Naturopathy

What is it? /Origins

Naturopathy is a branch of alternative medicine which uses all natural remedies. The main basis behind naturopathy is to place the body in an optimum position to heal itself. The root of the symptoms is targeted as apposed to conventional medicine which ultimately seeks to blanket the symptoms themselves, often overlooking the root of the problem. The approach of naturopathy is holistic whereby all aspects of a person’s physical and emotional health are taken into account when assessing health issues of the individual and strongly promoted to ensure overall health.

What is it used for?

Naturopathy is able to treat any condition\aliment that conventional medicine can treat. It is most commonly used for

• Asthma
• Allergies including food
• Depression and anxiety
• Thyroid and hormonal disorders
• Headaches
• Digestion
• Fertility

With an emphasis on the health for the entire body and mind, naturopathy endeavors to keep the body and immune system in peak working order to prevent disease and to enable people to fight aliments naturally.

How does it work?

Naturopathy generally involves a comprehensive treatment plan according to the aspects of a person’s life including their diet, stress related factors, exercise etc. Dietary restrictions or provisions involving herbs are normal. In addition, other alternative medicines may be employed as a part of the treatment plan. Some naturopaths will be qualified to carry out treatments such as acupuncture, homeopathy and reflexology or make referrals to other practitioners.

Utilizing herbs, dietary changes and other treatments, it is normal to follow a naturopathic plan for several weeks before any significant changes of any use are observed. Because of this, the process may take longer then it would use for conventional medicine, keeping in mind that conventional medicine may not be tackling the root cause and body as a whole.

After a certain period of time, another appointment with the naturopath is required to establish the effectiveness of the initial plan. From here, changes to the plan can be made accordingly.

Is it safe?

Using remedies that result in the least harm and side effects is a main priority for the naturopath. As with other disciplines that fall under alternative medicine, naturopaths may shy away from immunization favoring the body’s natural immunity system. This is considered an unnecessary risk by many people.

Particularly with dietary changes and detoxifying, expected side effects such as headaches, digestive and skin issues could arise. These should be temporary and subside.

You should always inform both your conventional doctor and Naturopath regarding the approach taken by both including medicines and treatments etc. Based on their understanding of your medical history your conventional doctor may advise against certain treatments included in a naturopathic plan.

Any other interesting thing

The benefit of naturopathy has enjoyed increased acceptance amongst the mainstream community and it is not uncommon to see it integrated in conventional medical practices or utilized by conventional practitioners.