# A Victorian nature cure philosophy as a reconciliation of Romantic Naturalism and laboratory medicine: the case of E.W. Lane’s (1823–89) hygienic medicine

## TL;DR

This paper explores how Victorian physician E.W. Lane blended Romantic naturalism with modern medicine through his hygienic medicine philosophy.

## Contribution

The paper introduces Lane's theoretical framework as a unique example of Victorian nature cure philosophy reconciliation.

## Key findings

- Lane's work reflects a reconciliation of Romantic naturalism with laboratory medicine.
- Lane's concept of 'hygienic medicine' aimed to redefine disease and medicine through nature's healing power.
- Lane's philosophy highlights the intellectual tensions in 19th-century medical thought.

## Abstract

This article primarily concentrates on the theoretical and intellectual dimensions of nature cure, particularly efforts to revive it during the second half of the nineteenth century. Little is known about specific medical professionals or theories concerning the Victorian philosophy of nature cure, although this philosophy is mentioned in general terms in studies on alternative medicine and hygiene. This article illuminates a Victorian nature cure philosophy through the works of Edward W. Lane (1823–1889). As a physician and hydropathist, Lane aspired to create a new form of medical system, ‘hygienic medicine’, seeking answers to the questions ‘What is disease?’ and ‘What is medicine?’ throughout his career. Lane was among many physicians interested in nature’s healing power during his time. However, few undertook as thorough a theorisation of nature cure philosophy as Lane did in the latter half of the nineteenth century, a period that presented unprecedented challenges in reconciling medicine with nature. This study explores the subtle nuances of the concepts that Lane actively used in his theoretical explanations, including ‘nature’, ‘laws of health’ and ‘vital force’, interpreting his efforts as a reconciliation between Romantic naturalism and laboratory medicine. The aim of this study is not to re-evaluate the significance of Lane’s medical theory itself. It rather uses Lane as a lens to reveal the intricacies of Victorian nature cure philosophy.