10 Therapeutic Methods of Naturopathy

As the name suggests, naturopathy concerns all things natural. It is more than just a method of treatment, it can also be viewed as a way of life. The origins of naturopathy go as far back as Hippocrates who is viewed as the "father of medicine". His view was that any therapy administered should not create any further burdens to an already weakened system. That is "no harm should be done".

Treatments using naturopathy can be undertaken using a wide range of therapies. They are so wide ranging that people often specialize in just one of them. This hub outlines 10 therapeutic methods of naturopathy.

This involves using vitamin and mineral supplements to remedy a deficiency in the body that may be contributing to a certain disease. For healthy people, going on a naturopathic diet involves eating as many wholefoods as possible. That is, eating foods that are as close to their natural state and unrefined as possible.

To get rid of toxins in the body, fasting for short periods of time or being placed on a controlled diet is often recommended.

This is important no matter what kind of therapeutic methods you choose. Reducing or controlling stress to acceptable levels ensures that it has minimal potential to manifest as a disease or aggravating an existing condition, like the skin condition psoriasis.

Sometimes water used in healing. Drinking more water, in itself, is extremely beneficial. It keeps your organs functioning well and also keeps your skin supple. Sometimes, water can also be used in therapies such as colonic irrigation to flush out systems. Swimming is regarded as one of the greatest exercises for the body.

Plants and plant derivatives have been used for healing for many years. Certain herbs are beneficial for particular conditions.

Homeopathy works on the idea that "like cures like". In this Law of Similarity, any treatments used must be able to induce symptoms in a healthy person similar to those of the disease being treated. These "treatments" are usually trace amounts of natural substances. If it fails to heal, the idea is that it doesn't do any further harm.

Physical therapies can typically include massage, osteopathy and chiropractice.

Iridology is usually used as a diagnostic tool.

Relaxation techniques, changes in environment and perhaps hypnotherapy are used in counselling and lifestyle alterations that relieve problems that are psychologically, behaviorally or emotionally based.

Chinese medicine and other "oriental therapies" such as acupuncture, shiatsu and yoga are also used in naturopathy.

Regular exercise is a must and is recommended by doctors and naturopaths alike in order to maintain a healthy mind and body. The benefits of exercise are well documented. Sometimes, following trauma, particular exercises are required for rehabiliation and to regain lost strength in muscles.