The Healing Power of Nature
Naturopathic medicine blends the wisdom of nature and traditional knowledge with contemporary science and evidenceNaturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic medicine (also known as naturopathy) is an integrative system of medicine that combines both the wisdom of nature with modern scientific knowledge and evidence. Naturopathic medicine emphasises treatment, prevention and optimal health through the use of natural approaches such as botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, lifestyle counselling, movement and physical therapies. This holistic system of medicine recognises the innate intelligence of the body and the intrinsic relationship between mind, body, spirit, and nature.
Naturopaths are trained as healthcare providers to support those with both acute and chronic conditions, to facilitate optimal health and wellbeing, and in the prevention of disease. Attempting to identify and address the underlying causes of imbalance and disease is fundamental to the naturopathic approach. Integral are also encouraging empowerment, the art of self -care, and the wisdom of listening to our bodies.
The Principles of Naturopathic Medicine
The healing power of nature: Naturopathic medicine recognises and trusts the wisdom of the body and its inherent capacity to heal itself. The naturopathic approach facilitates this healing process by removing obstacles to healing and identifying treatments to enhance it.
Identify and treat the cause: The naturopathic practitioner seeks to practice root-cause medicine, identifying and addressing the underlying causes of illness, rather than to only eliminate or suppress symptoms.
Treat the whole person: Naturopathic practitioners treat the body as an integrated whole in all its physical, emotional and spiritual dimensions, taking into account individual physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, social, and other factors.
Prevention: Naturopathic practitioners emphasise the importance of disease prevention and wellness. We do not work only from the perspective of a disease model of health but aim to help to people to build a strong foundation of health to help prevent future illness.
First do no harm: A naturopathic treatment plan uses therapies that are gentle, the least invasive, non- toxic, and with minimal risk of adverse side effects. Treatments are designed to work in harmony with the body’s natural healing process.
Doctor as teacher: The Latin root of doctor is docere, which means “to teach.” Naturopathic practitioners seek to educate and empower their patients, encouraging personal responsibility for their own health.
‘Weeds are flowers, too, once you get to know them.’ ~ A.A. Milne
