Chiropractor Naturopaths

Naturopathy is a form of alternative medicine that is based on the belief in the vitalism. A basic explanation of vitalism is that the human body has natural energy that controls its functions and allows it to heal itself. Naturopathic doctors seek to help people heal themselves through these natural means and avoid the excessive use of synthetic drugs and painful surgeries. It is becoming more and more prevalent in the Northwestern United States. In places like Bellevue, Washington, clinics are set up where these naturopathic doctors can give a variety of treatments. Bellevue chiropractor naturopaths also practice massage, acupuncture and a host of other natural treatments.

But where did this unique medical practice begin? Many credit the ancient Greek Hippocrates with being the first to practice naturopathic medicine. This, of course, was well before the term 'naturopath' even existed. But Hippocrates was said to have been a strong advocate of natural medicine.

More and more forms of naturopathic medicine began popping up in Europe and the U.S. during the 19th century. Things like the Nature Cure movement and Thomas Allinson's 'Hygienic Medicine,' which promoted a healthy diet and exercise, gained momentum in Europe. The Mormons in the U.S. began practicing what they called the 'Word of Wisdom,' which called for avoidance of things like tobacco, alcohol, tea, and coffee as well as other harmful drugs.

But the term naturopathy wasn't actually around until John Scheel first coined it in 1895. Dr. Benedict Lust, who founded the first school of naturopathic medicine (the American School of Naturopathy) in New York in 1901, later purchased the term and began teaching the techniques he learned in Germany. These included techniques like homeopathy, hydrotherapy, and herbal medicine.

The American Naturopathic Society was formed in 1919 and practicing naturopaths became licensed. Naturopathic principles began to have influence in other area of medicine. Chiropractors (much like the Bellevue chiropractor naturopaths mentioned earlier) were some of the first to adopt naturopathy.

The rapid growth during the early 1900s was followed by a period of decline starting in the 30s. Due in part to the holistic healing movement of the 1970s, naturopathy has had a comeback of sorts and is currently practiced with license in 15 of the 50 states. There are 9 schools that offer some sort of degree or certification in naturopathy, and 2 schools where a person can become a licensed doctor of naturopathy.