Naturopathic Medicine

What is Naturopathic Medicine?

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Naturopathic medicine emphasizes prevention and treatment through the primary use of natural substances such as botanical herbs, nutrition and supplements. The goal is to promote the body’s self-healing process as naturally and minimally invasive as possible.

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There are six principles at the foundation of Naturopathic medicine:

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1. First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere)

2. The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae)

3. Identify and Treat the Causes (Tolle Causam)

4. Treat the Whole Person (Tolle Totum)

5. Doctor as Teacher (Docere)

6. Prevention Beats Cure (Praeveniere)

 

Naturopathic medicine practices the following diagnostic and therapeutic tools below:

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• Clinical and laboratory diagnostic testing

• Nutritional medicine

• Botanical medicine

• Naturopathic physical medicine (including Naturopathic manipulative therapy)

• Public health measures

• Hygiene

• Counseling

• Minor surgery*

• Homeopathy

• Hydrotherapy

• Acupuncture*

• Prescription medication*

• Intravenous and injection therapy*

• Naturopathic obstetrics (natural childbirth)*

 

*This is not currently available for all licensed states.

 

Your First Visit

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Naturopathic doctors are often known as “the doctors who listen”. This just means a Naturopathic doctor will take time with you. During your first appointment, your personal and family health history and lifestyle factors (ie. diet, exercise, stress levels, tobacco and alcohol use, etc.) will be discussed in addition to your reason for the visit. An examination may be performed and diagnostic tests may be ordered. A customized health management strategy is formed and a referral to other health-care practitioners will be made if necessary. The first visit may last up to 1.5 hours and follow-up visits range from 30 to 60 minutes.