Ace Taking His Herbal Medicine Like a True Rockstar

The phrase “I am a Naturopath” is often followed by a puzzled expression and the question, “Oh, what is that?” After I explain what I do and the tools I use, some people may also add “Oh that stuff, I prefer science”. I look at this response as a big open window of educational opportunity!

Naturopathy is a medical system that has evolved from a combination of traditional practices and health care approaches popular in Europe during the 19th century. Naturopathy is both an art and a science.  In the modern era, Naturopathy is a scientific, evidence-based approach to health with the added benefits of traditional knowledge to bring the best of both worlds together to achieve the most effective result.

We are not witches who wave a dead chook over your head! We have come a long way from there! There is no blood letting or leeches, no cauldron with eye of newt! We are science based health practitioners with flair.

Naturopaths treat both acute and chronic conditions, with Naturopathic care well suited to anyone at any age. Naturopaths are also prevention medicine specialists The Naturopath’s core aim is to effectively assist people with improving overall health. People visit naturopathic practitioners for various health-related purposes, including primary care, overall well-being, and treatment of illnesses. This cannot and should not be done without the appropriate education.

Naturopaths study a minimum of four years full-time. Our Health Science degree includes over 40 subjects covering  anatomy, physiology, pathology, biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, psychology, herbal medicine, nutrition and practical subjects. Naturopaths are required to be registered with a professional association and be insured appropriately. Most countries have professional associations for naturopaths. These associations will have a set of standards of practice and codes of ethics that Naturopaths must abide by. They must also fulfill annual continuing education requirements.

So, what sets Naturopathy apart from other medical practitioners? We want to know the WHY. What is the cause behind your uncomfortable symptoms? Let’s face it – you weren’t walking along the suburban street and whoa! hijacked by a health condition. NO….. it evolved, but why? This is why treating the whole person and the underlying cause is important to recovery.

THE SIX PRINCIPLES OF NATUROPATHY

Six foundational principles underpin the practice of naturopathy: 

· Use the healing power of nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae), 

· First do no harm – do not cause unnecessary discomfort

· Find and treat the cause whenever possible, not only the symptoms (Tolle Causum), 

· Treat the whole person – holistic healthcare

· Education - educate the client to empower them

· Prevention – advise to assist with disease prevention

These six principles are foremost in the practitioner’s mind when they take your case, develop a treatment plan and offer maintenance for long term good health.

Naturopathic case-taking often uncovers dis-ease long before it has become a diagnosable pathology. The term ‘dis-ease’ originates from old French, then to Middle English, and means "lack of ease." When body functioning goes awry, this is actually a ‘lack of ease’. Things no longer run smoothly. These symptoms are MESSAGES FROM YOUR BODY and this is when we need to establish the problem and make the necessary changes.

Naturopathy takes a holistic approach to wellness. This means we look at YOU, not your disease. We want to support YOU to live a healthy energetic lifestyle. The foundations of naturopathy are based on the importance of a healthy diet, clean fresh water, sunlight, moderate exercise and stress management.
 

Naturopathy aims to educate YOU to look after your own health and the health of your family. We want to support your body’s capacity to heal and help balance YOUR body so that illness is less likely to occur in the future.

A well-trained naturopath will ask you about your diet, lifestyle, family background and environment, as well as the history of any illnesses or complaints. This enables them to develop a treatment plan UNIQUE TO YOU.

THE TOOLS OF THE NATUROPATH

A range of therapies are used to support the person. Therapies may include nutritional medicine, dietary advice, herbal medicine, homeopathy, flower essences, lifestyle advice, and tactile therapies, such as massage, acupressure or Bowen technique. Ideally, we work around YOU and your unique lifestyle and capabilities. YOUR treatment plan is developed together, with your input. There is little point in developing a plan you cannot or will not follow, is there? Let’s create realistic and achievable goals together.

The body is both extremely sensitive and incredibly resilient 

By laying a good foundation for health, identifying foods that harm or heal your unique metabolism,  minimising toxin exposure, balancing work and home life, reducing stressors and implementin lifestyle modifications, your body will return to better health.. 

Prescribed nutritional supplements and herbal medicine will aid your body’s innate healing ability, allowing you to regain your vitality and purpose.