Naturopathic medicine is a distinct system of primary health care that emphasizes prevention and the self-healing process through the use of natural therapies. It blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine, treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
The Six Principles of Naturopathy
The practice of naturopathic medicine is guided by six foundational principles:
The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae)
Trust in the body's inherent wisdom to heal itself.
Identify and Treat the Causes (Tolle Causam)
Look beyond the symptoms to the underlying causes of illness.
First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere)
Utilize the most natural, least invasive, and least toxic therapies.
Doctor as Teacher (Docere)
Educate patients in the steps to achieving and maintaining health.
Treat the Whole Person
View the body as an integrated whole in all its physical and spiritual dimensions.
Prevention
Focus on overall health, wellness, and disease prevention.
The Naturopathic Consultation
Your first visit with a naturopathic doctor (ND) is typically a comprehensive 1-2 hour session to gather a detailed history.
- Detailed Health History: The ND will ask about your diet, lifestyle, stress, and environmental exposures, as well as your physical, mental, and emotional health.
- Physical Examination: A standard physical exam may be conducted.
- Lab Testing: NDs may use conventional lab tests as well as specialized tests to assess for nutritional deficiencies, food allergies, or hormone imbalances.
- Individualized Treatment Plan: Based on your unique health profile, the ND will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include a combination of diet, exercise, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies.
Common Naturopathic Therapies
Naturopathic doctors are trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities.
Clinical Nutrition
Using diet as a therapeutic tool and prescribing nutritional supplements.
Botanical Medicine
Using plant-based medicines for their healing effects and nutritional value.
Homeopathy
Using highly diluted natural substances to stimulate the body's self-healing abilities.
Lifestyle Counseling
Helping patients make choices to improve their health and well-being, including addressing stress, sleep, and exercise.