Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae)

Naturopathic medicine recognizes the inherent, ordered and intelligent healing capacity in each individual. Naturopathic physicians work to remove the obstacles to cure and support, stimulate, and optimize the natural healing process using techniques that work in harmony with nature.

Treat the Cause (Tolle Causam)

Naturopathic practitioners work to identify and remove the underlying cause of illness, rather than simply treat symptoms, often looking at diet, lifestyle, habits and environment.

First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere)

Naturopathic practitioners follow three principles to avoid harming the patient:

1. The use of methods and medicinal substances which minimize the risk of harmful side effects.
2. To avoid, when possible, the harmful suppression of symptoms.
3. To acknowledge and respect the individual’s natural healing process.

Doctor as Teacher (Docere)

Naturopathic practitioners educate their patients and encourage self responsibility. They also recognize the therapeutic value of the doctor-patient relationship.

Treat the Whole Person

Naturopathic practitioners treat each individual by addressing the complex interactions of a patient’s physical, environmental, emotional, mental, genetic, social and spiritual aspects. Total health includes spiritual health. It is the integration of all the parts of us.

Prevention (Principiis Obsta sero Medicina Curantur)

Naturopathic practitioners emphasize the prevention of disease by assessing risk factors and making early interventions to prevent illness. Naturopathic practitioners promote wellness by supporting their patients to create healthy lifestyles. Prevention is the best cure.

Cooperation

Naturopathic practitioners cannot do everything — Emergency situations need to be handled by emergency professionals.