Natural Therapies
Modalities of Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic doctors have many "tools" in their "toolbox" so to speak. This range of natural therapies allows naturopaths to not only address physical concerns, but also mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. Each of these natural therapies are used in accordance with the principles of naturopathic medicine to support the body's self-healing process.
Clinical Nutrition
The therapeutic use of foods is one of the healing foundations of nature cure. Naturopathic doctors are extensively trained to understand the role your diet plays on your health. Food intolerances, nutritional deficiencies, dietary imbalances and nutritional excesses are associated with many medical conditions. Your naturopathic doctor can work with you to discover which dietary imbalances may be affecting your health.
Botanical Medicine
Botanical or herbal medicine is the therapeutic use of plants and plant substances. Using plants for their healing properties dates back to the beginnings of civilization. Herbs can be therapeutically used in many forms, including teas, tinctures and capsules. Naturopathic doctors are currently the only health care providers in Canada licensed for the use of botanical medicine.
Homeopathy
A system of medicine that is over 200 years old, homeopathy is based on the principle of "like cures like." Over 2000 homeopathic remedies exist and they are made from very dilute amounts of plant, mineral and animal substances. When carefully matched to a patient homeopathic remedies are able to stimulate the body's innate healing forces on both the physical and emotional levels.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Asian medicine is based on the principle of balancing the body's vital energy or chi. The chi of the body is connected in meridians or channels running just under the skin. Energy is balanced through the use of herbs and acupuncture. Acupuncture is the use of very thin needles which are inserted at points along the meridians of the body. Traditional Chinese Medicine is an ancient practice over 2000 years old.
Physical Medicine
Naturopathic doctors are trained to use a variety of hands-on techniques, including soft tissue work or therapeutic massage, naturopathic manipulation of muscle, bone or spine, gentle electrical impulses, ultrasound, diathermy or heat therapy, exercise therapy and hydrotherapy or water therapy.
Lifestyle Counseling
Mental, emotional, environmental and lifestyle factors can affect health. Naturopathic doctors are trained to counsel on diet, lifestyle, specific stressors, exercise and occupational or environmental hazards as an integral part of the naturopathic treatment program.
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Natural Health Information
Learn more about ...
- What is Naturopathic medicine?
- What are the natural therapies that Naturopathic doctors use?
- What medical symptoms and conditions can Naturopathic medicine treat?
- What are the principles of naturopathic medicine?
- How can I contact a Naturopathic clinic?
