What is Naturopathic Medicine?

A distinct primary health care profession, emphasizing prevention, treatment, and optimal health through the use of therapeutic methods and substances that encourage individuals’ inherent self-healing
process.  The practice of naturopathic medicine includes modern and traditional, scientific, and empirical methods. 

Naturopathic practice includes the following diagnostic and therapeutic modalities: 

• Clinical and Laboratory Diagnostic Testing 
• Minor Surgeries
• Prescription Medications 
• Intravenous and Injection Therapy 
• Nutritional  & Botoanical Medicine
• Naturopathic Physical Medicine (including naturopathic manipulative therapy)
• Public health measures 
• Hygiene
• Counseling 
• Homeopathy
• Acupuncture
• Naturopathic Obstetrics (natural childbirth). 

What is a Naturopathic Doctor?

Naturopathic doctors are educated and trained in accredited naturopathic medical colleges. They diagnose, prevent, and treat acute and chronic illness to restore and establish optimal health by supporting the person's inherent self-healing process. Rather than just suppressing symptoms, naturopathic doctors work to identify underlying causes of illness and develop personalized treatment plans to address them.

In Oregon, as in most states, ND's can prescribe pharmaceutical medications.  However, pharmaceuticals are often used in conjunction with more a more holistic health plan which addresses the whole person and strives to get to the root of the underlying illness that may be causing the patient's symptoms.  As many patients educate themselves on the importance of nutrition, lifestyle, and the potential long term side effects of many western medicine intervention, Naturopathic Medicine is rapidly growing popularity. 

Resources:

https://www.naturopathic.org/about

https://aanmc.org/