Naturopathic Medicine
The Art and Science of Natural Healing
Naturopathic medicine is a unique and comprehensive approach to improving health and
treating illness. Focusing on prevention, and using natural substances and treatments,
naturopathic doctors (NDs) support and stimulate the body's ability to heal itself.
The primary goal of naturopathic treatment is to address the cause of illness, rather
than simply treat or suppress symptoms. The patient is seen as a whole person and
the ND takes the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions into account
when diagnosing and developing a treatment plan.
The primary therapies used by naturopathic doctors are: clinical nutrition, botanical
medicine, homeopathic medicine, physical therapies, injection therapies, exercise,
counseling and lifestyle changes.
Is Naturopathic Medicine Safe?
The safety record for naturopathic medicine is excellent. This makes sense, given
the emphasis on non-toxic, natural source medicines and gentle, non-invasive treatments.
Side effects are rare and NDs are knowledgeable about contraindications between naturopathic
remedies and conventional medicines.
In addition, NDs are trained to recognize conditions which are outside their scope
of practice and to refer to other health practitioners when it is appropriate to do
so.
Is Naturopathic Medicine Scientific?
Thousands of modern clinical studies have validated a variety of natural medicines
used by NDs: Echinacea for the immune system and St. John's Wort for depression are
just two examples. Naturopathic schools encourage and facilitate research.
How Are NDs Trained?
NDs take a minimum of three years premedical studies at university, followed by four
years at a recognized college of naturopathic medicine. The education encompasses
basic medical sciences, naturopathic principals and therapeutics, and 1500 hours of
supervised clinical experience. There are six recognized schools of naturopathic medicine
in North America. Dr. Miller graduated from National College of Naturopathic Medicine
in Portland, Oregon.
Naturopathic Approach
The goal of the naturopathic doctor is to understand the patient and all the factors
which impact on his/her health. The ND will take an in-depth patient history. In addition,
the information from a physical exam and laboratory tests may assist in making an
assessment and diagnosis.
A personal treatment plan will then be proposed to help facilitate your healing process.