What is naturopathic medicine?
Thumbtack Editors
Answered
Naturopathic medicine is classified as an alternative healing method, but licensed naturopathic doctors share some of the same academic background as conventional medical doctors and can often prescribe some medications. According to the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP), naturopathic medicine is holistic care that addresses a wide range of problems including (but not limited to) allergies, chronic pain, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, obesity, respiratory conditions, heart disease, fertility problems, menopause, adrenal fatigue, cancer, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Naturopathic medicine aims to strengthen and empower the body and its organs to heal itself through low-force interventions. Here are some examples of the type of medical services often provided by naturopathic doctors, as cited by the AANP:
- Clinical and laboratory diagnostic testing
- Nutritional medicine
- Botanical medicine
- Naturopathic physical medicine (including naturopathic manipulative therapy)
- Hygiene
- Counseling
- Minor surgery
- Homeopathy
- Acupuncture
- Intravenous and injection therapy
- Naturopathic obstetrics (natural childbirth)