Naturopathy (also known as naturopathic medicine or natural medicine) is an alternative medical system that focuses on natural remedies and the body's supposed vitalistic ability to heal and maintain itself. The term "naturopathy" is derived from Greek and Latin translated as "nature disease". Naturopathic philosophy favors a holistic approach and minimal use of surgery and drugs. Modern naturopathy grew out of the Natural Cure movement of Europe. The term was coined in 1895 by John Scheel and popularized by Benedict Lust,the "father of U.S. naturopathy".Beginning in the 1970s, there was a revival of interest in the United States and Canada in conjunction with the holistic health movement.
