Naturopathy

Not Just Treating Symptoms, Treating People

Naturopathic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that uses a combination of one or more different disciplines (for example herbal medicine, nutrition, functional medicine or homoeopathic medicine) and promotes a healthy lifestyle for optimal health and wellbeing.

Modern naturopathic medicine is becoming increasingly evidence based, thus combining a scientific approach with traditional healing principles.

The Six Principles of Naturopathic Medicine Naturopathic Principles

First Do No Harm

Core to all medical practice is the desire to help the human form and condition. NDs typically approach care by utilizing the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies. NDs will refer when the patient’s presentation is outside their scope or level of skill.

The Healing Power of Nature

NDs recognize the value of our natural world in assisting the healing process. Not only do NDs utilize substances that originate in nature, but they also incorporate a healthy natural environment as foundational to human health. Naturopathic doctors recognize and harness the body’s inherent wisdom to heal itself in order to guide patients to wellness and total health.

Identify and Treat the Causes

There is a time and place for symptom suppression, however most naturopathic patients will benefit from identifying the underlying causes of illness and removing obstacles to cure.

Doctor as Teacher

Naturopathic doctors elevate patient health literacy. That means that NDs are part of the team helping patients have a better understanding of what it takes to be and stay well. Through education and a trust-based relationship, patients better understand the steps they need to take to achieve and maintain health.

Treat the Whole Person

Naturopathic doctors understand the interconnectedness of our body, our environment and our lifestyle on total health. It is only through this whole-person-based approach that NDs seek to restore balance and health.

Prevention

Naturopathic medicine affirms that it is better to prevent illness and suffering whenever possible. Through their comprehensive practice, NDs combine all six principles in order to identify potential areas of imbalance and teach patients how to get well and stay well.

In learning the principles by which to live a healthy life major illness can be prevented.

Key to this, is the reduction of stress.