using water for healing.
Sebastian Kneipp (1821–1897, Germany) expanded hydrotherapy and introduced herbal medicine, exercise, and nutrition.
Benedict Lust (1872–1945, Germany/USA) is considered the "Father of Naturopathy." He brought Kneipp’s methods to the U.S., founded the American School of Naturopathy (1902), and coined the term "naturopathy."
Challenges & Decline (Mid-20th Century)
The rise of pharmaceutical medicine, influenced by the Flexner Report (1910) (funded by Rockefeller and Carnegie), led to the closure of naturopathic schools.
The American Medical Association (AMA) actively discredited natural medicine, labeling it "unscientific."
By the 1950s, naturopathy declined as conventional medicine gained dominance.
Revival & Modern Naturopathy (Late 20th Century–Present)
Growing concerns about drug side effects and interest in holistic wellness led to a resurgence of naturopathy in the 1970s.
Accredited Naturopathic Medical Schools (such as Bastyr University, National University of Natural Medicine, and others) emerged, offering Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) degrees.
Naturopaths now integrate modern science with traditional healing, using functional medicine, nutrition, acupuncture, herbal medicine, and homeopathy.
Current Status
Naturopathy is recognized in many regions, with licensed NDs (Naturopathic Doctors) practicing alongside conventional medicine in some places.
However, regulatory challenges and opposition from the pharmaceutical-driven medical system persist.