Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic Medicine is a unique profession of primary health care that emphasizes the use of prevention and promotion of optimal health through the use of natural therapeutics.
Naturopathic medicine encourages the self-healing process, the vis medicatrix naturae, and blends centuries-old knowledge of natural therapies with current advances in the understanding of health and human systems. Its scope of practice includes all aspects of family and primary care, from pediatrics to geriatrics, and all natural medicine modalities.
In the United States, the naturopathic medical professions infrastructure includes accredited educational institutions, professional licensing, national standards of practice, peer review, and a commitment to state-of-the-art scientific research.
The History of Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic medicine as a distinct health care profession is almost 100 years old and has its origins in the philosophy of Hippocrates and the healing wisdom of many cultures. Benedict Lust brought Naturopathic Medicine to New YorkState in 1896. In the early 20th century, practitioners of a variety of medical disciplines joined together to form the first Naturopathic medical societies. Naturopathic medical conventions attracted more than 10,000 practitioners; there were more than 20 Naturopathic colleges, and Naturopathic physicians were licensed in most states.
Naturopathic medicine experienced a decline in the 1940s and 50s with increased popularity of pharmaceutical drugs and technological medicine, and a widespread belief that these therapies could eliminate all disease. Over the past twenty years, a health-conscious public has sought out alternatives to conventional medicine and, because of this; Naturopathic medicine has experienced resurgence.
Naturopathy continues to grow and evolve as a body of knowledge. Naturopathic medicine, as an organized profession, is committed to ongoing research and development of its science. It incorporates many elements of scientific modern medicine.
The Principles of Naturopathic Medicine
The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae)Naturopathic medicine recognizes in the body an inherent ability, which is ordered and intelligent. Naturopathic Doctors identify and remove obstacles to recovery and facilitate and augment this healing ability.
Identify and Treat the Causes (Tolle Causam)The Naturopathic Doctors seeks to identify and remove the underlying causes of illness, rather than eliminate or suppress its symptoms.
First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere)Naturopathic medicine follows three principles to avoid harming the patient: 1) utilize methods and medicinal substances which minimize the risk of harmful side effects; 2) avoid, when possible, the harmful suppression of symptoms; 3) acknowledge and respect the individual's healing process, using the least force necessary to diagnose and treat illness.
Doctor as Teacher (Docere)Naturopathic Doctors educate the patient and encourage self-responsibility for health. They also acknowledge the therapeutic value inherent in the doctor-patient relationship.
Treat the Whole PersonNaturopathic Doctors treat each patient individually, taking into account his or her physical, mental, emotional state as well as genetic, environmental and social factors. Since total health includes spiritual health, Naturopathic Doctors encourage individuals to pursue their own spiritual paths.
PreventionNaturopathic Doctors emphasize disease prevention, assessment of risk factors and hereditary susceptibility to disease and make appropriate interventions to prevent illness. Naturopathic medicine seeks to improve conditions through preventative measures so that we all may live healthier.
WellnessWellness follows the establishment and maintenance of optimum health and balance. It is a state of being healthy and is characterized by positive emotion, thought and action. Wellness is inherent in everyone, no matter what the disease(s) he or she may have. If this fact is recognized and experienced by an individual, he or she will heal quicker than if the disease were only treated.
Natural Therapies used in Treatment
Clinical NutritionNutrition and the therapeutic use of foods are a cornerstone of Naturopathic medicine. The naturopathic approach to diet and nutrition has been validated in many scientifically based professional journals on nutrition and dietary sciences. Many medical conditions can be treated as effectively with foods and nutritional supplements as with other means, with fewer complications and side effects. While most medical doctors receive fewer than 20 classroom hours in clinical nutrition, Naturopathic Physicians receive more than 140 hours.
Homeopathic medicineThis powerful system of medicine is more than 200 years old and is widely accepted in many countries. Homeopathic medicines, when properly prescribed, affect the bodys vital force and strengthen its innate ability to heal. Homeopathic remedies function on both the physical and emotional levels, with few side effects. Some conditions that do not respond well to conventional medicine respond effectively to homeopathy.
Botanical MedicineMany plant substances are highly effective in the right dosage and when used correctly with other herbs and treatments. Herbs can be prepared in many forms teas, tinctures, capsules. Naturopathic doctors are trained in both the art and science of botanical medicine.
