According to the latest statistics, there are currently 33,700 naturopathic doctors (NDs) working in Canada.
But for many of us, naturopathic medicine might be a bit of a mystery. We’re all familiar with regular medicine and might be naturally cautious about trying something new.
But naturopathic medicine actually dates back thousands of years. It harnesses the power of your body and nature to achieve better health.
Let’s dig a little deeper into the holistic approach that naturopathic medicine takes.
What Is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine focuses on the healing power of nature. It uses natural substances, https://www.cand.ca/naturopathic-medicine-today/nutrition, and therapies to help the body heal itself. It is rooted in science and uses evidence-based techniques.
A Holistic Approach
Naturopathic medicine treats the whole person rather than just one particular symptom.
Naturopathic doctors spend a lot of time with patients. They want to fully understand their medical history and their current ailments. Lab tests are also used to shine a light on your current state of health.
It also encourages preventative medicine. Naturopathic services include nutritional counselling, weight loss programs, and hormone optimization. Naturopathic doctors can identify susceptibilities to diseases and discuss preventative strategies.
In Canada, a naturopathic medicine doctor (ND) qualifies by first completing a university degree. This is followed by a four-year program in naturopathic medicine. They must have a license to practice in Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.
The Principles of Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic medicine is constantly updating as new evidence comes to light. It is underpinned by six key principles:
- Do no harm
- Harness the healing power of nature
- Identify and treat the causes of illness
- The role of the doctor as a teacher
- Treat the whole person
- Preventative strategies
A naturopathic medical practice uses gentle remedies and treatment. They can sometimes help patients who have not benefited from traditional western medicine. It uses therapies that are kind to the body and don’t cause negative side effects.
Naturopathy unleashes the body’s power to heal itself by removing obstacles to healing. Once the cause of the illness has been identified, the doctor will help the patient to take responsibility for their own health. This includes teaching people about healthy nutrition, attitudes, and lifestyles.
Naturopathic treatment is highly personalized. It treats the whole person by focusing on their individual presentation. Treatments may vary considerably from person to person.
Finally, by practicing preventative medicine, they work with healthy people to help them avoid sickness. Most of us head to see the doctor when we’re feeling unwell. But naturopathy helps us to see the signs and take steps to prevent illnesses before they develop.
What Can Naturopathic Medicine Treat?
Naturopathic medicine can help treat a wide range of conditions. Some of tThese include:
- Sleep disorders
- Digestive problems
- Fatigue
- Allergies and asthma
- Obesity
- Hormone Imbalances
What if you’re suffering from cancer, autoimmune disease, or another serious health condition? Talk to a naturopathic medicine doctor about how you can use naturopathy along with other treatments.
Ready to Schedule Your Naturopathic Medicine Appointment?
Naturopathic medicine is a gentle but highly effective way to improve your health. It can even help to treat long-term conditions that other treatments have not resolved.
At The Dempster Clinic, we provide customized programs for each individual patient. We look at the root cause of the illness to treat the whole person, not just the symptom.
Why not book a complimentary 15-minute discovery session to learn more today?