Why did naturopathic medicine evolve as a separate branch of the healing arts?
Throughout medical history, there has been a strong tradition of natural healing. This tradition forms the basis of modern naturopathic medicine. In 1900, a group of medical doctors (M. D.s), and practitioners of natural healing arts formed the Naturopathic Society of America. These physicians also established naturopathic colleges and large sanitariums throughout North America. Most of these early naturopathic doctors received a portion of their training in European natural healing centers, some of which are still flourishing. After 1950, a post war fascination with medical technology resulted in a declining interest in naturopathic medicine. However, a short 20 years later, a profound rebirth as public interest began shifting back to natural methods of healing care for millions of North Americans.
