As I reached for the milk while baking a cake with my teen today, I was reminded of the time when milk was more than just an ingredient—it was a powerful healing therapy. The old ways, where raw milk was celebrated for its health benefits, stand in stark contrast to the heavily regulated and processed products we use today. While we've gained much in the realms of science and technology, it's worth considering what we've lost in our disconnect from the natural, holistic approaches to health.
Raw milk has been illegal for sale in Victoria since 2015, following the tragic death of a child in 2014. Initially, authorities linked the child's death to the consumption of raw milk, leading to the swift legislative action that effectively banned its sale for human consumption.
However, it was later revealed that the child had an underlying medical condition unrelated to the milk, yet the legislation remained in place, and the ban has never been repealed.
This situation is particularly interesting given the historical context of raw milk's use in medical treatment. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, raw milk was widely used in Europe, especially in sanatoriums and similar institutions, as part of what was known as the "milk cure." These institutions treated a variety of chronic illnesses with diets consisting largely or entirely of raw milk. The rich nutrient profile of raw milk was believed to aid in the recovery from ailments such as tuberculosis, digestive disorders, and even mental health conditions by providing easily digestible nutrients, promoting detoxification, and supporting the immune system.
The turning point for raw milk and many other holistic practices came with the introduction of the Flexner Report in 1910. Funded by the Carnegie Foundation and authored by Abraham Flexner, the report led to a significant overhaul of the medical education system in the United States, which influenced global practices. Before this, the medical field included a diverse range of practices, including chiropractic, homeopathic, energy and frequency healing, heliotherapy, and, indeed, milk therapy. The Flexner Report, however, marked the beginning of a shift towards a more standardised, scientifically rigorous (yet reductionist) approach to medicine, which ultimately side-lined many holistic practices.
The Rockefellers, who owned vast oil fields, saw an opportunity to use petrochemicals in the creation of pharmaceuticals. Aligned with the Carnegies, they supported the recommendations of the Flexner Report, which led to the closure of many holistic universities and the criminalisation of alternative practices, branding them as "quackery." This marked the rise of Western medicine, which became increasingly focused on pharmaceuticals—a trend that continues today, with significant influence over medical education and practice.
Western medicine, while invaluable in many respects, often adopts a reductionist and mechanistic approach, focusing more on treating symptoms than addressing the root causes of disease. This system, while effective for acute conditions, tends to overlook the connection between body, mind, and spirit that is central to holistic practices. This isn't to entirely demonise Western medicine—it certainly has its place. However, we've become so disconnected from our own roles in our healing journeys that we've largely outsourced responsibility to 'experts,' forgetting the power we hold in our own health and wellbeing.
Fortunately, we are witnessing a resurgence of interest in traditional and holistic healing methods. People are beginning to rediscover and reclaim these suppressed modalities, recognising their potential to support true healing when given the chance.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern medicine, perhaps it's time to revisit the wisdom of the past. By blending traditional practices with contemporary knowledge, we can reclaim a more balanced approach to healing—one that honours the mind, body and the spirit, and recognises the profound role we play in our own well-being.
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