An Overview of Naturopathic Medicine
By Dr. Chrysalis Yashpal Jayne, ND
Naturopathic Medicine is recognized in 14 States as primary care physicians. Some form of “naturopathy” is practiced in every state and likely every country. How do I know this? Because many healers, shamans, medicine men and women, herbalists, homeopaths, chiropractors, acupuncturists, veterinarians and unrecognized others help people and other beings access their healing. Simply put – that is naturopathy.
Naturopathic Medicine is a profession and license in the USA, the ND or NMD. In some way, licensure brings credibility to natural medicine and standards for potential clients. Naturopaths tend to individualize the care of their clients. Naturopathic physicians also individualize their practices. In school we had the opportunity to specialize in certain areas. Later in this article, I will give an overview of my practice.
Actually, years ago, the profession defined unifying principles of Naturopathic Medicine that regardless of our styles of practice, we could all embrace. There are six principles that we agreed on:
Vis Medicatrix Naturae - The Healing Power of Nature
Honoring the inherent intelligence of nature to provide self-healing.
Tolle Causam - Identify and treat the causes
Seeks to identify and remove the underlying causes of illness rather than to merely eliminate or suppress symptoms.
Primum Non Nocere - First Do No Harm
Utilizing methods and medicinal substances which minimize the risk of harmful side-effects
Avoiding, when possible, the harmful suppression of symptoms.
Acknowledging the individual’s self-healing process.
Docere - Doctor as Teacher
Educating clients and teaching self-responsibility and lifestyle shifts for greater health.
Recognizing the therapeutic potential of the doctor/patient relationship.
Treat the Whole Person
In addition to treating symptoms, an individual’s physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, social, spiritual, and other health factors are assessed and treated.
Prevention
Working with clients to assess and correct underlying issues:
Toxicities, deficiencies and dietary and lifestyle choices that lead to dis-ease, including hereditary and constitutional factors.
If you would like to see how I put this to practice click here for an overview of the styles of practice I offer at my clinic in Port Townsend, the Integrated Natural Health Center (INHC).
