What Is a Naturopath and How Does Naturopathic Treatment Work?
Naturopaths, also referred to as Naturopathic Doctors (ND’s) are primary care providers that base their approach on a set of principles rather than treatment options. These six principles are:
- DO NO HARM: ND’s will try and use the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies available to them. When absolutely necessary, they can refer their patients if other treatments are needed.
- THE HEALING POWER OF NATURE: ND’s recognize the body’s power and inherent wisdom to heal itself. As such, they know that their role is to support and assist the body so it can undergo this healing process.
- IDENTIFY & TREAT THE CAUSES: ND’s like to find the underlying cause of the symptoms of the illness; and instead of suppressing, they treat and remove them so the body can continue to heal.
- DOCTOR AS TEACHER: part of the ND’s role is to inform and educate the patient. This means that the patient is able to make informed decisions on what the best approach is for them and their lifestyle.
- TREAT THE WHOLE PERSON: ND’s are able to customize and restore balance and health by treating the patient as a whole person, not just a symptom or illness. This involves taking their unique qualities and lifestyles into account when coming up with a health plan.
- PREVENT DISEASE: ND’s like to prevent suffering and illness whenever possible. Leading a consciously healthy lifestyle and identifying potential areas of imbalance will more readily allow for this.
By following these six principles, Naturopathic Doctors are able to treat the whole family, including pediatric and fertility naturopathy, among many other areas of concern for children and adults.
Are Naturopaths “real” doctors?
Doctors of Naturopathy are primary care providers and have similar training to conventional medical doctors. While Naturopathic doctors are more prone to using supplements and more natural, less invasive therapies; they are also able to prescribe and use pharmaceuticals. The biggest difference being that naturopathy will have a more personalized approach. NDs treat patients by examining more than just symptoms and look to address the physical, environmental, lifestyle and emotional aspects that contribute to health outcomes.
What can Naturopathic Doctors Treat?
Doctors of Naturopathy are able to treat a wide range of illnesses and symptoms, as well as prevent them. These include but are not limited to:
Babies and Kids:
- Focus, mood and behavioral issues
- Teething
- Eczema, Psoriasis and Cradle Cap
- Sleep Issues
- Digestive Disturbances such as Colic or Reflux
- Developmental Delays and Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Immune System Support
- Preventative Health Strategies
Adults:
- Hormonal Imbalance
- Fertility
- Menopause
- Digestion
- Healthy Diet
- Immune System Support
- Stress
- Sleep Disorders
- Allergies and Skin Conditions
- Migraines
- Degenerative Illnesses such as Arthritis
- Preventative Health Strategies
I already have a primary care physician, should I still see a Naturopath?
Absolutely! Naturopathic Doctors use non-invasive and natural therapies to awaken and support the body's natural abilities to heal. They will assess the physical symptoms as well as take into account any personal and lifestyle factors that could be causing or affecting the overall symptoms or illness. As such, many Naturopaths will work in harmony with traditional western medicines and doctors so you can have a whole health approach and create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific health needs.
At Rooted Family, we provide naturopathy for all family members! Our Naturopathic Doctors work in collaboration with our other practitioners in order to help you and your family achieve your wellness goals.
https://www.cand.ca/common-questions-about-naturopathic-medicine/
