The Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

"The nature of the pathos" - Naturopathic medicine is essentially a combination of modalities integrated together to treat the cause of a pathology.  There are 6 principles which the naturopathic physician abides by:

Vis Medicatrix Naturae - The Healing Power of Nature

Within each body exists an inherent ability to heal itself. Naturopathic doctors recognize an intelligent self-healing process that is innate to each individual. Naturopaths aim to allow for this healing process to occur through supporting it, rather than overtaking this healing capacity.

 

Tolle Causam - Identify and Treat the Cause

The naturopathic doctor aims to identify and treat the underlying cause rather than manage or suppress symptoms. Symptoms are seen as an expression of the body's dysfunction will attempting to heal itself.  A naturopath works to discover the root cause of the pain - perhaps due to an imbalance within.  May it be the immune system, nutritional sensitivity or deficiency, a past injury or an emotional impact.

 

Primum Non Nocere - First Do No Harm

This is achieved by 3 methods:
1. Utilizing modalities with the least risk of harmful side effects
2. Avoiding the harmful suppression of symptoms when possible
3. Using the least force necessary to diagnose and treat illness, and engage the patients innate healing process

 

Docere - Doctor As Teacher

Education and understanding empowers the patient to recognized and take on their own health as a responsibility. Naturopathic doctors work with patients by sharing knowledge and information to create successful treatment plans.

 

Prevention

Naturopathic philosophy views health as more than the absence of disease. Rather, health is seen as the capacity to function at an optimal level.  This incorporates, exercise, a proper diet, balanced lifestyle, positive emotions, and motivation to engage in these. A naturopathic doctor helps the patient to take a pro-active approach to disease prevention and achieving optimal health.

 

Treat the Whole Person

Each person is unique and requires individualized care.  Naturopathic philosophy views disease as a systemic health problem, and has an impact on the whole person, rather than specific to an organ or body system.  In treating the cause of any condition, naturopathic doctors take into account not only your physical symptoms, but also mental, emotional, and energetic blockades to optimal health.  They consider the genetic, environmental, and social factors which can impact ones health.  This is the holistic approach of naturopathic medicine.