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Naturopathy & Naturopathic Medicine

Naturopathy is recognized as one of the original systems of medicine offering safe, effective patient-centered care that is a vital part of healthcare in the twenty-first century.

Naturopathic medicine focuses on holistic, proactive prevention and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment. By using protocols that minimize the risk of harm, naturopathic physicians help facilitate the body’s inherent ability to restore and maintain optimal health. It is the naturopathic physician’s role to identify and remove barriers to good health by helping to create a healing internal and external environment.

Naturopathic doctors treat all medical conditions and can provide both individual and family health care. Among the most common ailments they treat are allergies, chronic pain, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, obesity, respiratory conditions, heart disease, fertility problems, menopause, adrenal fatigue, cancer, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. NDs can perform minor surgeries, such as removing cysts or stitching up superficial wounds. However, they do not practice major surgery. NDs are trained to utilize prescription drugs, although the emphasis of naturopathic medicine is the use of natural healing agents.

What is a Licensed Naturopathic Doctor?

  • A primary care physician and licensed healthcare practitioner who is trained to diagnose, prevent and treat acute & chronic illness.

  • Over 4,100 hours of instruction.

  • Graduates from a four-year, in-residence doctoral degree program accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, which is recognized by the US Department of Education.

  • 1,200 hours of supervised hands-on clinical training.

  • Can work in private or group practice, integrative oncology care, hospitals, medical schools, and some governmental organizations.

Find local Naturopathy & Naturopathic Medicine practitioners in our Holistic Business Directory.

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Naturopathy

The 6 Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

First: Do No Harm—Utilize the most natural, least invasive, and least toxic therapies.

The Healing Power of Nature—Trust in the body’s inherent wisdom to heal itself.

Treat the Whole Person– View the body as an integrated whole in all its physical and spiritual dimensions.

Identify and Treat the Causes—Look beyond the symptoms to the underlying cause.

Doctor as Teacher—Educate patients in the steps to achieving and maintaining health.

Prevention—Focus on overall health, wellness, and disease prevention.