Naturopathy is a philosophy, art and science which seeks to engender biological, social, and psychological well-being as a whole through a natural and ecological approach to lifestyle.
According to the World Health Organisation, naturopathy combines several healing methods which reinforce the body's defense mechanisms by means considered natural and organic.
The naturopathic approach to health employs methods both preventive (right living practices) and therapeutic (naturopathic remedies) in order to stimulate physiological and enregetic self-regulation, self-defense, and self-healing. The health problem is dealt with at its source, and within the context of the patient as a whole (holism).
Its preventive and curative function aside, the naturopathic approach involves a veritable « health education », evoking appreciation for balance and Nature by educating patients about the cause(s) of their illness, and involving them directly in their own healing.
Restoration and maintenance of good health is based on the four pillars of naturopathy :
- a healthy, balanced diet
- appropriate physical activity
- a natural, healthy environment
- the skillful management of stress and emotions.
The science of naturopathy requires a certain mastery and understanding of the biological, chemical, physiological, energetic, ecological, psychological, spiritual, and even ontological mechanisms which, together, determine human health. This science is based on the « Hippocratic tradition » but is not a substitute for conventional medecine. It DOES seek to complete it, however, which accounts for its prominence in the field of Complementary Medecine.
Naturopathy adheres to certain operating principles :
1) First, do no harm (primum no nocere)
Naturopaths use methods or remedies which minimize the risk of secondary effects. They do not seek to suppress symptoms, but rather respect and recognize them as part of the body's intelligence and an essential part of self-healing.
2) The healing power of nature (vis medicatrix naturae)
The naturopath recognizes the existence of our capacity for self-healing. The naturopath works with the patient to clear obstacles to wellness and amplify this self-healing capacity.
3) Identify and eliminate the cause (tolle causum)
Naturopaths seek to identify and eliminate the causes of illness, rather than simply mask the symptoms.
4) Detoxify and purify the organism (deinde purgare)
Naturopaths recognize the importance of detoxification/purification by modifying certain lifestyle habits, be they in the realm of diet, hygiene, comportement, etc.
5) The naturopath is a teacher (docere)
Naturopaths seek to inform and educate their clients by encouraging greater awareness and empowering them to take charge of their own health...
