What is it? Episode 1: Naturopathy

Naturopathy or Naturopathic medicine is a form of alternative medicine utilising a wide range of “natural approaches including herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, acupuncture and lifestyle changes.

The word “naturopathy” came from “natura” (Latin for birth) and “pathos” (Greek for suffering) to mean Natural Healing.  In 400BC the ancient Greek Hippocrates “Father of medicine” became the first promoter of Naturopathy. It has since evolved over centuries of traditional medicine.

Naturopaths use a holistic path, avoiding the use of modern medicine and surgery. It grew out of Europe in 1901 but saw a decline after the 1930’s due to the popularity of modern medicine.

The practice of Naturopathy is based on the opinions that the body has the ability to heal itself using the power of nature.  Cures involve exposure to sunshine, fresh air, hot and cold compresses and nutrition advice. The aim is to prevent illness through stress reduction and changes to diet and lifestyle.

The first step in the process is a consultation with a lengthy discussion about diet, the home/work life balance, medical history and a physical examination may be required.

A Naturopath would work together with a person to help educate and develop an understanding of prevention of illness using the underlying principles of a healthy diet, clean and fresh water, sunlight, exercise and stress management.

• A poor diet stops the body from functioning correctly due to a build-up of toxins- whole, fresh, unprocessed foods and fresh water will flush the body of these toxins and support the body’s capacity to heal.
• Sunlight will increase serotonin and vitamin D levels helping to combat depression and skin/bone conditions.
• Physical exercise will normalize your glucose, insulin and leptin levels, which help to optimize your overall health.
• Meditation and relaxation exercises will reduce stress and allow the body to function normally.

Stimulating, nourishing and balancing the body this way would help prevent illness.

Naturopathic treatment could also include botanical medicines, vitamins, minerals, allergy treatments and Homeopathy. Physical medicine may be administered using massage and hydrotherapy to manipulate and influence the blood flow throughout the body.

Naturopathy is suited to anyone at any age and supports the whole person to lead a healthy lifestyle while letting the body heal itself without the adverse effects of modern medicine. Although it’s not used for any specific illness of disease, Naturopathy can help to treat a multitude of ailments including anxiety, digestion or food intolerances, insomnia and health problems that stem from these conditions. It is a complementary therapy and can be used alongside other medical treatments.