Physical MedicinePhysical medicine offers treatment for musculoskeletal concerns. Treatments can include soft tissue work (including therapeutic massage), spinal adjustments, physiotherapy using heat and cold, gentle electrical impulses, ultrasound, diathermy, hydrotherapy and exercise therapy.
CounselingMental attitudes and emotional states are important elements in healing and disease. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in various techniques that include short-term situational counseling, couples counseling and mind-body techniques.
Is Naturopathic Medicine effective? Is Naturopathic Medicine research-based?
Naturopathic diagnosis and therapeutics are supported by scientific research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, pharmacognosy, homeopathy, psychology and spirituality.
Information technology and new concepts in clinical outcomes assessment are particularly well-suited to evaluating the effectiveness of naturopathic treatment protocols and are being used in research, both at naturopathic medical schools and in the offices of practicing physicians. Clinical research into natural therapies has become an increasingly important focus for naturopathic doctors.
The Naturopathic Doctors seeks to identify and remove the underlying causes of illness, rather than eliminate or suppress its symptoms.
First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere)Naturopathic medicine follows three principles to avoid harming the patient: 1) utilize methods and medicinal substances which minimize the risk of harmful side effects; 2) avoid, when possible, the harmful suppression of symptoms; 3) acknowledge and respect the individual's healing process, using the least force necessary to diagnose and treat illness.
Doctor as Teacher (Docere)Naturopathic Doctors educate the patient and encourage self-responsibility for health. They also acknowledge the therapeutic value inherent in the doctor-patient relationship.
Treat the Whole PersonNaturopathic Doctors treat each patient individually, taking into account his or her physical, mental, emotional state as well as genetic, environmental and social factors. Since total health includes spiritual health, Naturopathic Doctors encourage individuals to pursue their own spiritual paths.
PreventionNaturopathic Doctors emphasize disease prevention, assessment of risk factors and hereditary susceptibility to disease and make appropriate interventions to prevent illness. Naturopathic medicine seeks to improve conditions through preventative measures so that we all may live healthier.
WellnessWellness follows the establishment and maintenance of optimum health and balance. It is a state of being healthy and is characterized by positive emotion, thought and action. Wellness is inherent in everyone, no matter what the disease(s) he or she may have. If this fact is recognized and experienced by an individual, he or she will heal quicker than if the disease were only treated.
Natural Therapies used in Treatment
Clinical NutritionNutrition and the therapeutic use of foods are a cornerstone of Naturopathic medicine. The naturopathic approach to diet and nutrition has been validated in many scientifically based professional journals on nutrition and dietary sciences. Many medical conditions can be treated as effectively with foods and nutritional supplements as with other means, with fewer complications and side effects. While most medical doctors receive fewer than 20 classroom hours in clinical nutrition, Naturopathic Physicians receive more than 140 hours.
Homeopathic medicineThis powerful system of medicine is more than 200 years old and is widely accepted in many countries. Homeopathic medicines, when properly prescribed, affect the bodys vital force and strengthen its innate ability to heal. Homeopathic remedies function on both the physical and emotional levels, with few side effects. Some conditions that do not respond well to conventional medicine respond effectively to homeopathy.
Botanical MedicineMany plant substances are highly effective in the right dosage and when used correctly with other herbs and treatments. Herbs can be prepared in many forms teas, tinctures, capsules. Naturopathic doctors are trained in both the art and science of botanical medicine.
Physical MedicinePhysical medicine offers treatment for musculoskeletal concerns. Treatments can include soft tissue work (including therapeutic massage), spinal adjustments, physiotherapy using heat and cold, gentle electrical impulses, ultrasound, diathermy, hydrotherapy and exercise therapy.
CounselingMental attitudes and emotional states are important elements in healing and disease. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in various techniques that include short-term situational counseling, couples counseling and mind-body techniques.
Is Naturopathic Medicine effective? Is Naturopathic Medicine research-based?
Naturopathic diagnosis and therapeutics are supported by scientific research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, pharmacognosy, homeopathy, psychology and spirituality.
Information technology and new concepts in clinical outcomes assessment are particularly well-suited to evaluating the effectiveness of naturopathic treatment protocols and are being used in research, both at naturopathic medical schools and in the offices of practicing physicians. Clinical research into natural therapies has become an increasingly important focus for naturopathic doctors.
Naturopathic Doctors educate the patient and encourage self-responsibility for health. They also acknowledge the therapeutic value inherent in the doctor-patient relationship.
Treat the Whole PersonNaturopathic Doctors treat each patient individually, taking into account his or her physical, mental, emotional state as well as genetic, environmental and social factors. Since total health includes spiritual health, Naturopathic Doctors encourage individuals to pursue their own spiritual paths.
