Physicians Plus

Naturopathic medicine is a form of health care that bridges modern medicine with a natural perspective. Naturopathic doctors (ND's) look at diseases like any other physician would but what differs is our approach to the treatment.  ND's focus on an integrative approach to health care by understanding how the interrelated systems of the body function together.  Similar to any physician, comprehensive exams are done to help arrive at a diagnosis and with the combination of both modern science and holistic medicine a treatment plan is derived that encompasses education, prevention, proactive care and immediate treatment to help maintain and restore optimal health.

Naturopathic doctors maintain a strong relationship with each patients primary care physician and specialist assuring that the best care is given and all parties are aware of progress.

First Do No Harm

• Use of medicines that reduce the risk of side effects
• Use least force necessary to diagnose and treat
• Respect the self-healing process

Identify and Treat the Causes

• Identify and treat the underlying cause of disease, rather then just treating the symptoms, move the body towards an optimal state of health

Treat the Whole Person

• In addition to treating the presenting complaint or illness, Naturopathic doctors view the whole picture.  The physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, social, sexual and spiritual aspects of health are considered in each treatment allowing care to be tailored specifically for the patient.

Doctor as Teacher

• Naturopathic doctors believe that we act as both physicians and educators.  This is why we teach and encourage patients on how to care for themselves and take responsibility in optimizing their health. 

Emphasize Prevention

• Preventative medicine helps to save money, pain, misery and lives.  Naturopathic doctors emphasize prevention of disease by assessing risk factors, heredity and susceptibility to disease in each patient.  Wellness care reduces the risk of future illness.

Support the Healing Power of the Body

• Naturopathic medicine believes our bodies have an ordered and intelligent self-healing instinct that is inherent to every individual.  Naturopaths work to find and remove obstacles that affect this instinct then facilitate the the natural self-healing process.

Botanical medicine is the use of herbal remedies to help human ailments.  Each botanical contains various constituents that provide an effect on the body similar to pharmaceuticals.  The main difference between pharmaceuticals and botanical medicine is that herbs are natural and not synthesized in a laboratory.  Botanical remedies can be used to help treat almost any condition, from diabetes, autoimmunity, common cold to pain.  Although botanical remedies cannot substitute for your prescribed medications, they can be applied as an adjunct with other therapies and if diagnosed early can be the primary treatment option.  Before starting any botanical treatments, make sure to speak with a naturopath or primary care physician to determine if that course of treatment is right for you.