About Naturopathic Medicine

Naturopathic medicine is a discipline of primary healthcare which blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural medicine. It emphasizes the use of natural modalities—such as nutrition, lifestyle counselling, and botanical medicine—to promote wellness and treat illness. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) work according to a set of basic principles—the Principles of Naturopathic Medicine—that include things such as stimulating the healing power of the body and addressing the underlying causes of disease, rather than focusing on alleviating the symptoms only. The practice of naturopathic medicine requires understanding illnesses within the context of and as a result of the events and circumstances which may have occurred or influenced the causation of such disease in a person’s life.

What is the Naturopathic Approach to Healthcare?

The naturopathic approach to healthcare also emphasizes patient education and self-care. Naturopathic medicine can be used in conjunction with conventional medical therapies to support the body’s healing processes—an approach referred to as “Integrative Medicine.” In some clinics and hospitals, NDs work in collaboration with Allopathic Medical Doctors (MDs), Doctors of Chiropractics (DCs), Osteopathic Doctors (DOs), Acupuncturists, and other Healthcare Practitioners. NDs can even refer patients to hospital emergencies and other specialty clinics or professionals when necessary.

While NDs primarily use nature-based and non-invasive healing methods, they are also extensively trained to perform minor surgeries, such as removing cysts or suturing superficial wounds, as well as to utilize prescription drugs under certain circumstances.