"The natural healing force within each one of us is the greatest force in getting well."
- Hippocrates

Naturopathic Medicine Defined

Naturopathic medicine is a comprehensive and advanced system that encompasses a wide range of therapeutic systems, including clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, Asian medicine and acupuncture, environmental and physical medicine. The word naturopathy is derived from "naturae" meaning "natural" and "pathos" meaning "suffering." Naturopathic medicine is based on the healing power of nature to support and stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself. 

Support the Body’s Ability to Heal

Naturopathic medicine is distinguished from other types of medicine by the principles that underlie and determine its practice. The Naturopathic methods used are chosen based on the individual needs of each patient and not by specific symptoms. Naturopathic physicians work to restore balance in a gentle and effective way, minimizing the potential for side effects.   Treatment options encompass natural techniques and substances that stimulate the body’s inherent capability to heal itself; therefore, naturopathic doctors do not use drugs or surgery. Instead, they base their treatment programs on consultation, examination and diagnosis in order to treat the whole person. The naturopathic doctor views the individual as an integral whole, where symptoms of disease are seen as warning signals of improper functioning of the body and unfavourable lifestyle habits.

Integrated Healthcare

The primary goal of naturopathic medicine is to treat the underlying cause of the disease to improve health. Naturopathic doctors can also complement and enhance healthcare services provided by other healthcare professionals. This provides patients with a truly integrative form of healthcare that best suits the patient’s needs.

Top of page