Naturopathic Doctors

The doctor of the future will give no medicine but will instruct his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease.
- Thomas Edison

Natural therapies are an increasingly popular alternative to the harsh chemicals of mainstream medicine. One of the most important steps when treating yourself naturally is to enlist the care of an educated holistic doctor. A profession that has been getting more press lately is the Naturopathic physician. These professionals go to four-year, government accredited medical schools that focus on natural therapies. They participate in clinical rotations and residencies, and have the credentials of National Medical Boards and state licensure.

There are four accredited naturopathic schools in the United States:
· Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine
· Bastyr University
· National College of Natural Medicine
· The University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine


One of the main principles of naturopathic medicine is to treat the whole person, not the symptoms of disease. For example, the manifestation of swollen joints in a body can be caused by numerous reasons. Giving medication to suppress the swelling provides relief of symptoms. However, Naturopathic doctors are dedicated to finding the unique underlying cause of swelling in the body, and then correcting the imbalance so that the body can heal itself.

This unique health care system utilizes natural therapies that are safe, effective and non-evasive. NDs may use a single healing modality such as homeopathy, or a combination of therapies such as nutrition, herbs, hydrotherpathy, and physical medicine. In addition to natural therapies, NDs also utilize lab and diagnostic testing to get a complete biological picture.

For more information about accredited Naturopathic Medical Schools in North America, please visit the AANMC (Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges).