Natural-Cure

Summary

Natural Cure is a Pokémon ability introduced in Generation III.

Effect:

• The Pokémon is cured of any major status condition (such as paralysis, burn, sleep, poison, or freeze) when it is switched out for another Pokémon.
• If a Pokémon with Natural Cure acquires the ability temporarily during battle, it will be cured of its status condition upon leaving the battle before losing the temporary ability.
• Does not activate if the Pokémon is knocked out.

In Battle:

• Provides significant utility for Pokémon that rely on switching to gain momentum.
• Particularly effective for healing status conditions without using a move, allowing the Pokémon to preserve its turns for offensive or defensive actions.
• Can serve as a defensive pivot, absorbing status moves like Toxic or Thunder Wave and then switching out to heal.
• Works well with Pokémon that frequently switch out, such as those using Volt Switch or U-turn.

Pokémon with this Ability:

• Starmie (standard ability)
• Celebi (standard ability)
• Chansey and Blissey (Hidden Ability)
• Roserade (standard ability)
• Many other support and defensive Pokémon

Competitive Use:

• Valued in competitive play for its ability to mitigate the effects of status conditions on key team members.
• Often used on teams that emphasize switching and maintaining momentum.
• Commonly paired with Pokémon that can take advantage of a freshly cured status condition, such as those using Rest.
• Effective in prolonging the lifespan of Pokémon that are otherwise vulnerable to status.

Interesting Facts:

• One of the few abilities that provide a passive healing effect for status conditions.
• The ability's in-game description reflects its restorative nature, akin to a natural remedy.
• Has been a part of several iconic competitive strategies, often seen in conjunction with cleric roles in teams.
• Celebi and Starmie are notable for their historical presence in competitive play due to their versatility and access to Natural Cure.
• In the anime, Natural Cure is often depicted with a glowing or healing aura when the Pokémon switches out or is recalled.