Naturopathy Matthew Leach
Outline • Definition • History • Philosophy • Comparison to orthodox medicine • The Naturopath • Conditions • Expectations • Locating a naturopath
What is Naturopathy? “naturopathy is an eclectic field of medicine that promotes physical, psychological and social health and wellbeing through a myriad of natural treatment approaches”
Principles of Naturopathy • Facilitate the healing power of nature • Do no harm • Identify and treat the cause • Treat the whole person • Prevent disease and ill health • Establish health and wellness • The practitioner is a teacher
History of Naturopathy • Hippocrates • Kneipp • Rickli • Thomson • Hahnemann • McFadden • Graham • Lust • Medical dominance
Comparing naturopathic & orthodox medicine • Treatment approach • Disease philosophy • Treatment action • Practitioner relationship • Assessment • Consultation • Safety
What is a Naturopath? “A Naturopath is a health care professional who treats a wide range of individuals with acute and chronic health conditions, by applying an array of treatment approaches based on the principles of naturopathic medicine.”
Who might benefit from a naturopathic consultation? • Chronic conditions: arthritis; Irritable bowel • • • • •
syndrome; osteoporosis; eczema; psoriasis; period pain; hypertension; oesophageal reflux; asthma Acute conditions: colds; influenza; sinusitis; ear infections; urinary tract infections Prevention: preconception care; stress/lifestyle/diet management General wellbeing When orthodox medicine fails When alternatives to orthodox treatments are sought
What can I expect from a Naturopathic consultation? • Assessment • Diet and nutrition management • Lifestyle management • Herbal medicine • Homeopathy • Tactile therapies
Where can I find a Naturopath? • Professional associations: ATMS, ANTA, ANPA, CMA
– Australian Traditional Medicine Society http://www.atms.com.au – Australian Natural Therapists Association http://www.anta.com.au
• Yellow pages
Where can I find more information about Naturopathy?
• MIMS consumer health group
http:// www.mydr.com.au/default.asp?article =2464 • Australian Naturopathic Network http:// www.ann.com.au/subindex_naturopat hy.htm
Naturopathy Matthew Leach Email:
[email protected] Telephone: 8302 2071
