Naturopathy

Naturopathy is based on several guiding principles, often referred to as the ‘six principles of naturopathic medicine’, which include:

• The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae): This principle acknowledges that the body has an innate ability to heal itself. Naturopaths work to remove obstacles to healing and support the body’s natural processes to restore health.
• Identify and Treat the Cause (Tolle Causam): It focuses on finding and addressing the underlying causes of illness, rather than just treating symptoms. This involves looking at the physical, emotional, and environmental factors that might be contributing to the condition.
• First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere): Naturopaths seek to use treatments that are safe, non-invasive, and natural. The goal is to support the body’s healing without causing harm or side effects, often opting for the least aggressive approach.
• Doctor as Teacher (Docere): Naturopaths emphasise the importance of educating and empowering patients to take an active role in their own health. By providing information about lifestyle choices, diet, and other healing practices, the naturopath helps the patient develop the knowledge to make informed decisions.
• Treat the Whole Person (Tolle Totum): Naturopathy treats the individual as a whole, considering not just the physical symptoms but also the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of health. Naturopaths work to balance all areas of life to improve overall well-being.
• Prevention is the Best Cure: Naturopaths focus on preventative care and health promotion, teaching patients how to live a healthy lifestyle and avoid illness through proper nutrition, exercise, and stress management.