Why you should see a naturopath…
A naturopath can support many conditions, from an acute illness such as the common cold or nausea, to more complex conditions. Some common conditions include digestive issues, chronic fatigue, stress and anxiety, hormonal imbalances, skin conditions, allergies, asthma, weight management, joint and pain inflammation, cardiovascular disease, autoimmunity and cancer.
Naturopathic practitioners follow six core principles that guide their approach to health and healing:
First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere): Naturopathic medicine emphasizes using treatments that are safe and minimally invasive. Practitioners aim to avoid causing harm and to use natural therapies that support the body's own healing processes.
Identify and Treat the Cause (Tolle causam): Rather than merely addressing symptoms, naturopaths seek to identify and treat the underlying causes of health issues. This involves looking at physical, emotional, and environmental factors that may contribute to a patient’s condition.
The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae): Naturopathic medicine believes in the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. Practitioners aim to support and enhance this natural healing process through various treatments and lifestyle changes.
Doctor as Teacher (Docere): Naturopathic practitioners view themselves as educators who empower patients to take charge of their health. They provide information and guidance to help patients make informed decisions about their health and wellness.
Treat the Whole Person (Tolle totum): Naturopaths consider the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—when developing a treatment plan. They take into account a patient’s physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors to create a comprehensive approach to health.
Prevention is the Best Cure (Praevenire): Emphasis is placed on preventing illness and promoting wellness through healthy lifestyle choices, education, and proactive care. Naturopaths encourage practices that prevent disease and maintain overall health.
These principles guide naturopathic practitioners in their work, focusing on individualized care and holistic approaches to health.
Qualifications
A modern day naturopathic practitioner has a Bachelor Health Science Degree, which encompasses extensive knowledge in a blend of traditional naturopathic practices along with evidenced-based research into all well-known pathological states and associated natural remedies.
What to expect during an appointment
A naturopathic practitioner gathers detailed information from a client to understand the patient's overall health and to identify underlying causes of health issues such as:
Medical History: Current and Past Health Conditions, Medications and Supplements, Allergies and Reactions
Family History: Genetic Conditions
Lifestyle Factors: Diet and Nutrition, Physical Activity, Sleep Patterns, Stress and Emotional Well-being
Environmental Factors: Living Conditions, Work Environment
Social and Personal History: Relationships and Support Systems, Lifestyle Choices
Reproductive and Sexual Health: Menstrual History. Sexual Health
Previous Therapies and Treatments: Response to Past Treatments
Health Goals and Concerns: Patient’s Objectives, Specific Health Concerns.
By considering these aspects, a naturopathic practitioner aims to gain a holistic view of the patient’s health and create a personalized treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and root causes of their health issues.