PreventionNaturopathic Doctors emphasize disease prevention, assessment of risk factors and hereditary susceptibility to disease and make appropriate interventions to prevent illness. Naturopathic medicine seeks to improve conditions through preventative measures so that we all may live healthier.
WellnessWellness follows the establishment and maintenance of optimum health and balance. It is a state of being healthy and is characterized by positive emotion, thought and action. Wellness is inherent in everyone, no matter what the disease(s) he or she may have. If this fact is recognized and experienced by an individual, he or she will heal quicker than if the disease were only treated.
Natural Therapies used in Treatment
Clinical NutritionNutrition and the therapeutic use of foods are a cornerstone of Naturopathic medicine. The naturopathic approach to diet and nutrition has been validated in many scientifically based professional journals on nutrition and dietary sciences. Many medical conditions can be treated as effectively with foods and nutritional supplements as with other means, with fewer complications and side effects. While most medical doctors receive fewer than 20 classroom hours in clinical nutrition, Naturopathic Physicians receive more than 140 hours.
Homeopathic medicineThis powerful system of medicine is more than 200 years old and is widely accepted in many countries. Homeopathic medicines, when properly prescribed, affect the bodys vital force and strengthen its innate ability to heal. Homeopathic remedies function on both the physical and emotional levels, with few side effects. Some conditions that do not respond well to conventional medicine respond effectively to homeopathy.
Botanical MedicineMany plant substances are highly effective in the right dosage and when used correctly with other herbs and treatments. Herbs can be prepared in many forms teas, tinctures, capsules. Naturopathic doctors are trained in both the art and science of botanical medicine.
Physical MedicinePhysical medicine offers treatment for musculoskeletal concerns. Treatments can include soft tissue work (including therapeutic massage), spinal adjustments, physiotherapy using heat and cold, gentle electrical impulses, ultrasound, diathermy, hydrotherapy and exercise therapy.
CounselingMental attitudes and emotional states are important elements in healing and disease. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in various techniques that include short-term situational counseling, couples counseling and mind-body techniques.
Is Naturopathic Medicine effective? Is Naturopathic Medicine research-based?
Naturopathic diagnosis and therapeutics are supported by scientific research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, pharmacognosy, homeopathy, psychology and spirituality.
Information technology and new concepts in clinical outcomes assessment are particularly well-suited to evaluating the effectiveness of naturopathic treatment protocols and are being used in research, both at naturopathic medical schools and in the offices of practicing physicians. Clinical research into natural therapies has become an increasingly important focus for naturopathic doctors.
Naturopathic Doctors emphasize disease prevention, assessment of risk factors and hereditary susceptibility to disease and make appropriate interventions to prevent illness. Naturopathic medicine seeks to improve conditions through preventative measures so that we all may live healthier.
WellnessWellness follows the establishment and maintenance of optimum health and balance. It is a state of being healthy and is characterized by positive emotion, thought and action. Wellness is inherent in everyone, no matter what the disease(s) he or she may have. If this fact is recognized and experienced by an individual, he or she will heal quicker than if the disease were only treated.
Natural Therapies used in Treatment
Clinical NutritionNutrition and the therapeutic use of foods are a cornerstone of Naturopathic medicine. The naturopathic approach to diet and nutrition has been validated in many scientifically based professional journals on nutrition and dietary sciences. Many medical conditions can be treated as effectively with foods and nutritional supplements as with other means, with fewer complications and side effects. While most medical doctors receive fewer than 20 classroom hours in clinical nutrition, Naturopathic Physicians receive more than 140 hours.
Homeopathic medicineThis powerful system of medicine is more than 200 years old and is widely accepted in many countries. Homeopathic medicines, when properly prescribed, affect the bodys vital force and strengthen its innate ability to heal. Homeopathic remedies function on both the physical and emotional levels, with few side effects. Some conditions that do not respond well to conventional medicine respond effectively to homeopathy.
Botanical MedicineMany plant substances are highly effective in the right dosage and when used correctly with other herbs and treatments. Herbs can be prepared in many forms teas, tinctures, capsules. Naturopathic doctors are trained in both the art and science of botanical medicine.
Physical MedicinePhysical medicine offers treatment for musculoskeletal concerns. Treatments can include soft tissue work (including therapeutic massage), spinal adjustments, physiotherapy using heat and cold, gentle electrical impulses, ultrasound, diathermy, hydrotherapy and exercise therapy.
