St. Hildegard of Bingen, born around 1098 in what is now modern-day Germany, was a multifaceted figure known for her significant contributions to theology, music, and medicine. As a Benedictine abbess, writer, composer, philosopher, and Christian mystic, Hildegard left an indelible mark on her era.
St. Hildegard of Bingen was a pioneer in holistic health, integrating spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Her medical works, such as Physica and Causae et Curae, emphasize the balance of the four humors and elements to achieve health. She recommended herbal remedies, healthy diets, proper sleep, and hot baths, along with a positive attitude and spiritual practices like meditation and the activation of virtues.
Hildegard believed that healing the soul was essential for healing the body, and advocated for moderation in all aspects of life to maintain balance and harmony. Her approach underscores the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual health, making her a significant figure in the development of holistic medicine.
Hildegard documented the medicinal properties of nearly 300 herbs, plants, and trees in her works Physica and Causae et Curae. She used these natural remedies to treat a wide range of ailments, from digestion issues and balding to menstrual difficulties and sexual health problems. Her remedies included compresses, potions, and pioneered the medicinal use of a Spelt-based diet — considered a superfood for both body and soul in Hildegard medicine — as well as the herb Galangal.
Here’s a brief overview capturing St. Hildegard’s major achievements.
Dr. Wighard Strehlow, Karin, and Dr. Sebastian Liew were in the SLC clinic on Trans Street (early 2000).
Hildegard emphasized the role of spiritual energy in healing, believing health is deeply tied to one’s spiritual state. She introduced the concept of viriditas, or “greenness,” a divine energy that can be restored through nature. Practices like meditation, prayer, and aligning with God’s will were central to restoring spiritual and physical well-being.
Hildegard identified 35 virtues as essential healing forces, counteracting corresponding vices that harm health. Virtues like love, trust, and hope positively impact physical health by reducing stress. She advocated activating these virtues through meditation and practicing talents to heal the soul and support physical well-being.
Hildegard’s approach to holistic healing involved the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water, which she believed were integral to health. Her writings explained how these elements influence well-being and that restoring their balance in the body and environment is crucial for achieving overall health.
Hildegard promoted the use of natural remedies for physical healing, categorizing plants as “hot” or “cold” and using them to treat ailments. Her approach included herbal treatments, dietary recommendations, and using both local and exotic ingredients to restore the body’s natural balance.
Hildegard stressed the importance of balance and moderation in life, including diet, rest, and activity, while integrating spiritual practices like prayer. Her treatment plans involved reducing stress, maintaining routines, and community support, reflecting a holistic approach to health by balancing physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects.
St. Hildegard of Bingen (1098–1179) was a Benedictine abbess, Christian mystic, and medical pioneer who developed one of the earliest systems of holistic health in medieval Europe. Her works, Physica and Causae et Curae, emphasize the integration of body, mind, and spirit for healing. She taught that health comes from harmony between the elements, emotions, virtues, and nature. Today, her philosophy influences modern naturopathy and herbalism, especially in Europe and Asia, through practitioners like Dr. Sebastian Liew.
The five pillars of St. Hildegard’s medicine are:
Hildegard’s herbal medicine focuses on balancing “hot” and “cold” herbs to restore internal harmony, rather than just treating symptoms. She documented over 300 plants, including Spelt and Galangal, and emphasized their effects on both body and soul. Her approach goes beyond modern supplements by incorporating spiritual alignment, diet, and emotional health as part of treatment—creating a deeply rooted, holistic system still practiced today
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