Naturopathy, or naturopathic medicine, is a modality that is based on the healing power of nature. A holistic system, meaning that the practitioner strives to find the cause of your “dis-ease” by understanding your body, mind and spirit and combine a variety of therapies including nutrition, behaviour changes, herbal medicine and acupuncture to aid you in healing.

Naturopathy dates back to the 18th & 19th century and was popular with individuals who wanted to incorporate principles of a healthy diet, and reducing their intake of saturated fats. By the late 40’s its popularity had decline, however making it’s return 20 years later and its popularity continues to increase as people look for other solutions to help them live a healthier life.

Naturopathy can be divided into two areas of focus; supporting the body’s own healing abilities & empowering people to make lifestyle changes for better health.

When visiting a Naturopathic doctor, your doctor will use diagnostic tools to get a better understanding and a a thorough history of your life and lifestyle; including diet, lifestyle habits, stress levels, environmental exposures. Getting an overall picture of YOU allows your Naturopath to treat the “whole” you, meaning they consider a variety of factors before offering a diagnosis or illness. Things like mental and or emotional state, diet, family history and environment can all play a role in your overall health and well-being.

Working with you, your Naturopath will develop an overall treatment plan, using a variety of different therapies that are based along the principal that they assist the body’s healing response and are often more effective when combined. This treatment plan will not only address the physical aspect of your life but also your emotional and spiritual states. Some treatments may include: Clinical Nutrition, Botanical Medicine, Homeopathic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Physical Medicine (Therapeutic Massage), prevention and lifestyle counseling to name a few.

A great resource for more information on Naturopathic medicine is the Canadian Association for Naturopathic Doctors, or better yet book an appointment today & find out how Naturopathic Medicine can help you.