CounselingMental attitudes and emotional states are important elements in healing and disease. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in various techniques that include short-term situational counseling, couples counseling and mind-body techniques.
Is Naturopathic Medicine effective? Is Naturopathic Medicine research-based?
Naturopathic diagnosis and therapeutics are supported by scientific research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, pharmacognosy, homeopathy, psychology and spirituality.
Information technology and new concepts in clinical outcomes assessment are particularly well-suited to evaluating the effectiveness of naturopathic treatment protocols and are being used in research, both at naturopathic medical schools and in the offices of practicing physicians. Clinical research into natural therapies has become an increasingly important focus for naturopathic doctors.
Nutrition and the therapeutic use of foods are a cornerstone of Naturopathic medicine. The naturopathic approach to diet and nutrition has been validated in many scientifically based professional journals on nutrition and dietary sciences. Many medical conditions can be treated as effectively with foods and nutritional supplements as with other means, with fewer complications and side effects. While most medical doctors receive fewer than 20 classroom hours in clinical nutrition, Naturopathic Physicians receive more than 140 hours.
Homeopathic medicineThis powerful system of medicine is more than 200 years old and is widely accepted in many countries. Homeopathic medicines, when properly prescribed, affect the bodys vital force and strengthen its innate ability to heal. Homeopathic remedies function on both the physical and emotional levels, with few side effects. Some conditions that do not respond well to conventional medicine respond effectively to homeopathy.
Botanical MedicineMany plant substances are highly effective in the right dosage and when used correctly with other herbs and treatments. Herbs can be prepared in many forms teas, tinctures, capsules. Naturopathic doctors are trained in both the art and science of botanical medicine.
Physical MedicinePhysical medicine offers treatment for musculoskeletal concerns. Treatments can include soft tissue work (including therapeutic massage), spinal adjustments, physiotherapy using heat and cold, gentle electrical impulses, ultrasound, diathermy, hydrotherapy and exercise therapy.
CounselingMental attitudes and emotional states are important elements in healing and disease. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in various techniques that include short-term situational counseling, couples counseling and mind-body techniques.
Is Naturopathic Medicine effective? Is Naturopathic Medicine research-based?
Naturopathic diagnosis and therapeutics are supported by scientific research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, pharmacognosy, homeopathy, psychology and spirituality.
Information technology and new concepts in clinical outcomes assessment are particularly well-suited to evaluating the effectiveness of naturopathic treatment protocols and are being used in research, both at naturopathic medical schools and in the offices of practicing physicians. Clinical research into natural therapies has become an increasingly important focus for naturopathic doctors.
Many plant substances are highly effective in the right dosage and when used correctly with other herbs and treatments. Herbs can be prepared in many forms teas, tinctures, capsules. Naturopathic doctors are trained in both the art and science of botanical medicine.
Physical MedicinePhysical medicine offers treatment for musculoskeletal concerns. Treatments can include soft tissue work (including therapeutic massage), spinal adjustments, physiotherapy using heat and cold, gentle electrical impulses, ultrasound, diathermy, hydrotherapy and exercise therapy.
CounselingMental attitudes and emotional states are important elements in healing and disease. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in various techniques that include short-term situational counseling, couples counseling and mind-body techniques.
Is Naturopathic Medicine effective? Is Naturopathic Medicine research-based?
Naturopathic diagnosis and therapeutics are supported by scientific research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, pharmacognosy, homeopathy, psychology and spirituality.
Information technology and new concepts in clinical outcomes assessment are particularly well-suited to evaluating the effectiveness of naturopathic treatment protocols and are being used in research, both at naturopathic medical schools and in the offices of practicing physicians. Clinical research into natural therapies has become an increasingly important focus for naturopathic doctors.
Mental attitudes and emotional states are important elements in healing and disease. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in various techniques that include short-term situational counseling, couples counseling and mind-body techniques.
Is Naturopathic Medicine effective? Is Naturopathic Medicine research-based?
Naturopathic diagnosis and therapeutics are supported by scientific research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, pharmacognosy, homeopathy, psychology and spirituality.
Information technology and new concepts in clinical outcomes assessment are particularly well-suited to evaluating the effectiveness of naturopathic treatment protocols and are being used in research, both at naturopathic medical schools and in the offices of practicing physicians. Clinical research into natural therapies has become an increasingly important focus for naturopathic doctors.
*Adopted from the NYANP website