Natural Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine

Naturopathic medicine is similar to conventional medicine; both types of physicians are trained to diagnose and treat disease.

However, the goal of a naturopathic doctor is quite different.  Naturopathic physicians want each patient to be free from illness, and also headed in the direction to achieve their optimal health and wellness. The methods used to achieve this goal are safe and effective using traditional medicines, such as botanicals, nutrition, and homeopathy.

Naturopathic physicians also differ from conventional doctors in that they are able to provide the time needed to listen to a patient’s concerns, not only their physical, but also their mental and emotional needs in order to address the true cause of any imbalance. Patients leave a naturopathic doctor confident in new knowledge and tools to begin living a healthier, happier life.

Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

• First Do No Harm:  Naturopaths prefer non-invasive treatments that minimize the risk of harmful side effects.
• Identify and Treat the Cause:  Every illness has an underlying cause. True healing is possible only when the deepest roots of imbalance are addressed.
• Treat the Whole Person:  Optimal health is achieved by directly supporting the physical, emotional and, spiritual intricacies of each individual’s life.
• The Body Has Inherent Wisdom to Heal:  Naturopathic physicians believe that the body has a program for well-being and will always return to health if given the correct stimuli to set the healing process in motion.
• Doctor Means Teacher:  The primary goals of the naturopathic physician are to practice, teach, and inspire patients to embrace the principles of healthy lifestyle choices, thereby establishing a strong foundation of health and balance.
• Prevention is Cure:  The naturopathic approach to health care is aimed at preventing imbalances, which, when left unchecked, can eventually manifest as chronic, degenerative disease.