Offered by: Meghan Bauer

WHAT IS NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE?

Modern naturopathic medicine has its roots in nature cure, a system for treating disease with natural agents, which was popularized in the 19th century. Naturopathic medicine is based on the principle that the body has the natural ability to heal itself. It is a unique and comprehensive approach to improving health and treating illness. The role of a naturopathic doctor is to address the person as a whole, to identify and treat the cause of an illness or disease (rather than just suppressing the symptoms), and to educate an individual on the aspects of disease prevention and health enhancement.

Treatment methods that a naturopathic doctor would use depend on the patient's condition and personal preference, but can include one or more of the following:

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine:
Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and dietary and lifestyle changes are used to stimulate healthy functioning of your organs, tissues, and cells, and to promote smooth energy (Qi) flow.

Botanical (herbal) Medicine:
Plant-based remedies are used for their powerful healing effects, nutritional value, and general enhancing abilities.

Clinical Nutrition:
Proper nutrition is a fundamental basis for achieving and maintaining optimal health. After all, as the saying goes, you are what you eat! An in-depth analysis of your diet will assist your naturopath to suggest dietary improvements as well as nutritional supplements (when necessary) in order to address deficiencies, promote health, and treat disease.

Homeopathic Medicine:
Based on the philosophy that "like cures like"; homeopathy uses specially prepared micro-doses of plant, animal, or mineral substances in order to stimulate the body's ability to heal itself. Homeopathy not only works on the physical sphere, but also the mental and emotional aspects of a person as well.

CrainoSacral Therapy and Other Hands-on Techniques:
Gentle, hands-on techniques that can work on musculoskeletal problems, migraines, fatigue, and removal of accumulated extracellular toxins to help the patient achieve an overall sense of balance and well-being.

Hydrotherapy:
The use of hot and cold water to enhance the body's ability to heal itself by stimulating the individual's immune system and circulation.

Prevention and Lifestyle Counselling:
Lifestyle, diet, and environmental risk factors are identified and programs are created to help you develop healthy everyday habits.

What kinds of health conditions can benefit from Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic Medicine can be used to treat any condition or complaint for which you would visit your Medical Doctor (MD.)

Naturopathic Medicine can benefit a wide range of health conditions, whether acute or chronic. Although it is very effective in treating long-term, chronic illnesses, it can also help in cases of injury and other acute situations.

Naturopathic Medicine is gentle and safe enough to be used by people of all ages, in varying degrees of health.

Some of the conditions that respond well to naturopathic medicine include:

Chronic illnesses
Asthma and allergies
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Fibromyalgia
Arthritis
Hypertension, Atherosclerosis, Hypercholesterolemia and other cardiovascular problems
Digestive disturbances: Constipation, Diarrhea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis
Skin conditions: Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis
Immune dysfunctions
Endocrine disorders: Hypo/hyperthyroid, adrenal fatigue
Acute conditions
Colds, coughs, flu
Ear and throat infections
Headaches/migraines
Recovery from injury or trauma
Women's Health Concerns
Menopause/perimenopause
Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS)
Menstrual problems (dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, menorrhagia, etc.)
Fibrocystic breast disease
Infertility
Pregnancy health
Endometriosis, uterine fibroids
Other
Anxiety, depression
Stress
Insomnia
Attention deficit disorder (ADD)
Hyperactivity
Smoking cessation
Weight management

What can you expect from a Naturopathic visit?

Your first visit will be approximately 1 ½ hours long and will include a thorough discussion of your medical history and health concerns. If necessary, a physical exam will be performed. The first visit is essentially an information-gathering session. A second visit is usually scheduled one week after the initial visit to discuss and begin the complete treatment program. This allows the doctor to thoroughly assess the case and to give it the special attention that it requires, in order to allow for a more accurate and personalized prescription to help facilitate your healing process. Follow-up visits are usually booked every 4-6 weeks in the beginning in order to assess your progress and less frequently as you start to feel better and learn how to manage your health.

Is Naturopathic Medicine covered under extended health care plans?

Yes, many extended health care insurance plans offer partial or full coverage for naturopathic visits. To determine if you have coverage under naturopathic medicine, please contact your health insurance company or refer to the policy handbook.

If you would like more information or to book an appointment please call 416-926-8794 or e-mail us: info@sageclinic.ca