The Kneipp Cure - Page 2
© Traute Klein, biogardener
The methods became popular in the German-speaking countries of Europe as news of the amazing results spread. The practices have not only gained in popularity in the last hundred years, they have led to the establishment of Kneipp spas in sixty German cities. The medical community in Germany recognizes the benefits of the system. The national health insurance pays for treatments, both preventative and curative.
Hydrotherapy
- The reasoning behind kneippen (pronounce kni-pen, yes, the K is pronounced) is simple. Wading on wet grass or in shallow water stimulates internal organs, strengthens the immune system, and helps the body to heal itself.
There are other aspects of hydrotherapy which I remember, and to my knowledge, most Germans practice many of these. One is called "Wechselbad," literally "change bath." The feet are exposed to hot and cold water alternately. This is the same principle which we learn from the Finns who alternate between a hot sauna and a dip in a cold lake or a roll in the snow. Both of these practices encourage the body to do its own healing.
Herbalism
- In Germany, natural healing methods have always been accepted by the people as well as by the medical establishment. A physician's prescription might include a herbal product as readily as a pharmaceutical. The pharmacists I have known are as knowledgeable in herbalism as in pharmacy and sell both types of products. Sebastian Kneipp's use of herbs is nothing unusual in the country. Every German home carries an assortment of herbal remedies. Many products are marketed under the name Kneipp. After all, the company might as well take advantage of a trusted name by attaching it to a product which is bound to sell.
Further Hints
- You can get further hints about how to use the health-giving practice of kneippen by reading the suggestions in this discussion thread.
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