The term “Naturopathy” was coined by the Catholic priest, Benedict Lust (1872-1945). Born in Germany, Lust contracted a nearly fatal case of tuberculosis. He sought out the help of Father Kneipp and his natural cures. With extraordinary results, Lust traveled to America in 1896 and began touting the wonders of natural health. It was then that he termed Naturopathy. In actuality, Naturopathic Medicine has been practiced since the beginning of man-kind. Every culture and nationality has implored it in some way. Simply put, Naturopathy is the use of nature’s own forces to restore health. Fresh water, adequate rest, sunlight, and a clean environment are some of its most basic forms. Over time, many specialized practices have emerged ex: Herbology, Homeopathy, Reflexology, Massage, etc. . .

Naturopathy is guided by several principals:

1. The foundation of Naturopathy is “first do no harm” or premum no nocere. Although no one can predict exactly how each person’s body will respond, a Naturopath will seek to use the safest therapy applicable. Sometimes a side effect will occur as a positive result. For instance, if you were to quit smoking you may have increased anxiety and discomfort. That reaction would still be a step towards better health.

2. Nature is a healing force itself (vis medicatrix naturae) It is believed that the human body can heal itself from almost anything, when given the proper support.

3. Work with the cause (tolle causam) one must use the symptoms to guide you to the root cause of the illness so as not to treat only the symptoms and ignore the underlying condition.

4. Prevention is Always the Best Cure

Natural health is enjoying a surge of interest these days. This is due to its success in treating so many of the chronic illnesses that plague our era. Modernized Western medicine has failed to bring relief. It has become exuberantly priced and often the treatment is far worse than the afflicting disease. It has also forgotten how to treat the whole person. Each of us are unique individuals. What works for the masses may not work for you.

It is critical to seek out guidance when dealing with health challenges. Naturopaths listen to all the signs a person is giving them and work to make a wellness plan that includes all spectrums of health. While prevention of illness is Naturopathy’s shining star, it has many strengths. Its holistic approach allows you to see one practitioner for a multitude of issues.

For example, if you were to go to a M.D. for digestive complaints and anxiety he may give you a prescription for upset stomach and refer you to a psychologist. A naturopath would be keenly aware of how emotions effect the gut. They might then educate you on an herbal remedy that is successful with anxiety and GI disorders such as chamomile or catnip. You might then be instructed on life balancing skills and deep breathing exercises that would relieve the anxiety.

When you see a Naturopathic Doctor or use natures means to heal your self, your are doing more than treating the present sickness. You are learning a lifelong lesson in how your body functions. These are tools you can rely on for a lifetime.

Herbal Therapy
Herbology is the use of plants and plant parts to improve health. Herbs are much more than their chemical components. They are dynamic beings that have been involved along side man since the beginning of time. Science has validated what herbalist have known and practiced for ages. Herbs have the ability to restore health and ease dis-ease. They work with your body’s systems to create balance. Herbs have an innate affinity for one another. Their effects are wide reaching and lasting.

These special plants are already familiar to the human body. When you take them, they have a synergistic effect. This means they work in harmony with one another (as in a multi-herb formula) and adapt to your specific needs. Often the correct herbs is really a plant food. Such is the case with maca, which is valued in its native country for nutritional value and energetic properties. Herbs gently sway our bodies back into equilibrium. In contrast, drugs pound down symptoms like a sledge hammer and drive the disease onto deeper levels. We only have to visit a local herb garden to remember how rooted we all are in this ancient art of wellness.

Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of plant fragrance as a health treatment. You only have to experience the smell of lilac bushes or magnolias, on a warm afternoon, to realize the tremendous effects it can have. Aromatherapy can aid in a variety of physical ailments like respiratory infections, sinusitis, fatigue, insomnia, irritated skin and wounds, and joint and muscle pain. It is also beneficial with mental and emotional issues as in depression, grieve, anger, and anxiety. One scent can be used to increase mental acuity and awareness and another can calm and relax. Essential oils are the extremely potent plant substance used in aromatherapy. These oils can be added to beauty products, massage oils, and vaporizers. Aromatherapy is safe, gentle and a welcomed relief from a pill oriented society.

Homeopathy
Homeopathy was developed by a German physician, Samuel Hahnemann, in the 1800s. Hahnemann called Homeopathy the “Rational Healing Art.” It involves extensive observation of a persons symptoms. A Homeopath develops an overall picture of a persons constitution, or makeup, and matches the person to a remedy. Emotional characteristics and body type are all taken into consideration. Homeopathic remedies are dilutions of plants, minerals, and other matter. The minute doses used make is very gentle and have no known side effects. Even children and the elderly may take them. Homeopathic doctors have been very successful over the years. They have created a massive pharmacy of remedies, extensive research, and proving. Homeopathy is one way of stimulating the body’s own healing forces.

Mind/Body Immunity
One of my specialties is helping others maintain maximum mind/body immunity. In modern health fields, the idea of increasing one’s immunity has been rather elusive. Most experts agree this is the number one way to great health. I help you outline practical steps to achieve this. I have a solid understanding of how the immune system functions. The immune system is a very complex and fascinating defense mechanism. It is the ultimate in preventive medicine. With a strong immune system you can avoid a variety of bacteria, viruses, and other invading organisms. You NEVER HAVE to get “what’s going around” again. A whole host of disease are linked to failing immunity-cancer, arthritis, chronic fatigue, candida, mononucleosis, re-occurring respiratory, ear, and sinus infections, IBS, allergies, diabetes, hormone imbalances, etc. . . Get Your Consultation Now!