Germany has a long tradition in naturopathy. A forerunner of Dr. Wohlfahrt, the doctor whose house Harry loves to break into, is a key figure in naturopathy. She was Abbess Hildegard von Bingen (1098 - 1179), who is even referred to by some as the first German female doctor. This multitalented woman was involved in medicine, religion, music and ethics. She also wrote many works on those topics. Of particular interest to some these days are her holistic view of healing, which is based on nutrition, the use of medicinal plants and gemstones – and mindfulness.
Even today, some alternative practitioners and doctors have picked up her approach. In organic supermarkets and health food stores, you can find teas and herbal mixtures based on Hildegard von Bingen's recipes, as well as products made with spelt. This ancient grain was one of her favorites – roasted as coffee, muesli or ground for bread, cookies and soups. The interest in Hildegard also goes beyond Germany. International congresses, research groups and Hildegard societies show the fascination her teachings hold – even in the 21st century