As naturopathic medicine is new to California, many in the state are unfamiliar with what naturopathic medicine is and what a naturopathic doctor is. License was granted to Naturopathic doctors in 2004, much later than other states. Oregon has had licensed naturopathic doctors since the 1950s. Most of the Western United States now licenses naturopathic doctors.
All naturopathic doctors hold a four-year undergraduate degree as well as an additional four-year doctorate degree. Naturopathic doctors learn the standard medical curriculum of anatomy, physiology, pathology, microbiology, immunology, clinical and physical diagnosis, laboratory diagnosis, cardiology, gastroenterology, gynecology, pharmacology, etc. In addition, naturopathic doctors receive training in clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, hydrotherapy, naturopathic manipulative therapy, psychology, and counseling.
They must complete at least two years of hands-on clinical training and pass two sets of national boards (board certified). Naturopathic doctors are trained to diagnose, treat or refer to specialists when necessary, much like your traditional primary care provider.
Not all naturopathic doctors are alike. Like regular medical doctors, each naturopathic doctor has their own area of expertise and preferred treatment modalities.
You can find more information here: https://aanmc.org/naturopathic-medicine/.
At San Jose Integrative Medicine, we follow the 6 principles of naturopathic medicine.
What Are The Six Principles of Naturopathic Medicine?
- First, Do No Harm
Utilize the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies. - The Healing Power of Nature
Trust in the body’s inherent wisdom to heal itself. - Identify and Treat the Causes
Look beyond the symptoms to the underlying cause. - Doctor as Teacher
Educate patients in the steps to achieving and maintaining health. - Treat the Whole Person
View the body as an integrated whole in all its physical and spiritual dimensions. - Prevention
Focus on overall health, wellness and disease prevention.