What is a Naturopathic Doctor?

Naturopathic doctors are trained specialists in a separate and distinct healing art which uses non-invasive natural modalities.

Naturopathic doctors tailor the healing modality to the needs of the individual with methods which are effective for both chronic and acute problems.

In practice, naturopathic doctors perform lifestyle analysis, laboratory testing, nutritional and dietary assessments, and other evaluative procedures. They are trained to use a wide variety of natural methods which inolve the individual in the healing process. Naturopathy is based upon a belief in the body's innate God-given natural ability to heal itself when gien an appropriate internal and external healing environment.

The Naturopathic Philosophy Advocates a Number of Principles:

Naturopathy promotes health through education and non-invasive natural agents.

1. Do No Harm

Primum non nocere is taken from the Hippocratic Oath. Certainly anybody who is sick does not need any therapy or treatment which can harm him/her.

2. Recognize the Healing Power of Nature

Vis medicatrix naturae. The human body is created with the capacity to heal itself and to maintain homeostasis. There is a healing power in nature and this principal is the basis for all of naturopathy.

3. Identify the Cause

For naturopaths, the correction of the cause is the most plausible way of eliminating the symptoms and restoring health to the person.

4. Involve the Total Person

Naturopathic doctors are aware that a person can have a physical, spiritual or emotional illness. The chosen therapy is determined by what kind of problem the person is experiencing. You can not be well or healthy if you have a spiritual or mental problem even if you appear perfectly fit.

5. Teach Rather Than Treat

Naturopathic philosophy places the responsibility for wellness with the individual. Man is the steward of his body and the doctor is the teacher or advisor to the individual on how to maintain health.

6. Identify the Source

Man is fearfully and wonderfully made. Seldom does the body have isolated mono-factoral conditions but rather experiences "dis-ease" as a consequence of a number of health debilitating events.

7. Prevent Disease

Naturopaths are prepared to advise clients on simple disease prevention principles which are designed to produce health and avoid the destructive consequences which occur as the result of violating those principles.