Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic medicine and principles can be utilized in most cases and is especially effective for the treatment of chronic and degenerative disease.
Our philosophy is to identify and treat the cause of disease, not just treat the symptoms. We try to utilize natural approaches first, such as nutrition, herbs, and vitamins. However in some, prescription meds may be indicated. We want to use the most effective, least toxic approach available. It’s amazing how the body heals itself once we remove the cause of the issues, or provide it optimal nutrition.
A Naturopathic Physician is a graduate of one of the four accredited naturopathic medical schools in the United States. The curriculum is a 4 year post-graduate program integrating medical science with time honored naturopathic principles, which address the cause of disease instead of just treating the symptoms. The training consists of comprehensive study of the conventional medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, microbiology, immunology, clinical and physical diagnosis, cardiology, gastroenterology, gynecology, etc, as well as detailed study of a wide variety of natural therapies.
Naturopathic physicians are guided by six principles:
- First, Do No Harm
- The Healing Power of Nature
- Find the Cause
- Treat the Whole Person
- Preventative Medicine
- Doctor as Teacher
Naturopathic physicians utilize conventional testing such as blood work, physical exam, salivary hormone testing, and imaging for assessment. Treatment is based on those assessments and may include nutrition, vitamins/minerals, herbs/botanicals, and natural hormones, as indicated. Naturopathic physicians are licensed in 20 states and Canada. The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians is the national professional organization of qualified Naturopathic Physicians.