What is a Naturopath?

HIPPOCRATES

Some see Hippocrates, who was known as the “Father of Medicine’,  as the first advocate of Naturopathic Medicine before the term existed.

Naturopathic ideology focuses on naturally-occurring substances, minimally-invasive methods, and encouragement of natural healing, prevention through stress reduction and a healthy diet and lifestyle is emphasised, and pharmaceutical drugs and surgery are generally minimised.

The philosophy of Naturopathic practice is self-described by six core values:

1. First, do no harm; provide the most effective health care available with the least risk to patients at all times (primum non nocere).
2. Recognize, respect and promote the self-healing power of nature inherent in each individual human being. (Vis medicatrix naturae, a form of vitalism).
3. Identify and remove the causes of illness, rather than eliminate or suppress symptoms (Tolle Causam).
4. Educate, inspire rational hope and encourage self-responsibility for health (Doctor as Teacher).
5. Treat each person by considering all individual health factors and influences. (Treat the Whole Person).
6. Emphasize the condition of health to promote well-being and to prevent diseases for the individual, each community and our world. (Health Promotion, the Best Prevention, Practice).