The Principles of naturopathic medicine form the foundation upon which the naturopathic physician develops the treatment plan to restore health and maintain wellness. Those important principles are:
The Healing Power of Nature: "Vis Medicatrix Naturae"
Naturopathic Medicine understands that the body has the inherent ability to heal itself. The physician, by helping to remove the obstacles to healing, facilitates this self-healing.
Identify and Treat the Cause "Tolle Causam"
Symptoms are manifestations of illness -- not the cause. Symptoms can return. By finding and treating the cause, naturopathic medicine helps you reach your best health.
Above All, Do No Harm "Primum No Nocere"
For optimum diagnosis and treatment naturopathic physicians utilize both science and nature. The most efficacious protocols that minimize risks of suppression and harmful side-effects are incorporated.
Treat The Whole Person. "Tolle Totum"
In naturopathic medicine the disease is not the focus. All that affects the person can affect his/her health. Naturopathic physicians, in assessing the underlying causes, work to restore health and a sense of well being to the whole person.
Doctor As Teacher "Docere"
The naturopathic physician's ultimate goals are to help patient's understand his/her health challenges and then learn how best to reach and maintain consistent wellness.
Prevention
In helping the patient understand his/her own body (inherited risk factors, proclivities, environment, etc.) the naturopathic physician can provide the patient with tools to maintain optimum health and avoid preventable conditions.