Pune, October 13 (IANS). Pune-based National Institute of Naturopathy has proved in an important research that techniques like hydrotherapy (water therapy) and steam bath (steam bath) have their roots in the traditional medical systems of India. These are the same methods which are being adopted across the world today in the name of Naturopathy (Natural Medicine).
It has been told in this research that centuries ago in India, water and steam were used in the treatment of many diseases in Ayurveda and Unani medicine. Be it bathing with hot water, applying cold compresses, or giving steam, all these have been a part of traditional medicine in India. Here it was considered not just a cleansing of the body, but a deep healing process.
Today, hydrotherapy, which is being seen as a modern treatment in Europe and America, had actually been laid long ago in India. Such as swedana (steam bath), an ancient part of Ayurveda, which aims to flush out toxins from the body through sweat. Similarly, in the Unani system also, methods of treatment with hot water and steam have been explained in detail.
Research has also shown that the real inspiration for what is considered Naturopathy as a modern science in Europe and America today comes from Indian traditions only. Although Naturopathy, as a distinct medical system, is considered to have originated from Germany, which reached India via America in the 19th century, it was never considered foreign in India. The reason is that its basic principles like Panchmahabhoota, fasting, vegetarianism, fresh air and exercise were already included in the Indian lifestyle.
Even today we see that methods like herbal steam, oil massage, fasting, yoga and naturopathy are common in India and are now being adopted across the world in the name of wellness therapy. This research reminds us that the global journey of Naturopathy started from the traditions of India and even today India’s contribution in this direction is very special.
–IANS
PIM/AS
