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.