Introducing Anthroposophical Medicine

Book excerpt: In these twenty lectures, given to medical doctors and students, Rudolf Steiner presents a new approach to the art of healing, based on the insights of anthroposophical spiritual science. Taking account of modern medical knowledge and practice, and deeply versed in alchemical, Paracelsian, and naturopathic approaches, as well as in homeopathy, aromatherapy, and of her alternative therapies, Steiner demonstrates on the basis of his own researches how a truly integrated "whole person" medicine is possible-one that understands the human as a being of body, soul, and spirit: a microcosm in the macrocosm; a mirror of the earth and of the heavens. Many of the lectures arose directly in response to the questions of practicing physicians. Specific organs and specific diseases are brought into new relations and connections. The whole question of diagnosis, health and treatment is viewed from different perspectives. The result is a new vision of medicine: one that is practical, spiritual, psychological, and fully human.