There are many standard definitions of naturopathic medicine. First I'd like to give a more practical, general explanation for those of you who have perhaps heard of naturopathic medicine for the first time. Often people call to schedule an appointment, knowing they don't want to have their symptoms medicated without a better understanding of why they are not well. Many times, their medical labs have been "normal." Other times they have been diagnosed with a disease but decide against the medical options their physician may have provided.
I often describe naturopathic medicine as the most comprehensive system of natural medicine because it does take into account all the factors which may have contributed to the condition. This means not just the genetic or infectious processes but looking at the diet, lifestyle, environmental toxins, stress levels and individual constitution. Naturopathic medicine is over one hundred years old and many of the therapies used are thousands of years old. Naturopathic medicine at its inception began to integrate many systems of healing. These included botanical medicine, homeopathic medicine, spinal manipulation similar to chiropractic, nutrition, exercise, fasting, detoxification, hydrotherapy and physical medicine and lifestyle counseling. One's emotional and spiritual well-being were also considered. Modern naturopathic medicine utilizes conventional medical testing as well as tests used by holistic practitioners.
While some conventional medical practitioners may hold the view that naturopathic medicine is not scientifically based, in reality, modern naturopathic doctors may focus more on the underlying physiology or dysfunction of body processes, even at the cellular level and the importance of restoring normal biochemistry in the body. This is done first with state of the art lab testing followed by individualized nutritional/health protocols to restore normal chemistry and body function. When there is an imbalance any system of the body can be affected, such as immunity, digestion, hormone balance, brain chemistry and mood, inflammation and pain, blood sugar balance, heart function and the list goes on. Interestingly, conventional medicine does not focus on what causes the problem on these foundation levels, but seeks to suppress symptoms and often this leads to side effects, more problems and a worsening of the original condition, leading to more medications or even surgery.
Naturopathic doctors recognize the importance of crisis intervention and are trained in pharmacology, diagnostic laboratory and even minor surgery. However, most conditions for which people seek care are chronic, progressive conditions that must be addressed at the cause in order to prevent progression to more critical conditions. This is where naturopathic medicine is unique and unparalleled in excellence.
Conventional medicine often refers to naturopathic medicine and other systems of healthcare outside orthodoxy as complementary and alternative medicine or perhaps integrative medicine if practiced by an M.D. or D.O. In reality, this is a limited view of naturopathic medicine, since when practiced in a licensed state it is a system of primary care medicine and not a complement to the dominant, conventional medical model; but rather an option to conventional medicine, just as conventional medicine could be considered an option to naturopathic medicine. Medical doctors who practice alternative medicine still often rely on the paradigm they were trained in, thus irradicating the disease with drugs and adding some vitamins or nutritional supplements to support one's health a little better. While this is better than not using any nutrients, it does not share the naturopathic model of finding the cause of the disease, not doing harm with the therapeutics and supporting the healing power of the body. In order to do this you must assess the problem on a deeper level, remove the aggravating or limiting factors to nature's healing ability, and use the comprehensive natural therapeutics that only naturopathic doctors are trained to use in naturopathic medical school. There are however some conventionally trained physicians who have studied alternative therapies post-med school and follow more naturopathic principles of healing. However, not ever "holistic doctor" meets this criteria of knowledge and experience.
EDUCATION
Naturopathic doctors are trained at accredited, four-year, post-graduate, residential naturopathic medical schools. Students are educated in all of the conventional medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology, laboratory diagnosis, clinical and physical diagnosis, immunology, gastroenterology, gynecology, etc. In addition to a standard medical curriculum, the naturopathic physician completes training in clinical nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathy, botanical medicine, physical medicine and counseling.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES IN PRACTICE
Naturopathic doctors practice in the context of guiding principles which have been at the heart of naturopathic medicine since its inception. This is not just a philosophy we hang on the wall, but work within the framework of these principles with every person we see. We recognize the healing power of nature and trust in the body's inherent wisdom to restore health. Natural therapies support this process. Fundamental to restoring health is identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the patient's condition, not just the symptoms. We use the most natural, least toxic therapies to treat the whole person. Patients are educated in how they can achieve and maintain health with a focus on prevention and wellness.
NATURAL THERAPIES
Today's naturopathic doctor skillfully integrates the best of time-honored traditional therapies with the most current scientific knowledge. This is particularly true since we address the underlying cause of one's condition at the cellular level, working to restore balance to the body's chemistries and functions. This application is best seen in our use of cutting-edge functional laboratory tests as well as the use of botanical and nutritional research in creating individualized health plans.
Naturopathic doctors use virtually all the modalities of proven natural therapies, including clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, acupuncture, physical medicine, hydrotherapy, and lifestyle counseling.
Clinical Nutrition makes use of laboratory assessment as well as diet analysis to determine deficiencies and excesses, food sensitivities, and contributing factors to one's underlying condition. Dietary modification together with nutritional supplements provides the groundwork for creating health.
Botanical medicine includes the use of western and eastern herbs to support the healing process. Pharmaceutical agents are often used to affect a specific biochemical activity, often prescribed for long term use to manage your condition, and with multiple side effects. Conversely, the goal of botanicals is often to restore function, often leading to being able to discontinue their use. The action is considered balancing and often without side effects when used as directed.
Homeopathy uses natural substances prepared in dilution to work on an energetic level to stimulate one's ability to heal. It can be used for acute, self-limiting conditions, chronic conditions and even to help balance one's emotional state. Homeopathy has been used safely for over 200 years and is considered a powerful, yet gentle therapy.
Acupuncture also works on an energetic level to restore balance. While often used in painful conditions, the World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as a treatment for many other systemic imbalances. The relaxation experienced during an acupuncture treatment is considered unparalleled by many patients and they request maintenance sessions long after their problem is resolved.
Hydrotherapy utilizes the application of hot and cold water therapies to stimulate the immune system and circulation to support healing. Patients are instructed in the use of therapies they can do at home.