JOURNAL 41: What is naturopathy?
noun 1. a system of treating disease and disorders in humans based on promoting the body’s own natural defences, especially by use of herbs, natural foods, massage, exercise and sunlight. (Macquarie Dictionary Online)
Naturopathy is an evidence-based approach to wellness which uses the healing power of nature to promote the body’s ability to repair itself.
Let’s break that down.
Evidence-based approach
Naturopathy uses an evidence-based approach which incorporates scientific evidence as well as traditional evidence.
Three elements are combined in an evidence-based approach: the best available research, clinical expertise and patient values. Research includes reviews, randomised control trials, best practice and clinical practice. Clinical expertise involves using practical skills, knowledge and experience to make judgements and decisions. Patient values means their preferences, beliefs, cultural and social sensitivities and priorities.
Naturopathy incorporates research, clinical expertise and patient values to provide a truly evidence-based approach.
Healing power of nature
Nature offers us everything we need to survive and thrive. Through space, air, fire, water and earth we have access to all the elements that are crucial to our wellbeing. Combine these elements with the awakening of our five senses which comes from spending time in nature and you have the ultimate balance between body and mind – the perfect recipe for promotion of healing.
Naturopathy utilises the healing power of nature to promote optimal health and wellness.
Body’s ability to repair itself
One of the body’s most important functions is its ability to self-heal – it just needs the right conditions. When you provide your body with what it needs, it will work to maintain optimal functioning. And what it needs is a wholesome diet, a beneficial environment, exercise and positive mental health. This ability is only limited by genetics and unhealthy factors to which the body may have been subjected.
Naturopathy works to provide the best conditions possible to enable the body’s ability to repair itself.
Now that you know what naturopathy is, let’s explore the role of a naturopath.
What is a naturopath
noun. A practitioner of naturopathic medicine.
A naturopath is a qualified practitioner who uses their extensive knowledge and experience to treat a wide variety of conditions, diseases and illnesses.
Here’s a breakdown of what that means.
Qualified practitioner
Naturopaths typically hold a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy). The degree includes qualifications in Human Biological Science, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Pharmacology and Clinical Science, Herbal Medicine, Psychology and Counselling, Medicinal Food Science and Clinical Examination and Skills, to name a few of the subjects studied.
Naturopaths are qualified practitioners who have undergone years of study in their field.
Extensive knowledge and experience
Many naturopaths have undertaken further study to expand their knowledge into specialist areas including chronic conditions, fertility, paediatric care, microbiome, genetics and mental health, as well as attending industry-specific professional development and training, adding to the broad range of areas of expertise and the depth of their knowledge. Their vast experience comes from treating numerous conditions across a wide range of patients in clinical practice from infants to the elderly. Additionally, naturopaths are generally registered with their respective association and operate under strict standards of practice.
Naturopaths bring extensive knowledge and experience to their daily practice.
Conditions, diseases and illnesses
Naturopaths apply their skills and experience to treating a wide variety of conditions including stress, anxiety and depression, chronic fatigue, SIBO and IBS, women’s health and hormones, food allergies and intolerances, men’s health, autoimmune disease, thyroid conditions, children’s health, gut disorders, skin conditions and more. Given their role is to restore the body to optimal wellness, naturopaths will explore the source of the condition, disease or illness and treat the cause of the issue. However, naturopaths go beyond the presenting conditions and also work to boost the body’s natural ability to self-heal by treating the whole person, restoring balance to the body’s systems and preventing illness. Prevention is a high priority of a naturopath. Ongoing treatment in prevention includes dietary and lifestyle advice and education, together with exercise and spending time in nature.
Naturopaths treat a wide variety of conditions, diseases and illnesses as well as promoting self-healing, restoring harmony and preventing conditions.
So, that briefly explains what naturopathy is and the role of the naturopath. It’s now time to look specifically at Kismet Health!
Why choose Kismet Health
While the above is an overview of naturopathy and naturopaths, it is important for you to know the difference of working with Kismet Health.
The primary focus at Kismet is to provide the best in health care to our patients. Our treatment is of the highest quality—we have been recognised and awarded for our work with our patients. We deliver holistic, individualised, whole-of-person care using the most up-to-date knowledge and premium quality products.
The team at Kismet are innovative, progressive and dedicated professionals. All our practitioners hold a university degree and are registered with the relevant association. Each practitioner has undertaken additional study and professional development to ensure they remain at the forefront of their field. They bring a diverse and unique set of skills to Kismet and work collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes. Our practitioners take their work very seriously, work within their skill set and have a deep care for their patients.
Kismet practitioners are qualified, experienced and committed professionals who are known for their excellent care and work with their patients. And that’s why you should choose Kismet Health!
