All things natural and believing in the body’s potential to heal
A form of alternative medicine, Naturopathy is derived from nature and is deemed to be completely natural. The ideology behind naturopathy is that it is based on vitalism and folk medicine. In fact, Naturopathy is non-invasive, promotes self-healing and celebrates nature’s healing powers. The core philosophy being that it recognizes the interconnection and interdependence of all living things. Naturopathy above all honors the body’s wisdom and healing power.
Most importantly, naturopathic medicine is defined by principles rather than the treatment options one can dive into. And like any other field of medicine, naturopathy also has principles by which it functions.
Do No Harm The most non-invasive and least toxic treatments are charted out for people. The first medical approach in naturopathy is to apply an approach of utilizing the most natural and non-toxic therapies. The case of ailment is studied in the patient before the solution from nature is found.
Believing in the healing power of nature The rule of naturopathy is to believe in the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. The body’s inherent wisdom to heal itself and to guide the patient towards wellness is recognize and harnessed in naturopathy. The whole idea is to help and assist the body in responding and healing to the ailment. Substances originating in the nature and natural environment are utilized to heal the patients.
Identify and treat the cause The whole point of treating a disease in naturopathy is to first identify, then address and eventually remove all the underlying causes of disease from its roots. There is a time and place for symptom suppression. By removing any further obstacle the cure becomes solid and stronger.
Doctor as Teacher The only job of a naturopathic doctor is not only to identify, address and remove the disease from the root but also to educate the patients. Enhancing their knowledge of personal health management is important as it empowers people to take their own responsibility. They also acknowledge the therapeutic value inherent in the doctor-patient relationship. It is called elevating health literacy and by this patients better understand the steps and why they need to take them.
Treat the Whole Person The aim is not to treat just one part of the body or a particular disease but to send back the patient fully healthy. Here a holistic approach is devised to recognise the body as a whole. It addresses lifestyle, family history, physical, mental, genetic, and environmental factors in one’s life.
Prevention The aim is to promote and focus on overall health and disease prevention. While educating the patients, the idea of prevention is better than cure is instilled in them.
