"The first requisite of restoring health is the removal of the causes of impairment of health. Cause is multiple and never singular" Herbert Shelton
Naturopathy is a system of medicine which seeks to promote positive health by removing obstructions to vitality, while supporting the body's inherent self-healing tendency. Nature is astonishingly resilient. The living organism possesses an inherent tendency to revert to the normal, and to overcome adversity, injury or disease. This complex biological process is known as healing. The healing power of nature is ordered, intelligent and virtually miraculous, provided that it can occur unobstructed. Naturopaths look for the potential for health, finding supportive measures towards the well-being of the patient.
Diagnosis: The primary rule of naturopathy - treat the patient not the disease
Diagnosis, in the medical context, is of secondary importance to the naturopath, since naturopathic practitioners are not overly-concerned with the giving of Greek names to complaints, or with their specific, symptomatic treatment. Diseases are not recognised as distinct entities by the naturopath, but are regarded as the outcome of deeper and wider imbalances. These imbalances can only be rectified by understanding their origin.
 Assessment
An overall assessment of the person's general health and vitality is made during the initial consultation. An extensive case history is taken, mainly through the standard questionnaire. Non-invasive laboratory testing for mineral status, allergies and adrenal function may be advised. When the practitioner has a full clinical picture, they can recommend the appropriate action, which should ideally be non-toxic, non-invasive and non-suppressive in its effects.
Clinical nutrition: the naturopathic approach: The aim of clinical nutrition is the recommendation of a diet based on the genetic "type" of the patient, also taking into account lifestyle stresses which impact their basic physiology, and require specific support. The regimes recommended contain organically-grown wholefoods, the use of remedial diets, fasting, digestive and liver support, herbal medicines, nutritional supplements etc.
Consultation
A great part of naturopathic work is educational and the person is encouraged to adopt a moderate, self-disciplined attitude towards their lifestyle, and to cultivate a wholesome interest in matters of health and environment. Naturopathy is demanding of the patient, emphasising as it does, that there are no shorts cuts to optimum well-being and that good health cannot be got on prescription or bought from a therapist. Naturopathic treatment requires patience, commitment and perseverance. Chronic illness and disease take many years to develop and their reversal is slow. As the treatment is non-suppressive, the patient may initially experience an exacerbation of symptoms. Therefore an understanding of the basic concepts, intelligent application of treatment regimen and a willingness to participate in the miracle of self-healing are qualities that the naturopath seeks to address and nurture in his patient.
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