Are you curious about naturopathic medicine and naturopathic doctors but are unaware of the best place to start? In this Dr. Doni blog, we will explore what naturopathic medicine is, what its benefits are and how you can become a naturopathic doctor.  

What Is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic medicine focuses on natural remedies that assist the body in healing itself. These natural remedies include nutritional counseling, exercise, acupuncture, massage and herbs. It does not eschew traditional medicine altogether, so practitioners may use some aspects of traditional medicine along with naturopathic techniques. 

Naturopathy acknowledges the fact that several things contribute to the health of a human being. For example, the person’s environment, genetics, mental state, as well as their physical well-being can all contribute to why someone may be experiencing ill health. A naturopathic doctor takes all of these factors into consideration while treating the patient. 

Rather than focusing merely on the symptoms, naturopathy strives to find the psychospiritual, structural, biochemical and physiologic causes of the condition. This allows the practitioner to alleviate the condition rather than just treat the symptoms of an illness.  

Naturopathic Doctors vs. Traditional Doctors

What is a naturopathic doctor?

Naturopathic doctors attend accredited naturopathic medical schools to receive either a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (NMD) or a Doctor of Naturopathy (ND). The District of Columbia, as well as 24 states, regulate this practice. After they earn their NDs or NMDs, they must pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exam. 

The state of Utah is the only state that requires naturopathic doctors to obtain postgraduate training. Naturopathic Medical Education does not require naturopathic residents to complete their residencies in different types of healthcare settings, study any particular health condition or treat patients of all ages. 

In contrast, traditional doctors attend medical school to earn a Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) or Doctor of Medicine (MD). After graduating from medical school, they are required to attend a residency program of three to seven years. They can become licensed by their state and board-certified upon completion.  

Are Naturopathic Doctors Real Doctors?

Yes, naturopathic doctors are real, licensed doctors. They assist their patients by preventing, diagnosing and treating the holistic individual. The naturopathic doctor’s main focus is on finding the underlying cause of a patient’s malady. This approach ensures that the practitioner improves a person’s body as well as the mind. 

The Benefits of Naturopathic Medicine

The Focus Is on Prevention Rather Than Treating Symptoms Only.

The patient’s lifestyle and current diet are highly important topics for a naturopathic doctor. To make the prevention of disease the focus of practice, the naturopathic doctor focuses on diet and lifestyle choices rather than medical tests and procedures.   

The Relationship between a Naturopathic Doctor and a Patient Is One of Collaborators and Learners.

Along with treating their patients, naturopathic doctors teach their patients how the remedies they offer are going to cure them so that they can take more control of their medical journeys.

The Medical Approach Is Not as Invasive as Traditional Techniques.

Naturopathic doctors focus more specifically on gentle therapies, herbal supplementation and lifestyle changes compared to more traditional medical strategies and techniques. They may also use a combination of alternative medicine and traditional medicine.    

How to Become a Naturopathic Doctor

If you are interested in how to become a naturopathic doctor, we will address that subject in this section. To become a naturopathic doctor, you must attend a federally accredited naturopathic medical school. This is a four-year, professional-level program. After receiving your ND or NMD, you can become licensed by taking and passing the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exam. 

Conclusion

If you are interested in pursuing naturopathic care, you do not have to refuse to see your traditional healthcare provider. Visit Dr. Doni, and find out how she and your primary care physician can work together.