About Naturopathic Medicine

What is Naturopathic Medicine?

An integrative system of therapeutics derived from several schools of thought. Historically, only basic modalities of healing were used such as natural foods, light, warmth, massage, fresh air, and regular exercise. Through the years, we have seen the modalities of naturopathic medicine evolve as the field of medicine has evolved. There are many tools in a Naturopathic Physician's medicine bag including vitamins, minerals, homeopathy, herbs, acupuncture, and prescription medications when indicated.

The underlying philosophy of the medicine, that illness is reversible through the natural processes of the body, is its cornerstone. This core philosophy guides the physician when listening to the patient, so that they may formulate an individualized treatment plan together. The Naturopathic physician uses the least invasive, clinically indicated combination of therapies to assess and support the body's ability to heal itself in an effort to promote wellness physically, mentally and spiritually.

Education and Training

Naturopathic doctors practice a unique form of medicine that integrates the training and knowledge of conventional medicine into a treatment model based on the philosophy of naturopathic medicine.

After receiving a bachelor's degree, naturopathic physicians then attend one of the five accredited naturopathic medical schools located in North America. The four-year curriculum includes courses in basic sciences such as Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and Pathology as well as clinical sciences such as Cardiology, Rheumatology and Radiology. Students also take classes in the history of medicine as well as philosophy. It is it's cogent philosophy based on the fact that the body has the power to heal itself, which sets the Naturopathic Medical Model apart from the rest. Two years of clinical training are spent working under established practitioners with their patients incorporating several different therapeutic modalities. These modalities include Homeopathy, Clinical Nutrition, Botanical Medicine, Hydrotherapy and Acupuncture, to name a few. Using these methods, health can be restored from the inside out without the use of drugs or needless surgeries. Naturopathic physicians find that conditions which conventional medicine fails to treat effectively or provide answers for are easily remedied using these other means.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to evaluate nutritional supplements and natural medicines?

Every year billions of dollars are spent on natural medicines. However, results vary due to the quality and purity of the products. Some companies manufacture natural medicines but do not conduct the necessary testing and research to ensure a pure, safe and effective product.* Some supplements of low quality may be ineffective and harmless, but others may be dangerous.

*Tip: Best to shop for supplements where a wide variety of companies' products are offered like your local co-op. Chances are, these supplements are of better quality than those sold at stores that offer only one or two generic brands. At Natural Health Connections, Inc. we hand select the best quality products for your money provided by physician-only based manufacturers. Only use standardized or whole plant herbal products from eligible manufacturers. Keep supplements in a dry place away from light, possibly in dark glass containers with a tight seal.

Look for products that list:

Talk to your naturopathic doctor about supplements you are considering and what to expect from products that you are using.