One of my first lessons as a naturopath was the naturopathic principles. These foundational principles underpin the practice of naturopathy and governs how we approaches each case, including the case taking process and developing treatment plans.
Primum Non Nocere – First, do no harm.
Naturopathic medicine works with the bodies vital force, not against it and utilises healing modalities which minimise negative side effects. In naturopathy, symptoms are considered part of the natural healing process, they’re the body telling us that something is wrong. Therefore methods which suppress symptoms without addressing the underlying cause are considered harmful.
Tolle Causam – Identify and treat the cause.
Symptoms generated as a result of illness are the body’s attempt to heal itself, however they are not what causes the disease. The cause of the disease is usually something that can’t be seen and requires investigation. Therefore, suppressing symptoms using ‘band-aid’ methods are considered harmful. A naturopath will look at potential physical, emotional and mental contributing factors when treating a patient. The patient will not fully recover from illness unless the underlying cause is identified and addressed.
Docere – The physician as teacher.
The naturopath’s most important role is to educate their patients about the principles of healthy living and preventive medicine. By doing so the aim is that the patient will take responsibility for their own health and wellness. The more the patient understands their condition and the methods of treatment the more involved they will become in the healing process.
Vis Mediatrix Naturae – The healing power of nature.
The body’s Vital Force is its natural wisdom and constantly strives to find balance and restore health. Naturopathy aims to facilitate and support this natural process by recognising and removing obstacles and by establishing a healthy environment for the body to thrive.
Tolle Totum – Treat the whole person.
Naturopathy recognises the complexity of disease and takes into consideration the physical, mental, energetic, emotional, genetic, environmental and social factors that may contribute to illness. By doing so, the practitioner can customise treatment protocols on an individual basis.
Prevention is better than cure.
Naturopathy recognises that preventing chronic disease is much easier and cost-effective than treating it. A practitioner will collaborate with the patient to assess risk factors and recommend appropriate interventions for health maintenance and prevention of illness.