Therapies... - Naturopathy - Forms of Healing

As every individual is unique and each body heals differently, naturopathic doctors employ some or all of the following seven forms of healing: clinical nutrition, botanical (herbal) medicine, homeopathy, oriental medicine/acupuncture, physical medicine/naturopathic manipulation, and lifestyle counselling and prevention. Combining the various methods produces a much more effective healing process.

Involves the relationship between diet and illness. A naturopath will prescribe appropriate vitamins and minerals, in addition to lesser known elements such as amino acids, enzymes and other nutraceuticals to promote healing.

Also referred to as phytomedicine, botanical medicine uses plant-based remedies to promote healing. Preparations include teas, tinctures, capsules, and topical applications. For more information, see the dedicated section on Herbs.

Based on the principle of "like cures like", Homeopathy involves minute doses of plant, animal, and mineral substances to promote healing. For more information, see the dedicated section on Homeopathy.

Naturopathy has much in common with the healing philosophies of oriental medicine / Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which uses dietary changes, plant-based remedies, and Acupuncture to treat and prevent illness. Additional techniques include Acupressure, Ayurveda (from India), Qi-Gong, yoga, and other therapies of Asian origin. The oriental concept of balancing the flow of "qi" (pronounced "Chi"), or life force, through meridian pathways is similar to the naturopathic philosophy of the inherent healing power of the body. For more information on some of these therapies, see the dedicated sections on Acupressure, Acupuncture, and Yoga.

Depending on their specific training, a naturopath can employ a series of hands-on or otherwise physical treatments used to heal musculoskeletal conditions. This includes hydrotherapy, massage, movement re-education, Therapeutic Touch, naturopathic manipulations similar to chiropractic and osteopathic techniques, and other hands-on techniques. For more information on some of these therapies, see the dedicated sections on Hydrotherapy and Massage.

Explores patient's physical, emotional, social, and nutritional environment. Supporting the mind and the spirit is essential to healing the person as a whole.