Naturopathic Guiding Principles

The foundation and practice of Naturopathic Medicine is guided by six unique defining principles. Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) strive to integrate every one of these principles into all aspects of diagnosis and treatment.

First do no harm.

NDs choose the least invasive and safest treatments that will cooperate with your body to restore health. This minimizes harmful side effects and avoids the simple suppression of symptoms.

Identify and treat the causes.

While naturopathic medicine can effectively alleviate acute and chronic symptoms of illness, NDs focus on uncovering and resolving the underlying causes of disease. Symptoms of illness are “warning signals” from the body, rather than the cause of disease; they reflect the body’s attempt to heal, and point to a deeper imbalance or improper functioning of the body.

Rather than treating or suppressing the symptoms, treatment directed at the root of the problem will guide your body towards better health.

Support the healing power of the body.

We are blessed with very intelligent bodies! There is a natural and ordered self-healing mechanism that is inherent to our intricate design. By identifying and removing the obstacles to healing, NDs work to facilitate and encourage this self-healing process to shine from within.

Treat the whole person.

Our health and wellbeing is influenced by the interaction of many factors, including physical, genetic, mental, emotional, environmental and social factors. NDs will take the whole picture into consideration when creating treatment plans in order to promote holistic healing for each individual.

Doctors as teachers.

NDs strive to create a therapeutic relationship with patients by working collaboratively as a team. NDs empower patients with the knowledge, tools and strategies to make healthy changes, and encourage patients to take charge of their own health.

Emphasize prevention.

Proactive healthcare is the best healthcare. Naturopathic interventions focus on building up the foundations of good health, and consider the potential risk factors, hereditary susceptibility, and health burdens of each patient.