There are many guides to naturopathic medicine online, but not all of them are created equal. Naturopathic Medicine is a healthcare profession that combines traditional and natural medicine with modern science and research. It is guided by six main principles.
- To do no harm.
- To recognize the healing wisdom of nature.
- To identify and treat the cause of imbalance.
- To teach and provide tools that empower health literacy.
- To treat the person as a whole by exploring beyond the immediate symptoms.
- To promote the prevention of disease.
The Role and Training of Naturopathic Doctors
Naturopathic doctors (ND) are trained in the foundations of health sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, and pharmacology. Their tools for treatment include lifestyle counselling, nutrition, supplementation, western herbal medicine, homeopathy, acupuncture, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). NDs uniquely understand both conventional and naturopathic medicine, allowing them to support your healthcare team. They may work alongside your conventional medical doctor or serve as your primary healthcare provider.
All licensed naturopathic doctors (ND) come from 1 of 7 schools in North America. Graduation from a naturopathic medicine program that is accredited or is a candidate for accreditation guarantees eligibility to sit for the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX), essential for obtaining licensure. Licensure is available in regulated provinces and territories, including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and the Northwest Territories. In the United States, 26 states offer regulation or licensure for NDs, with the scope of practice varying across regions.
Naturopathic medicine is a complete, holistic, and personalized approach to healthcare. NDs work to identify the underlying causes of disease and take steps to support your body’s natural healing abilities. Naturopathic principles emphasize treating the whole person and recognizing the significance of individuality in preparing a wellness or treatment plan. While specific therapies may differ among practitioners, these guiding principles remain consistent.
Naturopathy combines natural remedies with a comprehensive understanding of modern science. NDs use natural therapies to promote good health and well-being, ensuring a holistic approach to patient care. This personalized and integrative method underscores the distinctiveness of naturopathic medicine as a healthcare system.
FAQs About Naturopathic Medicine
What is Naturopathic Medicine and is it Right for Me?
Naturopathic medicine is a holistic approach that combines natural remedies with modern scientific principles to promote overall health and well-being. It often involves making lifestyle and dietary changes designed to support your body’s natural ability to heal. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) work with you to implement these changes at a pace that suits you, whether you’re seeking short-term advice or long-term health coaching. Many NDs offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation to discuss how their approach to natural treatment can benefit you.
If you’re wondering whether naturopathic medicine is right for you, consider that it focuses on the root causes of health issues and tailors treatment plans to individual needs. This personalized approach, part of holistic healthcare, may involve integrating traditional medicine practices with modern techniques. To see if naturopathic medicine aligns with your health goals, schedule a consultation with a licensed naturopathic doctor.
How Will My Naturopathic Doctor Know Which Therapies Are Right for Me?
During an initial consultation, your ND will assess which therapies are best for you. This will be based on your main concerns, your overall wellness as well as your preferences. For example, if you prefer to work solely with nutrition or supplementation, your ND will take this into consideration with your treatment plan. If you feel this was not explored, you should mention to your ND that you prefer to work with specific therapies. Your ND will recommend what they think is best based on their training and clinical experience, but there is room to refine your treatment plan based on your preferences and comfort level.
How Long Will It Take to Heal?
Healing is an individual process and can vary depending on the individual. We encourage people to think about healing as a spiral. With time and consistent effort, your health will make improvements gradually. There are certain individuals who feel the immediate health benefits of naturopathic medicine, while others take more time. An ND will not make guarantees but rather will work with you to find the right plan.
How Many Visits will I Need?
Our NDs require 2 visits to do a full consultation, collect information, and then provide a treatment plan. After this, follow-ups depend on your needs and preferences. It is best to discuss this during your first visit.
Will My Naturopathic Doctor Work With My Medical Doctor?
NDs are trained to work in a complementary way with all types of healthcare providers, including medical doctors. It is best that all of your healthcare providers are made aware of the treatments or therapies you are using.
Is Naturopathic Medicine Covered in Ontario?
Naturopathic medicine is covered by most extended health benefits or health savings plans provided by your employer. It is not covered by OHIP.
Can Naturopathic Doctors Run Labs, and Is This Covered by Insurance?
NDs in Ontario can run many types of labs with some exclusions. They can run basic laboratory testing such as blood and urinary analysis as well as advanced testing for metabolic health, hormone health, digestive health, etc. Some health benefits plans will cover testing. You will need to check with your provider.
Get Expert Guidance on Naturopathic Medicine
At Innate Wellness, our knowledgeable team is ready to answer all your questions and provide insights into how naturopathic medicine can complement your overall wellness strategy.
If you found this guide to naturopathic medicine informative, contact us and find out how we can assist you in achieving your health goals through effective, natural treatments.
