Nature Cures

The History of Alternative Medicine in America

Nonfiction, Health & Well Being, Medical, Alternative & Holistic Medicine, Holistic Medicine, Reference, History, Alternative Medicine
Cover of the book Nature Cures by James C. Whorton, Oxford University Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: James C. Whorton ISBN: 9780190286330
Publisher: Oxford University Press Publication: September 26, 2002
Imprint: Oxford University Press Language: English
Author: James C. Whorton
ISBN: 9780190286330
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Publication: September 26, 2002
Imprint: Oxford University Press
Language: English

From reflexology and rolfing to shiatsu and dream work, we are confronted today by a welter of alternative medical therapies. But as James Whorton shows in Nature Cures, the recent explosion in alternative medicine actually reflects two centuries of competition and conflict between mainstream medicine and numerous unorthodox systems. This is the first comprehensive history of alternative medicine in America, examining the major systems that have emerged from 1800 to the present. Writing with wit and with fairness to all sides, Whorton offers a fascinating look at alternative health systems such as homeopathy, water cures, Mesmerism, Christian Science, osteopathy, chiropractic, naturopathy, and acupuncture. He highlights the birth and growth of each system (including European roots where appropriate) and vividly describes both the theories and the therapies developed within each system, including such dubious practices as hour-long walks barefoot in snow or Samuel Thompson's "puking and steaming" regimen. In particular, Whorton illuminates the philosophy of "natural healing" that has been espoused by alternative practitioners throughout history and the distinctive interpretations of "nature cure" developed by the different systems. Though he doesn't hesitate to point out the failings of these systems, he also shows that some "cult medicines" have eventually won recognition from practitioners of mainstream medicine. Throughout, Whorton writes with a light touch and quotes from contemporary humorists such as Mark Twain. His book is an engaging and authoritative history that highlights the course of alternative medicine in the U.S., providing valuable background to the wide range of therapies available today.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

From reflexology and rolfing to shiatsu and dream work, we are confronted today by a welter of alternative medical therapies. But as James Whorton shows in Nature Cures, the recent explosion in alternative medicine actually reflects two centuries of competition and conflict between mainstream medicine and numerous unorthodox systems. This is the first comprehensive history of alternative medicine in America, examining the major systems that have emerged from 1800 to the present. Writing with wit and with fairness to all sides, Whorton offers a fascinating look at alternative health systems such as homeopathy, water cures, Mesmerism, Christian Science, osteopathy, chiropractic, naturopathy, and acupuncture. He highlights the birth and growth of each system (including European roots where appropriate) and vividly describes both the theories and the therapies developed within each system, including such dubious practices as hour-long walks barefoot in snow or Samuel Thompson's "puking and steaming" regimen. In particular, Whorton illuminates the philosophy of "natural healing" that has been espoused by alternative practitioners throughout history and the distinctive interpretations of "nature cure" developed by the different systems. Though he doesn't hesitate to point out the failings of these systems, he also shows that some "cult medicines" have eventually won recognition from practitioners of mainstream medicine. Throughout, Whorton writes with a light touch and quotes from contemporary humorists such as Mark Twain. His book is an engaging and authoritative history that highlights the course of alternative medicine in the U.S., providing valuable background to the wide range of therapies available today.

More books from Oxford University Press

Cover of the book Always On : Language In An Online And Mobile World by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book Coping with Stress by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book Wine and Conversation by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book The Beats: A Very Short Introduction by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book The Oxford Handbook of Criminal Process by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book The U.S. Supreme Court: A Very Short Introduction by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book International Copyright by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book The Magic Lantern by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book The Picture of Dorian Gray - With Audio Level 3 Oxford Bookworms Library by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book Stories from the Five Towns Level 2 Oxford Bookworms Library by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book Economic Policy: Theory and Practice by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book Innovation Generation by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book Defining Creole by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book Academic Motivation and the Culture of Schooling by James C. Whorton
Cover of the book Drugs and Justice by James C. Whorton
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy