Joel Shew (November 13, 1816 – October 6, 1855)[1] was an American physician, hydrotherapist, and natural hygiene advocate.

[2] Shew developed an interest in hydrotherapy and traveled to Gräfenberg to study Vincenz Priessnitz's techniques.

[5] Shew was influenced by Sylvester Graham's dietary principles and promoted natural hygiene practices, including regular bathing, exercise, massage, and abstention from alcohol and tobacco.

[7] In 1850, Shew contributed notes and additions to the American edition of William Lambe's Water and Vegetable Diet.

[1] An autopsy revealed that he had an enlarged liver and internal lesions, possibly due to chemical exposure from his earlier career as a photographer.