# Experiments in Earth and Water Treatment explained — The Story of My Experiments with Truth

> Chapter companion for The Story of My Experiments with Truth by Mahatma Gandhi.

## What happens

Gandhi describes his growing aversion to medicines and his experiments with natural remedies, including earth and water treatments, to cure his ailments. He advocates for self-discipline in diet and health, warning readers to approach such books with discernment.

## Themes in this chapter

### Self-Discipline and Simplicity

Gandhi's experiments with diet and natural treatments reflect his commitment to simplicity and self-control.

### Truth and Self-Experimentation

Gandhi's approach to health through personal experimentation and his caution about accepting books uncritically.

## Character check-ins

### Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

Narrates his personal health struggles and experiments with earth and water treatments.

### Dr. P. J. Mehta

Treated Gandhi for debility and rheumatic inflammation in Durban.

## Key lines

> He who runs to the doctor, vaidya or hakim for every little ailment, and swallows all kinds of vegetable and mineral drugs, not only curtails his life, but, by becoming the slave of his body instead of remaining its master, loses self-control, and ceases to be a man.

Gandhi argues that relying on doctors and drugs for minor ailments reduces one's lifespan and self-mastery, turning a person into a slave of their body.

_Gandhi's critique of over-reliance on medicine and his advocacy for self-discipline._

> Let those, therefore, who read such books as these do so with discernment, and take advice of some experienced man before trying any of the experiments set forth, or let them read the books with patience and digest them thoroughly before acting upon them.

Gandhi advises readers to approach health books critically, seek guidance from experienced individuals, and thoroughly understand the content before attempting any experiments.

_Gandhi's warning about the limitations of written advice and the importance of discernment._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-vii-experiments-in-earth-and-water-treatment
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters