Mesmerism | Aphorism | Organon of Medicine | HDS

Mesmerism is defined as a system of curing diseases by communicating strong will force in patients through touch or contact . It is done by a person of strong will power.

Mesmerism or Animal magnetism (§ 293 & 294 of 5th edition & § 288 & 289 of 6th edition) :-

Mesmerism, also known as animal magnetism or mesmerization, is a historical term for a healing practice developed by Franz Anton Mesmer, an Austrian physician, in the late 18th century. It was based on the belief that a universal fluid called “animal magnetism” or “magnetic fluid” existed within living beings and could be manipulated to promote healing and well-being. Though mesmerism has largely been discredited as a scientific practice, it played a crucial role in the development of hypnosis and modern psychology.

Franz Anton Mesmer:

Born in 1734, Mesmer was a charismatic physician who claimed to have discovered a force that could influence human health. He studied medicine in Vienna and initially practiced traditional medicine but later developed his unique theory and healing method, which became known as mesmerism.

Animal Magnetism: 

Mesmer believed that there was an invisible magnetic fluid that existed in the human body and all living beings. He posited that imbalances or blockages in this fluid caused illness, and by manipulating it, he could induce healing.

Mesmeric Techniques:

Mesmer developed several techniques to influence the flow of animal magnetism. His primary method involved making sweeping hand gestures, known as “passes,” over the patient’s body to realign the magnetic fluid. He believed that he could transfer the fluid to his patients, and this process would restore their health.

Types :

There are two types of Mesmerism :-

1) Positive Mesmerism :-

The positive mesmerism consists of transmitting vitality ( more or less ) into the patient . This can be done by the contact of a well intentioned person powerfully exerting his will . This is done by making a single pass ( not too strong ) with the palms of the hands from the top of the head downwards over the body to the tips of the toes. This brings about harmonious distribution of the vital force through the organism magnetised and patient recovers and goes to sleep.

2) Negative Mesmerism :-

Negative mesmerism helps in the discharge of accumulated excess of the vital force in a particular part. It is , therefore , soothing and ventilating in nature. It is performed by making a very rapid motion of the extended flat hand from the top of the head to the of the toes. The hand should be placed parallel to and about inch above from the body of the patient .

Worked By : Sunitha Asir (Final BHMS)