What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic medicine is a distinct system of care rooted in the premise that the body has an innate capacity to heal when given the right conditions and support. Rather than managing symptoms in isolation, naturopathic medicine looks deeper, identifying and addressing the root causes of illness across the full spectrum of body, mind, and spirit. It is a system of medicine that treats the whole person, not just the diagnosis.

How Naturopathic Doctors Are Trained:

Naturopathic doctors complete a four-year graduate medical program at an accredited naturopathic medical school, with a rigorous foundation in biomedical sciences, clinical diagnosis, and physical examination. Training also encompasses the full range of naturopathic therapeutics, including botanical medicine, homeopathy, clinical nutrition, physical medicine, and therapeutic counseling. In order to practice, NDs must pass two board exams and maintain ongoing continuing education.

Naturopathic Philosophy:

Naturopathic medicine is unified by six core principles:

1. ‍ ‍First, do no harm. Use the least invasive, most effective therapies available.

2. ‍ ‍The healing power of nature. Support the body’s inherent ability to restore itself.

3. ‍ ‍Identify and treat the cause. Look beyond symptoms.

4. ‍ ‍Treat the whole person. Address physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of health.

5. ‍ ‍Doctor as teacher. Empower patients to understand and take an active role in their own health.

6. ‍ ‍Prevention. Prioritize building health to prevent illness before it takes hold.