Orthopathy

Orthopathy, also known by its alternate term "Natural Hygiene" (NH), stands at the crossroads of naturopathy and alternative medical philosophy. With its roots deeply embedded in the practices of vegetarianism, raw food consumption, and intermittent fasting, orthopathy poses both as a health alternative and a topic of contention among medical professionals.

Origins and Etymology

Derived from the Greek terms "ortho-" meaning "right" and "pathos" indicating "suffering," the essence of Orthopathy revolves around the belief in "right suffering." As elucidated by Herbert M. Shelton, disease is a natural reaction to adverse conditions, and it is this suffering that leads to healing.

Historical Development

Beginnings

The seeds of the orthopathy movement were sown by Dr. Isaac Jennings. After dedicating two decades to practicing traditional medicine in Derby, Connecticut, Dr. Jennings commenced the articulation of his orthopathic ideas in 1822. Influences on this budding movement were not limited to Jennings. Pioneers like Sylvester Graham from Connecticut have left indelible marks on its progression.

Evolution of the Concept

During the late 19th century, Thomas Allinson emerged with his theory known as 'Hygienic Medicine,' propelling the orthopathic conversation forward. However, it was Herbert M. Shelton who took on the mantle to be a prolific writer on the subject. His magnum opus, The Hygienic System: Orthopathy (1939), not only renamed the discipline but also set it apart from contemporaneous medical ideologies.

While Shelton progressively leaned towards a vegetarian and then vegan dietary recommendation, the broader NH community showcases diverse opinions. One universal observation that the Nature Cure movement and Shelton relied upon, which is often overlooked by conventional medicine, is the tendency of ailing animals to rest and fast, consuming only water.

The dawn of the 1980s witnessed a revival of interest in NH, significantly influenced by works like Fit for Life and Living Health by Harvey and Marilyn Diamond. Over the years, associations championing NH have sprung up, with entities like the National Health Association and The International Natural Hygiene Society coming to the fore.

Practice and Beliefs

NH staunchly believes in the body's innate healing powers, often encapsulated in the Latin phrase vis medicatrix naturae. For most ailments, the prescription is simple - rest, fast, and let nature take its course. Intervening with alternative treatments, according to NH, disrupts the natural healing process.

Practitioners of NH generally eschew both mainstream and alternative treatments, barring a few instances like surgeries for bone fractures. The diet prescribed is intricate, emphasizing the consumption of 'compatible' foods while avoiding 'incompatible' ones. Shelton’s extensive classification of foods, based on function, sets the dietary blueprint for adherents.

Notably, orthopathy is dismissive of the germ theory of disease. It categorizes various everyday consumables, ranging from sugar, tobacco, to even certain herbs and spices, as toxic.

Criticisms and Controversies

NH has not been without its detractors. One of the principal critiques against orthopathy is its advocacy for prolonged fasting as opposed to conventional medical treatments. Stephen Barrett, associated with Quackwatch, has been particularly vocal about his concerns, highlighting the potential risks of dairy avoidance leading to conditions like osteoporosis.

See also

• Intermittent fasting
• Raw foodism

Orthopathy Resources
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