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Writer's pictureSarah Schindler

A Simple Guide to Naturopathic Medicine

Updated: Sep 22, 2023

When your body experiences pain or discomfort, it can be difficult to know where to start. While many research their symptoms online, the overwhelming amount of information combined with medical jargon makes getting to the bottom of things even more puzzling.


You may have heard of naturopathic medicine as an alternative to traditional medicine. Let’s demystify naturopathic medicine in this simple guide so you can better understand its definition, philosophies, and function in holistic treatment.

What is Naturopathic Medicine?


Naturopathic is the adjective form of the noun naturopathy, however, they mean the same thing, and are used interchangeably.


As defined by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, naturopathic medicine is a medical system evolved from a mix of traditional practices and healthcare approaches that were popular in 19th century Europe.


Read more about the definition of naturopathic medicine here.


Watch this short video to better understand naturopathic medicine.



The 6 Tenets of Naturopathic Medicine


Naturopathic physicians and practitioners take a Hippocractic oath to uphold the six tenets of naturopathic medicine in our daily practice. These tenants are:


  1. To First Do No Harm

  2. Utilize the Healing Power of Nature

  3. Identify and Treat the Cause of Disease

  4. Docere- Doctor as Teacher

  5. Treat the Whole Person, Not Just the Disease

  6. Prevent Disease and Illness


​Connecticut Natural Medicine uses these tenets to shape our core philosophy to ensure every patient is treated with kindness, courtesy, and enough time to develop a treatment plan individualized to address their health concerns. Our naturopathic physicians value the doctor-patient relationship and seek to empower our patients with knowledge and support.



Who do I go to for naturopathic medicine?


In the United States, naturopathic physicians or practitioners often provide naturopathic services. People usually visit naturopathic practitioners to diagnose and treat illnesses or conditions, though for primary care and overall well-being.


Naturopathic clinics, such as Connecticut Natural Medicine, are centers for naturopathic medicine and other related therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and more.


What education and licenses are required for naturopathic practitioners?


Generally, naturopathic physicians complete four years of naturopathic medical school on a graduate level program. These schools are accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education.


Some states and territories in the U.S have other licensing requirements such as passing an examination and completing requirements for annual continuing education.


See Connecticut’s requirements here.

Naturopathic Medicine vs. Traditional Medicine: The Key Differences


Naturopathic medicine differs from traditional medicine in its holistic approach to treating disease and ailments. Naturopathy focuses on helping the body heal itself.


While traditional medicine targets symptoms, naturopathy focuses on the whole body to find the root of the problem, factoring in all facets of well-being: spiritual, emotional, and physical.


What are the methods of naturopathic treatment?


Naturopathic medicine adopts various methods, yet all of them focus on an individualized approach based on what you’re experiencing, plus your entire well being. Remember that naturopathic medicine focuses on what your body is trying to tell you, so your body can start healing itself.


Common methods include herbs, massage, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, exercise, IV therapies, supplements, sauna, plunge tubs, hyperbarics, oxygen therapies and more. Other methods may be recommended if necessary.


Disclaimer


If applicable, naturopathic physicians may refer patients to conventional healthcare providers.

It’s important to tell your healthcare providers about any complementary or integrative health approaches to give them the full picture of your health management plan. Coordinating your healthcare will emphasize your safety.


Get in touch with Connecticut Natural Medicine


Visit Connecticut Natural Medicine in Ellington, Connecticut to continue your education on naturopathic medicine, or come to us for naturopathic diagnosis and treatment.


Call us at 860-454-7029 or fill out our contact form here. We are located at 105 West Rd, Suite 6 in Ellington, Connecticut, 06029.


Our naturopathic physicians are here to take care of you and support you with the utmost courtesy and kindness!


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