Naturopathic Medicine
What is Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic medicine is a patient-centered healthcare approach that seeks to identify and treat the underlying cause of diseases by investigating all aspects that contribute to health (physically, mentally and emotionally) and supporting the body's natural healing process. Naturopathic doctors (ND) are able to provide primary care that aims to provide individualized treatments using a variety of approaches including lifestyle, natural products in the form of supplements and herbal medicine, acupuncture, intravenous therapies, and appropriate diagnostic testing. Naturopathic doctors in BC receive extensive training, requiring at least three or four years of pre-medical education at a university, four years of post-graduate training at an accredited naturopathic medical school, and completion of provincial and international licensing exams.
Herbal Medicine
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Herbal medicine involves using plants/herbs in the form of teas or tinctures to prevent and treat illnesses. Herbs have been used as medicine for centuries and have contributed significantly to the development of modern pharmaceutical drugs. Using the whole herb allows for the thousands of chemical compounds to work synergistically resulting in multiple medicinal benefits with fewer side effects. Using herbs as medicine allows the practitioner to create a specific formula to address an individual's unique health needs.
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Supplements
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Nutrient supplements are dietary products that provide essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts and amino acids in concentrated form. They offer numerous benefits for those who may not be getting enough essential nutrients from their diet alone. Not all supplements are created equal, and it's important to choose a high-quality supplement from a reliable source to ensure consistent dosing and purity of the product.
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Intravenous Nutrient Therapy and Injections
- Intravenous (IV) therapy and injections of vitamins and minerals provide a safe and efficient method of delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream. This method of parenteral therapy allows for nearly 100% absorption, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and liver.
- IV therapy is advantageous for individuals with compromised intestinal absorption (i.e. cancer, Crohn’s, IBS, ulcerative colitis, etc) as it allows for the delivery of nutrients in their entirety. This therapy can also be highly effective for individuals experiencing acute or chronic health issues, as well as for those seeking to improve their mental health.
- Intramuscular and subcutaneous injections of nutrients, such as B12, Vitamin D and folic acid, offer a time-release delivery system and higher absorption rates.
- For healthy individuals seeking to maintain their health and improve their longevity, these therapies offer high concentrations of potent antioxidants to combat oxidative stress which which is a indicator of premature aging, degenerative diseases and pre-cancerous states.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It is believed to promote the flow of energy, or Qi, and stimulate the body's natural healing processes. Acupuncture has been shown to provide relief for a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, anxiety, and depression. It may also help with digestion, sleep, and overall stress management.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger point therapy was first developed in Germany, where a solution containing a local anesthetic such as lidocaine or procaine, mixed with saline, is injected directly into or near affected structures. It is based on the idea that the body's nerves are interconnected and that disturbances in one part of the body can affect other areas. This technique aims to repair dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system by "rebooting" the nervous system, thus relieving pain, inflammation, and dysfunction. Trigger point therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, nerve pain due to scar tissue impingement, back and neck pain, and headaches.
~Disclaimer~
**Please note that the information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions regarding naturopathic modalities, we recommend that you discuss them with your licensed naturopathic doctor.
**Although supplements and medicinal herbs are often viewed as natural and safer alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs, they are still considered medicine. Please consulted with a physician to ensure appropriate dosing, frequency and avoidance of any drug interactions.
**Although supplements and medicinal herbs are often viewed as natural and safer alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs, they are still considered medicine. Please consulted with a physician to ensure appropriate dosing, frequency and avoidance of any drug interactions.