What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic medicine is a form of primary health care that has been practiced in North America and under Ontario law since 1925. Naturopathic doctors recognize the inherent ability of the body to heal itself and act to identify and remove obstacles to its recovery. Symptoms are seen as manifestations of the efforts of the body to return to health. The goal of treatment is to identify and eliminate the underlying causes of illness rather than suppressing symptoms. The naturopathic approach can prevent minor illness from developing into more serious chronic degenerative diseases. The modern naturopathic doctor provides a comprehensive range of diagnostics, treatments and therapies, and if necessary, referral to the appropriate specialist.

How are Naturopathic Doctors Trained?

Naturopathic doctors must study at least 7 years to become eligible to practice in Ontario. A licensed naturopathic physician (N.D.) attends a four year graduate level naturopathic medical school and is educated in all the same basic sciences as an M.D. but also studies holistic and non-toxic approaches to therapy with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and optimizing wellness. In addition to a standard medical curriculum, the naturopathic doctor is required to complete four years of training in clinical nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathic medicine, botanical medicine, and lifestyle counseling. A naturopathic doctor takes rigorous professional board exams so that he or she may be licensed in the province of Ontario as a primary care general practice physician.