What Is Naturopathic Medicine?
A naturopathic doctor (ND) is a primary care general practitioner trained as an expert in natural medicine. Naturopaths concentrate on whole-patient wellness and tailor treatment to emphasize prevention and self-care. A naturopathic practitioner strives to find the underlying cause of the patient's condition rather than focusing solely on symptomatic treatment. The following therapies are used by naturopathic doctors:
Clinical Nutrition
Naturopathic doctors use food, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and other nutritional supplements to stimulate a healing response in the body and to correct deficiencies caused by dietary or absorption limitations.
Botanical Medicine
Medicinal plants and plant extracts from all over the world are used according to traditional and modern scientific principles. Naturopathic doctors are the only licensed health care providers fully trained in the use of botanical medicine.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a powerful system of medicine based on the "law of similars" (that is, like cures like). Specially prepared dilutions of substances are carefully matched with the patient to stimulate the body's innate healing forces.
Physical Medicine
Naturopathic doctors use the application of hydrotherapy, exercise therapy, massage, and manipulation of the bones, joints, muscles, and soft tissues.
Lifestyle Counseling
Naturopaths address all aspects of a person's life, including attitude, diet, exercise, habits, and coping with and avoiding occupational stress and environmental hazards. An ND is trained to support patients in releasing emotional issues that limit optimal health.
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