What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Founded upon a holistic philosophy, Naturopathic Medicine combines safe and effective traditional therapies with the most current advances in modern medicine.  The word “naturopathy” was first used in the U.S. 100 years ago.  But the natural therapies and the philosophy on which Naturopathy is based have been effectively used to treat diseases since ancient times.  Hippocrates, a physician who lived 2400 years ago, is often considered the earliest predecessor of Naturopathic physicians, particularly in terms of his teaching that “nature is healer of all diseases”.
Naturopathic physicians (N.D.’s) are the highest trained practitioners in the broadest scope of Naturopathic Medical Modalities.  Arizona is one of the first states to license Naturopathic physicians and has an accredited Naturopathic College (Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine).  In addition to the basic medical sciences and conventional diagnostics, naturopathic education includes therapeutic nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, natural childbirth, classical Chinese medicine, hydrotherapy, naturopathic manipulative therapy, pharmacology and minor surgery.

The Naturopathic Oath is:

• First of all, to do no harm
• To act in cooperation with the Healing Power of Nature
• To address the fundamental causes of disease
• To heal the whole person through individualized treatment
• To teach the principles of healthy living and preventive medicine