What Is Naturopathy?
Naturopathy is both a philosophy and way of life that emphasises the body’s ability to heal itself naturally by living within the laws of nature, and by he use of natural foods and medicines (e.g., herbal medicine, homoeopathy, and nutritional therapy) that support self-healing mechanisms. Thus, naturopaths believe that nature has healing powers (vis medicatrix naturae), and that the body has considerable ability to heal itself. Encompassing this philosophy, the true naturopath facilitates and enhances this process with traditional medicines and/or physical therapies, diet and exercise. (1)
The naturopathic approach to health care helps prevent disease and keeps minor illnesses from developing into more serious or chronic degenerative diseases. Health is viewed as more than just the absence of disease; it is considered a dynamic state that enables a person to thrive in, or adapt to a wide range of environments and stresses. (2) One important aspect of naturopathic treatment is the ideal of working in partnership with the patient. This enables the practitioner to work holistically in order that both physical & emotional issues may be addressed.
Have we become a society reliant on a quick fix?
I believe we have, and I further believe that suppressing symptoms has become a common practice. Therefore, is the problem really fixed, or will it come back to bite us later? Logically, patients that are committed to their health and are proactive, increase their chance of a healthier future (particularly at retirement), and therefore should enjoy a better quality of life. This shift in attitude is what I believe will reduce the burden on an already over-stretched Medicare system. By reclaiming ownership of one’s health, and becoming more proactive in your health management, this is a major step in accepting the concept of holism.
References
1. Wayne B. Jonas, Jeffrey S. Levin (1999). Essentials of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Glossary Appendix D. lipincott Williams & Wilkins. A Wolters Kluwer Company. Philadelphia. Baltimore. New York. London. Beunos Aires. Hong Kong. Sydne. Tokyo. Glossary Appendix D. Page 581.
2. Micossi S. Marc (2001). Medical Guides To Complementary & Alternative Medicine. Second edition. Naturopathic Medicine. Fundamentals of Complementary and Altrnative Medicine. Pizzorno, Jr. Joseph E., Snider Pamela. Churchill Livingston. Chap 11, page 173.
