ABOUT NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
Naturopathic Medicine is a distinct approach to health that recognizes the uniqueness of each individual and uses natural means to restore and optimize health. Naturopathic Physicians assess the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of a person’s health. Naturopaths strive to determine the underlying cause of disease with the goal of removing obstacles and allowing the body to heal. Disease prevention and patient education are central to this practice of medicine. The Principles of Naturopathic Medicine and the therapies used to promote healing best describe the philosophy of Naturopathic Medicine.
PRINCIPLES OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
The Healing Power of Nature Vis Medicatrix Naturae
Naturopathic Medicine recognizes the body’s inherent ability to establish, maintain and restore health. The Naturopathic Doctor’s role is to support and facilitate the natural healing process by identifying and removing obstacles to heath and recovery.
First Do No Harm Primum Non Nocere
Naturopathic Medicine follows three principles to initiate the healing process: 1) Use methods and therapies which minimize the risk of harmful side effects and apply the least force possible
2) When possible, avoid suppressing symptoms which can interfere with the healing process 3) Acknowledge and respect the individual's healing process, allowing the body to heal naturally.
Identify and Treat the Cause Tolle Causam
Naturopathic Doctors seek to identify and remove the underlying cause of an illness, rather than suppressing the symptoms. The Naturopathic Doctor must assess the cause on all levels, including mental, emotional, and physical. Symptoms can be an expression of the body’s attempt to heal, but are not the cause of disease.
Doctor as Teacher Docere
A major role of the Naturopathic Doctor is to create a healthy, sensitive and respectful relationship with the patient. Through education and encouragement, the individual learns to take responsibility for his or her own health. It is the patient, not the doctor, who ultimately creates and accomplishes healing.
Treat the Whole Person
Health and disease are a result of an imbalance within the physical, mental, and emotional state as well the genetic, environmental and social factors that influence our lives. The Naturopathic Doctor considers all aspects of the individual in order to reach a balanced and healthy state of living.
Prevention
The ultimate goal of Naturopathic Medicine is prevention. The Naturopathic Doctor assesses the individual’s risk factors, hereditary susceptibility, and lifestyle habits to determine appropriate interventions. The emphasis is on building health rather than on fighting disease.
Wellness
Wellness is the state of complete balance and optimal health. Positive thought, emotion and action create the foundation to achieve and maintain wellness.
