The 6 Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

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1. The healing power of nature - The body has the innate ability to restore and maintain health. The doctor’s role is to enhance this process as well as identify and remove obstacles to healing.

2. Identify and treat the cause - Underlying causes of disease must be removed or treated in order to heal. Naturopathic medicine considers physical, mental-emotional and spiritual causes.

3. First do no harm - Naturopathic physicians use the least force necessary to diagnose and treat while minimizing the risk of harmful side effects. Treatment should support the body’s innate healing process and if possible, symptoms should not be suppressed.

4. Treat the whole person - The harmonious functioning of all parts of the individual is essential and requires a comprehensive and personalized approach to diagnosis and treatment.

5. The physician as teacher - in addition to an accurate diagnosis and appropriate prescription, the physician’s role is to educate and empower the patient to take responsibility for their own health.

6. Prevention – The ultimate goal of naturopathic medicine is prevention. This is accomplished through education and promotion of lifestyle habits that foster good health.