Naturopath

Naturopathy or naturopathic medicine is a form of alternative medicine that employs an array of pseudoscientific practices branded as "natural", "non-invasive", and as promoting "self-healing". The ideology and methods of naturopathy are based on vitalism and folk medicine, rather than evidence-based medicine (EBM). Naturopathic practitioners generally recommend against modern medical practices, including but not limited to surgery, drugs, and vaccination.

History

Naturopathy is considered to have originated in the 19th-century as a parallel to the rise of modern medicine. Benedict Lust, a German immigrant, is often recognized as the founder of naturopathy in the United States. Lust was inspired by the water cure (hydrotherapy) methods practiced in Germany.

Principles and Practice

Naturopathy emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care. The practice of naturopathy is based on a belief in the body's ability to heal itself through a special vital energy or force guiding bodily processes internally. Diagnosis and treatment concern primarily lifestyle adjustments, dietary modifications, and the use of herbs and other naturally derived health products.

Criticism and Controversies

Naturopathy has been criticized for its reliance on and its association with unproven, disproven, and other controversial alternative medical treatments, and for its vitalistic underpinnings. The field lacks biological plausibility and is not supported by evidence.

See Also

• Alternative medicine
• Homeopathy
• Ayurveda
• Traditional Chinese medicine

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