Naturopathic Principles
Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic medicine combines the sciences of nature and human function, based on an approach to restoring and maintaining vibrant health that perceives the body as a whole and each person as an individual. Naturopathic medicine integrates the latest discoveries in biochemistry, physiology and diagnostic advancements with the prescription of nutritional, herbal and homeopathic remedies and healing techniques.
The Principles of Naturopathic Medicine:
- First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere)
Naturopathic physicians prefer natural, non-invasive treatments, which minimize the risks of harmful side effects. Prescription drugs are used rarely and only as a secondary measure for a short-term acute intervention when the body is too weak to respond, or while other safer more natural therapies take effect.
- The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae)
Naturopathic physicians understand that it is nature that is the real healer - not doctors, drugs or surgery. Nature cures through the body's inherent healing mechanisms. When supported it can maintain and restore phenomenal health. Naturopathic physicians seek to support and enhance these natural healing systems by using medicines and techniques that work in harmony with body and are free of harmful side-effects.
- Treat the Cause (Tolle Causum)
Every illness has an underlying cause. This is usually related to a person's diet and lifestyle choices. Naturopathic physicians are trained to find and resolve the underlying problem. Symptoms represent feedback from the body of imbalances in regulatory processes. Masking the symptom does not remove the cause.
- Treat the Whole Person
Health or disease comes from a complex interaction of physical, mental, emotional, dietary, genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and other factors. Naturopathic physicians treat the whole person, taking all of these factors into account. Naturopathic physicians can usually find the underlying cause of disease because they are trained to look at the whole person and the intricacies and interrelationships of every system of the whole person.
- Doctor as Teacher (Docere)
The word "doctor" means teacher. Naturopathic physicians believe this is true of their work. They treat patients as equals, but recognize their responsibility to share their knowledge with their patients. A principle objective of naturopathic medicine is to teach the patient about the cause and cure of disease on all levels, emphasizing prevention and self-responsibility. Naturopathic physicians recognize the great importance of the partnership of the doctor and patient in achieving optimal health.
- Health Promotion, the Best Prevention
The Naturopathic Physician shall emphasize the condition of health to promote the well-being and to prevent diseases.