Naturopathic medicine

Naturopathic medicine is a holistic system that relies on natural remedies to assist the body in its self-healing process. It includes various therapies like herbs, massage, acupuncture, exercise, and nutritional counseling.

Originating in Germany in the 1800s, naturopathy made its way to the United States, incorporating centuries-old treatments while also integrating some aspects of modern science.

How does it operate?

Naturopathic medicine has the overarching goal of treating the entire person—addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Unlike merely alleviating symptoms, it aims to heal the root causes of an illness.

During a session with a naturopathic doctor, you can expect a thorough examination lasting 1 to 2 hours. They will inquire about your health history, stress levels, and lifestyle habits while possibly recommending lab tests for a comprehensive understanding.

Following the examination, your naturopathic doctor will usually engage in a discussion about your personalized health plan. Emphasizing education and prevention, the focus is on providing advice such as diet, exercise, or stress management tips. In addition to naturopathic treatments, they might incorporate complementary medicines like homeopathy, herbal remedies, and acupuncture. Moreover, touch-based techniques such as massage and pressure may be employed to establish balance in your body, known as naturopathic manipulative therapy.

Who practices naturopathic medicine?

Well, you can find supporters in various settings like hospitals, clinics, community centers, and private offices. There are three main groups, each with different education and backgrounds:

1. Naturopathic physicians (ND or NMD): These professionals attend an accredited four-year graduate-level school. Their education covers basic sciences similar to conventional medical school, along with studies in nutrition, psychology, and complementary therapies like herbal medicine and homeopathy. In some states, naturopathic doctors need to be licensed, requiring them to pass an exam and undergo continuing education.
2. Traditional naturopaths: These practitioners don’t attend accredited naturopathic medical schools and may not be licensed. The extent of their education can vary widely.
3. Healthcare providers: Some medical doctors, dentists, doctors of osteopathy, chiropractors, and nurses have training in naturopathic medicine, either as NDs or through naturopathy studies.

Before choosing a naturopathic practitioner, it’s advisable to inquire about their education or training and check if they meet your state’s licensing requirements.

Wondering if naturopathic medicine will work for your condition?

It’s commonly used for various health issues, including:

• Allergies
• Headaches
• Fertility problems
• Digestive troubles
• Obesity
• Hormonal imbalances
• Chronic pain
• Chronic fatigue syndrome

In certain states, licensed naturopathic doctors can perform minor surgeries and prescribe medications. They may even act as your primary care doctor and receive additional training in natural childbirth.

It’s not just for treating illnesses; you can also consider naturopathy to enhance overall health or prevent future illnesses. However, it’s crucial to note that naturopathic medicine isn’t suitable for emergencies or conditions requiring hospital visits, such as major surgery. Additionally, it’s not a substitute for conventional medicine in dealing with serious conditions like cancer or heart disease.

Potential side effects and risks.

While naturopathic treatments can be beneficial, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects and risks. Here are a few considerations:

1. Supplements (vitamin and herbal): Some supplements may interact with prescription medications, and high doses of certain vitamins could increase the risk of diseases like cancer.
2. Spinal adjustments: As part of naturopathic manipulative treatment, applying pressure to the spine may pose risks such as damage to arteries, nerves, bones, and spinal discs, with rare cases leading to a stroke.
3. Detox diets: These diets, aimed at eliminating toxins, may involve cutting out foods or fasting, which could be dangerous for those with chronic conditions like diabetes, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies over prolonged periods.

It’s crucial to inform your doctor if you’re considering naturopathy to ensure that the treatments are safe and don’t interfere with other medications. Naturopathic medicine does not replace conventional medical care. It’s crucial to continue and not delay your doctor-prescribed treatments.

Naturopathy can be an option for those seeking relief from chronic illnesses when traditional medicine falls short. In some cases, a combination of conventional and naturopathic approaches may be suitable, such as using naturopathic remedies to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy. Communication between your regular doctor and naturopathic practitioner is key, to ensuring a collaborative approach to your health.