From reflexology and rolfing to shiatsu and dream work, we're confronted right now by a welter of different medical therapies. However as James Whorton reveals in Nature Cures, the recent explosion in different medicine truly reflects two centuries of competitors and conflict between mainstream drugs and quite a few unorthodox systems.
This is the primary comprehensive history of alternative medication in America, examining the most important techniques which have emerged from 1800 to the present. Writing with wit and with equity to all sides, Whorton provides an interesting look at alternative health systems reminiscent of homeopathy, water cures, Mesmerism, Christian Science, osteopathy, chiropractic, naturopathy, and acupuncture. He highlights the start and growth of each system (together with European roots the place applicable) and vividly describes both the theories and the therapies developed inside every system, together with such doubtful practices as hour-lengthy walks barefoot in snow or Samuel Thompson's "puking and steaming" regimen. In particular, Whorton illuminates the philosophy of "pure therapeutic" that has been espoused by different practitioners throughout historical past and the distinctive interpretations of "nature cure" developed by the different systems. Although he would not hesitate to level out the failings of those systems, he additionally shows that some "cult medicines" have finally gained recognition from practitioners of mainstream medicine.
Throughout, Whorton writes with a light contact and quotes from modern humorists resembling Mark Twain. His guide is an interesting yet authoritative history that highlights the course of alternative drugs in the U.S., providing precious background to the big selection of therapies obtainable today.
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