About Naturopathic Medicine

What is Naturopathic medicine?

Naturopathic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on treating the root causes of illnesses using natural therapies, lifestyle changes, and traditional healing methods. Naturopathic doctors, follow six core healing principles that guide their approach:

1. First, to do no harm, by using methods and medicines that minimize the risk of harmful side effects.
2. To treat the causes of disease, by identifying and removing the underlying causes of illness, rather than suppressing symptoms.
3. To teach the principles of healthy living and preventative medicine, by sharing knowledge with patients and encouraging individual responsibility for health.
4. To heal the whole person through individualized treatment, by understanding the unique physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental and social factors that contribute to illness, and customizing treatment protocols to the patient.
5. To emphasize prevention, by partnering with the patient to assess risk factors and recommend appropriate naturopathic interventions to maintain health and prevent illness.
6. To support the healing power of the body, by recognizing and removing obstacles to the body’s inherent self-healing process.

What services do naturopathic doctors provide?

Naturopathic doctors offer a range of services, including personalized treatment plans, dietary and lifestyle counseling, herbal medicine, acupuncture, and other natural therapies. They are also able to run diagnostic tests.

In Ontario, Naturopathic doctors can be additionally licensed to prescribe certain medication, and can perform IV and injection therapies.

How is naturopathic medicine different from conventional medicine?

Naturopathic medicine emphasizes a holistic and individualized approach, addressing the underlying causes of illness. It often integrates natural therapies, whereas conventional medicine typically uses pharmaceuticals and surgery.

But can NDs replace conventional care? The answer is no. Naturopathic medicine is designed to complement, not substitute, conventional care. Many individuals initially seek conventional treatment before incorporating naturopathic care. For example, when dealing with active cancer, naturopathic care cannot replace conventional cancer treatments.

Do naturopathic doctors work alongside medical doctors?

Yes, many naturopathic doctors collaborate with medical doctors to provide comprehensive care. They may share information and coordinate treatments to ensure the best outcomes for patients.

Is naturopathic medicine evidence-based?

Naturopathic medicine combines traditional knowledge with evidence-based practices. Many naturopathic treatments are supported by scientific research, and practitioners stay informed about the latest studies.

What conditions can naturopathic medicine treat?

Naturopathic medicine can address a wide range of conditions, including chronic illnesses, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, allergies, and stress-related disorders. It focuses on enhancing overall wellness.

In cases where traditional treatments fall short of delivering satisfactory relief, individuals often turn to naturopathic medicine as a complement to their ongoing care. For example, integrating specific dietary and lifestyle interventions with traditional approaches has shown notable improvements in managing heart disease.

Some people struggle with the side effects linked to conventional treatments and seek relief through naturopathic medicine. Various naturopathic therapies have been extensively studied and proven effective in reducing side effects resulting from radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

For those who find conventional care too invasive or unnecessary, naturopathic care becomes a preferred primary approach. Take the example of individuals at risk of being prescribed medication for pre-diabetes; they may choose naturopathic care to control their condition and avoid the need for medications.

Naturopathic medicine places a strong emphasis on preventive measures, making it a popular choice for individuals at higher risk of developing certain diseases. Imagine someone with a family history of cancer or a past cancer survivor—opting for naturopathic care proactively helps prevent the onset of cancer, even if they are currently free of the disease.

In essence, Naturopathic Doctors offer a holistic approach, addressing not just symptoms but underlying causes, providing personalized care to enhance overall well-being. Consider naturopathic care as a valuable ally in your health journey, offering solutions that resonate with your unique needs and preferences.

Are naturopathic treatments safe?

Naturopathic treatments are generally considered safe when administered by trained professionals. Naturopathic doctors consider the individual’s health history and possible interactions with medications.

Are naturopathic treatments effective for children?

Naturopathic treatments can be beneficial for children. NDs use gentle approaches, such as dietary changes and natural remedies, to support children’s health and address common issues like allergies or digestive problems.

Do naturopathic doctors prescribe medications?

Naturopathic doctors may prescribe natural supplements, herbal remedies, and lifestyle changes. In some jurisdictions, such as Ontario, they may have limited prescription rights for certain medications.

Is naturopathic care covered by insurance?

While naturopathic care is not covered by all insurance plans, many policies include some coverage. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage.

Currently, OHIP doesn’t cover naturopathic visits, but many insurance and extended health care plans do offer coverage for certain services annually.

How long does a typical naturopathic appointment last?

Naturopathic appointments are often longer than conventional medical appointments, ranging from 30 to 90 minutes. This allows for a thorough assessment and discussion of treatment options.

Before your first visit, you’ll need to fill out comprehensive health history forms. Your Naturopathic doctor may order standard diagnostic labs or request them from your Medical doctor with your permission.

Can naturopathic medicine be used alongside conventional treatments?

Yes, naturopathic medicine can complement conventional treatments. Many patients choose to integrate both approaches to benefit from a comprehensive and balanced healthcare plan.

To achieve the best outcomes, collaboration is key. Your naturopathic doctor should work alongside your family doctor or other conventional physicians, especially when managing complex or serious medical conditions. Naturopathic care shines when used as a supportive role, working hand-in-hand with conventional approaches for comprehensive well-being.

Is naturopathic medicine only for alternative health enthusiasts?

Naturopathic medicine is for anyone seeking a holistic approach to health. While it aligns with alternative health principles, it caters to individuals looking for personalized and comprehensive care.

Are naturopathic doctors regulated?

In many jurisdictions, including the United States and Canada, naturopathic doctors are regulated healthcare professionals. They must meet specific educational and licensing requirements to practice.

In Ontario, Naturopathic Doctors operate under the regulations of the Regulated Health Professions Act, which also governs other healthcare professions like medical doctors, chiropractors, and physiotherapists. The regulatory authority overseeing Naturopathic Doctors in Ontario is the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO).