Naturopathic medicine blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine. The philosophy is to stimulate the healing power of the body and treat the underlying cause of disease. Symptoms of disease are seen as warning signals of improper functioning of the body, and unfavourable lifestyle habits. Naturopathic Medicine emphasizes disease as a process rather than as an entity. Naturopathic doctors are medically trained but Naturally focused.ModalitiesNaturopathic treatments are chosen based on the individual patient – their physiological, structural, psychological, social, spiritual, environment and lifestyle factors.
Modalities include:
- Diet and lifestyle changes,
- Botanical medicine,
- Clinical nutrition,
- Hydrotherapy,
- Homeopathy,
- Naturopathic manipulation and
- Traditional Chinese medicine
Principles of Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic doctors are guided by six core principles:
1. First Do No Harm
Naturopathic doctors will choose remedies and therapies that are safe and effective, to increase your health and decrease harmful side effects.
2. The Healing Power of Nature
Naturopathic doctors work to restore and support the powerful and inherent healing ability of your body, mind and spirit and to prevent further disease from occurring. We aim to identify and remove obstacles to recovery, thereby promoting healing.
3. Identify and Treat the Cause
The primary goal is to treat the underlying cause rather than simply managing or suppressing the symptoms. These causes may be dietary, lifestyle, life-related or environmental in nature. Symptoms are viewed as expressions of the body's natural attempt to heal.
4. Treat the Whole Person
Since each person is unique and disease affects the entire person, Naturopathic doctors take into account not only your physical symptoms, but also mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, social, spiritual and other factors. As a result, many of these aspects will be addressed in your visits.
5. Doctor as Teacher
By helping you understand the factors that affect your health, Naturopathic doctors will help you bring balance to your life and assist you in becoming more capable of maintaining your own health.
6. Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Naturopathic doctors emphasize healthy daily habits, promote proper nutrition, exercise, a balanced lifestyle, positive emotions, thoughts and actions. Our goal is health promotion and disease prevention.