What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic Medicine is the art and science of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease using natural therapies with a focus on optimizing health and well-being through individualized
patient care and public education.

Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

1. Primum non nocere - do no harm, effective care with the least risk for all patients;
2. Vis medicatrix naturae - healing power of nature, respect and promote self healing;
3. Tolle causum - Treat the cause, identify and remove causes, avoid suppression of symptoms;
4. Docere - doctor as teacher, educate patients, inspire rational hopes, encourage self responsibility;
5. Treat the whole person - each person is unique with their own factors effecting their health;
6. Health promotion is the best prevention - well-being includes health individually, in the community and globally.

Naturopathic Medical Therapies

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine:
combinations of acupuncture, diet and traditional botanical formulas for diverse conditions.

Botanical Medicine:
Use of whole plants individually and in combinations.

Clinical Nutrition:
Diet and supplementation for health promotion and disease treatment.

Homeopathic Medicine:
Minute doses of plant, animal and mineral substances for treatment and prevention.

Hydrotherapy:
Healing powers of hot and cold water.

Naturopathic Manipulation:
Diverse techniques for correction of musculo-skeletal and neurological conditions.

Prevention and Lifestyle Modification:
Assessment of risk factors and programs to modify behaviour emphasizing self-responsibility.

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.

It is important to note that, since most remedies are not patentable, manufacturers find little financial incentive in conducting costly scientific studies. Thus, funding from independent sources is essential for scientific validation of naturopathic treatments. (see news and reviews for information on recent 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 principles and therapeutics, and 1500 hours of supervised clinical experience. In addition graduates must also pass rigorous standardized exams to qualify for practice.

Do NDs Interact with other Health Professionals?

NDs are trained to recognize conditions that are outside their scope of practice and refer to other health practitioners when it is appropriate to do so. Naturopathic treatments are often combined with conventional medical treatments. It is becoming more common to find NDs working with other health professionals for the good of the patient. NDs refer patients to many other practitioners, both conventional and alternative.

Does OHIP Cover the Cost of a Visit to a Naturopath?

Unfortunately OHIP does not provide any assistance to those wishing to see a naturopathic doctor. Many private health plans do however cover naturopathic treatments.

What Kind of Health Problems can be Treated?

Virtually all chronic and most acute conditions will benefit from treatment by a naturopathic doctor. People of all ages can be helped. The most common health concerns brought to NDs include:

Chronic Illnesses

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Allergies and Environmental Illnesses
• Arthritis and Fibromyalgia
• Hypertension, Atherosclerosis, Heart Problems
• IBS, Crohn's disease, Ulcerative Colitis
• Chronic constipation, Gas and Bloating
• Eczema, Psoriasis, Acne
• Cystitis, Prostatitis, Impotence

Acute Conditions

• Colds and 'Flu
• Ear and Throat Infections
• Headaches
• Intestinal Upsets

Women's Conditions

• Menopausal problems
• PMS and Menstrual Disorders
• Fibrocystic Breast Disease
• Enhancing Health During Pregnancy
• Infertility
• Endometriosis, Ovarian Cysts, Uterine Fibroids

Other

• Mental or Emotional Stress
• Anxiety, Depression
• Insomnia
• Stress-related disorders
• Attention Deficit Disorder
• Hyperactivity
• Minimizing Negative Effects of Surgery, Radiation and Chemotherapy