Hyderabad: The Ministry of AYUSH celebrates National Naturopathy Day on November 18 every year to strengthen public understanding about naturopathy and its benefits. Naturopathy, a globally leading alternative medicine approach, focuses on healing and promoting natural health through the use of natural resources and activities.
The celebration of National Naturopathy Day is a vital initiative to spread knowledge and awareness about naturopathy among the general population in India and beyond. The Ministry of AYUSH is orchestrating this event with the aim of creating awareness about the principles and benefits of naturopathic practices.
Naturopathy occupies an important place in the field of alternative medicine, not only in India but also in various parts of the world. Its fundamental philosophy revolves around the treatment of disease and the promotion of general well-being by harnessing the healing potential of natural elements.
Importance – The commemoration of National Naturopathy Day serves as a platform to highlight the importance of raising awareness about naturopathy. This holistic approach to healthcare encourages individuals to explore natural, non-invasive methods to maintain and restore health. By promoting information and understanding, the celebration aims to enable individuals to make informed choices regarding their well-being, adopting the principles of naturopathy as a path to a healthier lifestyle.
What is Naturopathy? – Naturopathy, an ancient medical system used around the world, especially in countries like India, is a holistic approach to health care. Often linked to Ayurveda due to similarities in principles, goals and rules, naturopathy extends beyond a simple treatment method; he embodies a lifestyle.
Objective of Naturopathy – Although naturopathy addresses various health issues, its primary goal is to maintain overall well-being. Dietary and lifestyle regulations take precedence in naturopathic practices, guiding individuals toward a harmonious relationship with nature. Additionally, naturopathy incorporates activities and treatments using natural resources, including purification rituals and practices related to water, sun and soil.
Prevention occupies a central role in naturopathy, emphasizing its importance as a proactive approach to health care. Tailoring treatments to suit the individual’s body, environment and lifestyle highlights the personalized nature of naturopathic care. Natural medicines, therapies and exercises, chosen for their minimal impact on the body, are an integral part of this medical system.
Naturopathy notably complements allopathy and other medical methodologies, allowing a combined approach to health management. Its focus extends beyond the treatment of disease to the enhancement of natural well-being, contributing to its appeal as a complementary health option.
History- The roots of naturopathy date back to Thomas Allinson’s promotion of “hygienic medicine” in 1880, promoting a natural diet and regular physical activity. However, the widespread acceptance of naturopathy as an alternative medicine is attributed to American naturopath Benedict Lust, recognized as the father of naturopathy in the United States. The term itself is derived from the Latin word “Natura”, meaning nature, and the Greek word “Patho”. “, meaning suffering or pain, summarizing its essence as a natural treatment.
Naturopathy in India – Dronamraju Venkatachalapathy Sarma’s 1894 Telugu translation of German nutritionist Louis Kuhne’s book, “The New Science of Healing”, was the catalyst for the resurgence of naturopathy in India. Later, in 1904, Shri Shroti Kishan Swaroop translated it into Hindi and Urdu with the aim of advancing naturopathy. The states of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Bengal, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh saw the birth of the Indian naturopathy movement, where dedicated individuals made substantial contributions in this field.
Mahatma Gandhi played a role in the introduction and popularization of naturopathy in India. In 1945, he became life president of the All India Nature Cure Foundation Trust, signing a deed to make the benefits of Nature Cure accessible to all. The tradition of celebrating Naturopathy Day on November 18 was initiated by the Ministry of AYUSH in 2018, marking an official recognition of the importance of Naturopathy in promoting natural health and well-being.
