Humza Khizer

Understand the principles and practices of naturopathic medicine with Meri Sehat. Explore holistic approaches to health and well-being.

Naturopathic Medicine – What Is It?

Introduction

In the world of allopathic medicine, naturopathy is a unique healthcare system that accentuates the use of preemptive and natural therapeutics. The focus is on healing different kinds of ailments through natural ailments.

Naturopathic medicine comprises multiple therapies, such as massage, <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/is-acupuncture-the-right-choice-for-you">acupuncture</a>, exercise, and nutritional counseling, using natural resources like soil, water, and sunlight.

While naturopathy was discovered nearly 2,400 years ago by the Greek physician Hippocrates, it has evolved over time and new scientific concepts have merged with conventional forms of therapy to develop this branch of medicine. 
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Note: Naturopathic medicines are not a substitute for medications prescribed by your health care practitioner. They should not be used as a standalone treatment. Please consult your doctor for guidance on different treatment options for your ailment(s). 
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Understanding the basics of the naturopathic healthcare

These include:

1.&nbsp;The Healing Power Of Nature: The ability of the human body to heal itself is exceptional and a doctor can only assist with this healing process.

2.&nbsp;First Do No Harm: The Hippocratic principle encourages healthcare practitioners to use minimally invasive procedures and medications and to, ideally, restrict other potentially harmful treatments to the last resort.

3.&nbsp;Health Workers As Teachers: Doctors of naturopathy are teachers educating their patients. They give their patients a better idea of what it takes to get well so they&rsquo;re able to make informed choices.

4.&nbsp;Prevention And Wellness: The idea here is prevention is better than cure. In addition to focusing on sickness prevention and treatment, naturopathic doctors also work to promote overall well-being.

5.&nbsp;Treat The Cause: The primary concern of the treatment is the underlying cause of the illness. Sometimes, though, it&rsquo;s not possible, especially if the causes are not identified.

6.&nbsp;Treat The Whole Person: Naturopathic physicians are aware of the interdependence of the human body, the environment, and lifestyle. Naturopathic doctors only attempt to reestablish balance and health by using this holistic approach, not just one symptom or one organ, or one contributing factor. 
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IMPORTANT!

More research is needed to verify these principles of naturopathic medicine. 
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Numerous therapies and methods are available for naturopathic therapy, including but not limited to:

<ul>
	<li>Nutritional Advice: A balanced diet, including fresh and unprocessed foods, is crucial for maintaining a healthy body.</li>
	<li>Herbal Medicine: Supplements have traditionally been used for all health.</li>
	<li>Hydrotherapy: This is a complementary therapy procedure that relies on the natural healing power of water to treat chronic health conditions or skin-related issues.</li>
	<li>Iridology: It serves as a diagnostic tool to identify the location of weakness or inflammation based on an analysis of the patient&rsquo;s iris.</li>
	<li>Massage: One of the physical therapies that are recommended by a naturopath, massage aids in recovery and easing of muscular tension.</li>
	<li>Nutritional Supplements: These are particularly helpful when immunity is weakened due to illness. A build-up of toxins from a poor diet can also keep the body from functioning optimally, thus requiring some extra support from these supplements</li>
	<li>Manipulative therapies include osteopathy, chiropractic, and manual medicine. These are often used for musculoskeletal problems, joint issues, posture and muscle problems 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Note: Please consult your doctor if any of these treatments can be used in your particular case. 
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Generally, naturopathic medicine is not used as a person&#39;s primary form of therapy. People frequently gravitate to naturopathic medicines when conventional or other supplementary therapies are ineffective. The benefits of naturopathy are numerous and diverse, and it is used to treat a wide range of illnesses, including<a href="#accordion">[2][3]</a>:

<ul>
	<li>Allergies</li>
	<li>Arthritis</li>
	<li>Depression</li>
	<li>Digestive issues</li>
	<li>Fertility issues</li>
	<li>Menstrual problems</li>
	<li>Headaches</li>
	<li>Skin conditions 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

A 2018 analysis discovered that naturopathic remedies helped manage issues that arise after procedures<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. For instance, acupuncture and acupressure help ease nausea and vomiting after operations. Additionally, music and aromatherapy can also lessen tension, anxiety, and discomfort. 
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The supplements used as part of naturopathy treatments can affect the effectiveness of conventional drugs. Some herbal treatments can have side effects, too.

<ul>
	<li>Supplements (Vitamins &amp; Herbal): Some of them conflict with prescription drugs. There&rsquo;s also a high risk of developing diseases like cancer. Too much vitamin B-6, in particular, can cause peripheral neuropathy.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Spinal Adjustments: The pressure applied to your spine as part of naturopathic therapy can harm bones, spinal discs, arteries, and nerves. It can also result in a stroke.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Detox Diets: These medical procedures aim to cleanse your body of toxins. They entail fasting or eliminating particular meals. That includes enduring extended stretches without eating. If you suffer from certain chronic diseases, such as diabetes, this might be problematic because you won&rsquo;t be obtaining enough essential nutrients. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Note: If you&#39;re considering naturopathy, inform your doctor. They can assess it better if the procedures are risk-free and do not conflict with any other medications you are taking. Do NOT discontinue or put off receiving conventional medical care because of naturopathic treatment without doctor&rsquo;s consultation. 
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Conclusion

Naturopathy combines traditional medicine with conventional healthcare to deal with the body on a natural level. Always consult a doctor before switching to or incorporating naturopathic treatment to treat a condition because certain therapies may interfere with your existing treatment. 
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Key Takeaways

<ul>
	<li>Hippocrates, a Greek physician, is credited with discovering naturopathic medicine, which is largely based on the idea of nature&#39;s healing power.</li>
	<li>In the world of allopathic medicine, naturopathy is a unique and varied healthcare system that accentuates the use of preemptive and natural therapeutics.</li>
	<li>It comprises therapies, such as massage, acupuncture, exercise, and nutritional counseling as well as natural resources present in the environment, like soil, water, and sunlight.</li>
	<li>Naturopathic medicine fundamentally investigates the relationship that exists between an individual&#39;s physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, to restore overall well-being and health.</li>
	<li>The effectiveness of conventional drugs may be hampered by the vitamins and herbal supplements used in naturopathy treatments. Some herbal treatments can have side effects or interfere with pharmaceutical drugs.</li>
</ul>
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[1] Steel A, Foley H, Bradley R, et al. Overview of international naturopathic practice and patient characteristics: Results from a cross-sectional study in 14 countries. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. 2020;20(1). doi:10.1186/s12906-020-2851-7