"Naturopathy", to quote Benedict Lust, "is a distinct school of healing, employing the beneficent agency of Nature's forces, of water, air, sunlight, earth power, electricity, magnetism, exercise, rest, proper diet, various kinds of mechanical treatment, and mental and moral science. The prophylactic power of Nature's finer forces, mechanical and occult, removes foreign or poisonous matter invigorates organs and tissues, and regenerates the entire organism." The term occult meant beyond present understanding.
The foundation of Naturopathy is built upon six principles:
First do no harm.
By employing safe and effective natural therapies, Naturopathic Doctors are committed to the principle of causing no harm to the patient.The healing power of nature.
It is the healing power of nature that restores health when sickness arises. It is the same power that maintains the body in a state of vitality. Naturopathic Doctors are trained to support and nurture the body's natural self-healing abilities.Treat the cause.
Naturopathic practitioners strive to identify the underlying cause of illness rather than simply eliminating or suppressing symptoms.Treat the whole person.
Many factors - physical, mental, emotional, hereditary, environmental and social - can influence our well being. A Naturopathic Doctor carefully evaluates the whole person to provide a treatment plan that meets their unique needs.Prevention is the best medicine.
The prevention of disease and the attainment of optimal health are key objectives in naturopathic care. Naturopathic Doctors assess risk factors and motivate people to adopt and maintain a health-promoting lifestyle.Doctor as teacher.
Naturopathic Doctors empower patients to assume greater responsibility for their own health by providing the tools necessary for their journey to wellness.