Our common practice is to go to a doctor for the treatment of illnesses that manifest physically. A patient describes his symptoms and is subsequently prescribed a medication that the specialist feels is appropriate for the ailment. We may or may not respond to the medication. If we do not, the next prescription could be for a broad-spectrum antibiotic. This shotgun approach may eventually "hit the target," but is this a sound method that is able to cure the disease at its source? Or does it merely eliminate the symptoms, only for them to manifest later as something worse?
Many people are now beginning to look at more natural ways of battling with their ailments. They are considering a wide range of therapies – from the organic, homeopathic cures to the more evolved holistic method long accepted in Europe in the early 20th century.
Majority of medical doctors, however, still frown on this idea perhaps because such a radical paradigm shift is difficult to make at a late stage in one’s practice. But there is a handful who are open to the merging of spirituality and science and who have started to look beyond the manifestations of the physical towards a study of the soul and spiritual aspect of the human being. After all, we have always invoked the Divine whenever we are sick, so why not consider one’s spiritual development in confronting our sickness? Seen in this light, cleansing will not be limited to detoxification of our physical body but will also necessitate improvement in our soul and spiritual dispositions as important parts of healing.
Esoteric as it may sound, this process affirms the cosmic enigma of our creation. Life extends beyond what the eye can see or what the body can feel; hence our spiritual connection to the Divine must likewise be healthy. If we start looking into this as an aid in healing, it will encourage the individual to incorporate spiritual consciousness in everyday life to sustain his well-being. Therefore, a person conscious of the importance of his daily body, soul and spiritual balance will be healthier as a whole compared to another whose spiritual habit is limited to a weekly demonstration of faith.
What makes a person sick? Even science agrees that a person’s vulnerability to diseases depends on his character and disposition. Hotheaded people are prone to heart disease while people who bear their pains quietly and internalize their anger are predisposed to cancer. We are not disregarding genetic, nutrition and other factors of course. Another way to heal ourselves is to acknowledge our shortcomings and transform the negative energy to healing forces. This conscious approach of transforming oneself from within is indeed difficult, but this was how I was introduced to anthroposophic medicine.
In anthroposophic medicine, one looks into the role of the body, soul and spirit in staying well or in managing an ailment. Causes of the disease and what could be worked on in these three aspects in order to heal are considered in treating the disorder. Healing then becomes a science and an art in managing these facets.
How can one not be fascinated by this method of medication? Take, for example, the chamomile, locally known as azeite de manzanilla and used for baby’s colic. The chamomile plant is known for its healing properties in easing gas pains and aiding relaxation. This plant – which has small white petals that resemble a daisy’s – may be made into a tea that aids digestion. Blue oil that has soothing properties is extracted from this plant. When the medication soothes, it calms the soul, leaving one’s stomach to do its function properly.
It is now common knowledge that an upset stomach may be the result of eating while one is excited or disturbed. A bothered soul may deter the total breakdown or digestion of the food. This perspective encourages one to look closely at his attitude and improve his disposition to better his health.
What could be the cause of stomach distress? Should it be treated with strong antacids? What about looking into how a person reacts towards the stimulus? If one looks inward, we may see the real cause of the problem and by so doing, the healing may start from within. With the aid of the chamomile plant as medication, a treatment is derived that does not disconnect one from the laws of nature. There is now active participation in one’s own healing and the approach is not left up to the effectiveness of synthetic medications. Anthroposophic medicine offers this unique difference. This type of medication protects the patient against any organ damage that is the usual side effect of western medicines.
I am no doctor, but definitely I am a patient that avails of the benefits of anthroposophic medicine on a regular basis. I am gratified to know that the Divine being has provided through nature such wondrous plants that aid in healing. I am also proud of the knowledge I derive from taking in medicinal plants that go well with my constitution and temperament. To my delight, I have also learned that anthroposophic medicine agrees with allopathic medicine and both could be taken together with no ill effects whatsoever.
The Anthroposophia Wellness Foundation Inc. will host a public lecture on anthroposophic medicine on March 11 from 12:30 to 6 p.m. at the Maryhill School of Theology, 14th St. corner Gilmore St., New Manila, Quezon City. The event is open to all interested parties. Topics include: Overview of anthroposophic medicine by Michael Evans M.D.; home care by Jocelyn Freeman R.N. and Michelle Vette R.N.; anthroposophic pharmacy by Albert Joseph Schmidli, pharmacist; and child care – a challenge to parents, doctors and teachers by Michaela Glockler M.D. There will be a eurythmy performance by Leonard Orta and his students.
For tickets and inquiries, call (+632) 638-7503, e-mail heydoc@info.com.ph or visit the Anthroposophia Wellness Foundation office at 55 Scout Ybardolaza St., South Triangle, Q.C.