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Health Benefits of Naturopathy
ShareNaturopathy has many health benefits for the individual, and is based on the principle that the body can heal itself. It utilises methods which work with the body's inherent healing power, with the view that prevention is preferable to cure. Naturopaths use a range of gentle, holistic, non-invasive treatments that treat the underlying cause of illnesses. This may include nutrition, dietetics, herbal medicine, homoeopathy, massage and Bowen technique - amongst others. These are aimed at aiding the body to recover. Naturopathy treats you and your body as a holistic individual entity, and targets the symptoms of a condition or disease. This recognises that each person has unique emotional, physical and nutritional characteristics.
Naturopaths also do not turn to conventional medicine or drugs to treat a patient, and believe that the symptoms of any illness are evidence of the body trying to cure itself. Nutrition is central to naturopathy and typically advocates consumption of fruit and vegetables, the latter preferably in its raw state. In addition improved circulation and detoxification are advocated.
Naturopathy Benefits
Naturopathy has been used to treat a wide range of ailments and conditions, including:
- stomach complaints such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome
- food intolerances
- skin conditions such as acne and eczema
- respiratory problems including asthma and allergies
- fertility problems
- anxiety and depression
Holistic Assessment
Prior to advising on an individual's status a naturopath will conduct an evaluation of a client, including an examination of the individual's case history. This will typically encompass the following information:
- diet
- lifestyle and habits
- family background
- environment
- medical history of the illness or complaint
Naturopathy Tools
An individual treatment plan can then be designed and may include natural treatments as well as dietary and lifestyle changes. This is aimed at behavioural change as much as at relief of a specific condition or pain. Supplementary tests such as hair analysis testing may also be conducted to identify existing conditions or highlight any food allergies. This may include any of the following:
- nutrition and dietary advice is central to much of naturopathy, and will typically advocate fresh, unprocessed foods that will enhance body functioning
- physical therapy such as osteopathy, massage and chiropractics
- herbal medicine used in place of conventional drugs to treat specific conditions
- homeopathy treatments are used to support the immune system
- hydrotherapy or water therapy, is often used to treat specific muscular conditions
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