Early Naturopathy: Basic Tenets and Theories
The European Healers
Naturopathy in America
Other American Healers
The American Naturopathic Association
Natural Healers and Education

EARLY NATUROPATHY

In looking at the natural healers and naturopaths of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, one can find many common points. All of them believed in healing by bringing strength to the individual rather than by curing specific diseases. All had a reverence for nature, and many of them could point to specific observations that led to the formation of theories and practices. Personal experience of illness and recovery often led them to practice natural healing. They frequently learned from each other or studied on their own, instead of, or in addition to, receiving a formal education. Most were persecuted by the medical establishment. Those on record were highly successful, bringing good health to many people.

Some Basic Tenets and Theories of Natural Healing

Whether they emphasized the use of hydrotherapy, nutrition, manipulation, herbs, or homeopathy, the goal for all practitioners of natural healing was to stimulate the body to heal itself. Vis medicatrix naturae, or the healing power of nature, remains central to naturopathic philosophy today. Rather than trying to attack specific diseases, natural healers focus on cleansing and strengthening the body. Regardless of the specific methodology, and regardless of whether the healer practiced in the last century or is active today, the approach remains basically the same.

| Naturopathy v. Naturopathic Medicine | Traditional Naturopathy |
| Position Papers: Naturopathy | Position Papers: Nutrition |