Naturopathic medicine focuses on preventative wellness and the body’s self-healing processes using natural modalities. Naturopathic medicine has origins based in traditional healing systems that are centuries old. However, this field of medicine was introduced in the United States by the German physician Dr. Benedict Lust in the late 1800s.
In practice, naturopathic medicine integrates modern scientific analysis of one’s physiology, anatomy, and biochemistry in treating the whole body, mind, and spirit which is one of the leading benefits of naturopathic medicine. While this form of medicine has grown exponentially over the years and has been widely recognized as a safe and effective healthcare system, some myths and misconceptions persist about naturopathic medicine. Our naturopathic doctors in San Diego want to ensure that you’re aware of the five misconceptions that prevent many potential patients from exploring worthwhile naturopathic treatment options that they could benefit from significantly.
- Naturopathic medicine is not based on science.
There are several things you may not know about naturopathic doctors. For example, naturopathic doctors are trained to apply what they’ve learned in biomedical sciences and draw from scientific research and evidence when developing patient treatment plans, just as conventional doctors do. Naturopathic doctors integrate botanical medicines, clinical nutrition, and physical medicine into their treatment plans. Naturopathic medicine has also gained support from peer-reviewed scientific journals. Sharing the results of thirty-three studies on the efficacy of naturopathic medicine, the National Library of Medicine concluded in its published report that, “research in whole-system, multi-modality naturopathic medicine shows that it is effective for treating cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal pain, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, depression, anxiety, and a range of complex chronic conditions.”
- Naturopathic doctors do not undergo accredited training.
Upon completing an undergraduate degree program at an accredited university with pre-medical prerequisites, naturopathic doctors attend a four-year, in-residence naturopathic medical school and study the same clinical science courses as conventional medical doctors. However, they also study holistic and non-toxic treatment alternatives, including clinical nutrition, physical medicine, homeopathic medicine, herbal medicine, hydrotherapy, and counseling. Many students also learn additional modalities to include nutrient IV therapy, regenerative medicine, epigenetics, Ayurvedic medicine, Chinese medicine, and acupuncture. - Naturopathic doctors are against using pharmaceuticals or treatments used in conventional medicine.
Nothing could be further from the truth. Naturopathic doctors understand that a patient’s use of pharmaceutical medicine is often necessary to treat certain medical conditions. In many situations, naturopathic treatments are used in conjunction with conventional medical treatment methods and pharmaceutical medication, treating the symptoms and the underlying causes of illness. There are also six principles of naturopathic medicine that a naturopathic doctor must follow when treating every patient.View this post on Instagram - Naturopathic treatments consist solely of dietary supplements. Naturopathic medicine embraces treatment plans that may include dietary supplements. However, treatment approaches are much more comprehensive and geared toward helping patients improve their health through diet, lifestyle choices, and other natural treatment methods and techniques. Many naturopathic doctors use botanical medicine to treat and prevent disease. Additionally, analysis of blood, stool, and urine are also utilized, as is functional testing to determine the root cause of illness and the best treatment for patients.
- Naturopathic medicine is the same as homeopathic medicine. Naturopathic doctors are trained in homeopathic medicine as part of their medical school coursework. They will often employ homeopathic approaches as part of the therapeutic tools available to them. However, naturopathic medicine comprises several complementary treatment methods beyond conventional medical health interventions. Other treatment approaches used in naturopathic medicine include hydrotherapy, which uses water therapy to achieve pain relief as well as optimize immune function; physical medicine, which is used to restore structure and mobility; and counseling and behavioral medicine which recognizes cognitive and emotional factors in addition to cultural and behavioral contributors to health.
View this post on Instagram
Naturopathic medicine has a long history of traditional philosophies from all over the world. This field of medicine draws from several medical disciplines and various holistic treatment methods backed by science and incorporates practical approaches that support the body’s ability to heal itself. Naturopathic medicine treats the entire individual, not just the medical condition or illness.
With origins that date back to ancient times, modern naturopathy has been recognized and acknowledged for many of its established practices and contributions to medicine worldwide. It is important to dispel misconceptions associated with naturopathic medicine so that more people can take advantage of the many complementary treatments and benefits it has been proven to deliver.
Learn more about how naturopathic medicine can be seamlessly integrated into your life and deliver an abundance of benefits by contacting Naturopathic Rx today and scheduling a consultation with one of our Naturopathic Doctors. NaturopathicRx San Diego is dedicated to being your prescription to health.
Testimonial from Olive, Naturopathic Patient
Dr. Ginger is such an amazing human being. Not only is she so knowledgeable about many things, but her kind and nurturing nature is one of a kind. She helped me navigate my worries and guide me in the right direction. I’m truly appreciative of Dr. Ginger and the beautiful loving space they created for their clients.