Naturopathic medicine traces it's roots to Hippocrates, a Greek physician who lived several centuries before the birth of Christ. Hippocrates taught that disease and illness had rational causes that could be found in nature, so he looked for their cures in nature as well. Naturopathy emphasizes prevention of disease and healthful lifestyle to assist the body's own healing power. It assumes that nature is the greatest healer.
Naturopathy is not one system of alternative healing but encompasses a variety of therapies which include : herbal medicine, exercise therapy, physical therapy, nutrition, homeopathy, acupuncture, acupressure, hydrotherapy, natural childbirth, and lifestyle counseling.
How does a naturopath treats a patient? A naturopathic physician will guide a patient toward a healthful lifestyle, but the patient must also take an active role, both in maintaining wellness and in the healing process. For example, when you have a headache, what do you usually do? Instead of swallowing a couple of aspirin, you might sip a cup of rosemary, peppermint, or sage tea. Or take a nap. Or a walk. Massaging the back of the neck relieves some headaches. Then you'll want to consider why you had the headache in the first place. Part of the naturopath's natural method of healing is that you discover the cause of the problem and eliminate it, so that it won't happen again. Naturopathic philosophy, teaches that when you're in tune with your own mind and body, you will be able to determine the appropriate safe and natural treatment for yourself. The aim is not the quick cure, but the safe cure.
22 September 2006
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