Naturopathic medicine is a distinct system of primary health care — an art, science and practice of preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions of the human mind and body. Naturopathic physicians work with their patients to prevent and treat acute and chronic illness and disease, restore health, and establish optimal fitness by supporting the person’s inherent self-healing process. This is accomplished through:
Prevention
Prevention of disease is emphasized through public health measures and hygiene as well as the encouragement and guidance of persons to adopt lifestyles that are conducive to optimal health.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis and evaluation of the individual’s state of health are accomplished by integrating modern and traditional clinical and laboratory diagnostic methods.
Treatment and Care
Therapeutic methods and substances are used which work in harmony with the person’s inherent self-healing process, the vis medicatrix naturae, including: dietetics and nutritional substances, botanical medicine, psychotherapy, naturopathic physical medicine, minor surgery, prescription medications, and homeopathy.
Adapted from The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians House of Delegates Position Paper (What is Naturopathic Medicine); www.naturopathic.org