Naturopathic medicine is a distinct system of primary health care that emphasises prevention and self-healing through natural therapies, combining traditional and modern health care practices.
Naturopathic diagnosis focuses on identifying the underlying causes of disease. Naturopathic interventions are supported by research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from diverse disciplines, including naturopathic medicine as well as conventional medicine.
Principles
The basic principles of naturopathic medical practice are found in the following:
The Healing Power of Nature
(Vis Medicatrix Naturae)
Naturopathic medicine recognizes the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. Naturopathic physicians identify and remove obstacles to recovery, to facilitate this natural healing ability in patients.
Doctor as Teacher
(Docere)
Health education is an integral part of Naturopathic approach. Physicians educate the patient and encourage self-responsibility for health. They also acknowledge the therapeutic value inherent in the doctor-patient relationship.
First Do No Harm
(Primum Non Nocere)
Naturopathic medicine follows three principles to avoid harming the patient:
- Use methods and medicinal substances which minimise the risk of harmful side effects
- When possible, avoid the harmful suppression of symptom
- Acknowledge and respect the individual’s healing process.
Wellness
Wellness is a state of being healthy, characterised by positive emotion, thought and action. Wellness is inherent in everyone, regardless of disease(s).Wellness follows the establishment and maintenance of optimum health and balance. If wellness is recognized and experienced by an individual, it will more quickly heal a given disease than direct treatment of the disease alone.
Treat the Whole Person
Holistic approach is another important aspect of Naturopathy. Naturopaths treat each individual by taking into account physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental and social factors. Since total health also includes spiritual health, naturopathic physicians encourage individuals to pursue their personal spiritual path.
Prevention
Naturopathic physicians emphasise disease prevention, assessment of risk factors and hereditary susceptibility to disease and making appropriate interventions to prevent illness. Naturopathic medicine strives to create a healthy world in which humanity may thrive.
Identify and Treat the Causes
(Tolle Causam)
The Naturopathic physician seeks to identify and remove the root causes of illness, rather than eliminate or merely suppress symptoms.