What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Utilizing both natural therapies and modern tools, naturopathic medicine is a profoundly effective form of medicine for people of all ages. It is a medicine that identifies and treats the underlying cause of illnesses. It encompasses prevention, diagnosis and treatment of illnesses on physical, mental, and emotional levels. It removes obstacles to healing and supports the natural healing processes of the individual patient. It is a potent combination of art and science.
In New Hampshire, naturopathic doctors (NDs), are licensed after completing naturopathic medical school and passing rigorous board exams. Trained to provide primary care, NDs offer a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic tools.
For further information on the philosophy and therapies utilized in naturopathic medicine, see below.

Nutritional Medicine
Based on the foundational philosophy of “food as medicine”, naturopathic medicine offers various dietary recommendations, protocols, and nutritional supplements based on an individual’s needs and current scientific research.

Preventative Medicine
Analyzing various health factors for an individual such as diet, movement, stress and family history to create a therapeutic protocol to prevent disease and promote wellness.

Physical Medicine
NDs are trained in physical manipulations of the muscles, skeletal system and connective tissue to correct misalignments and reduce/remove pain and immobility. This also includes the use of massage, exercise, ultrasound, and water based therapies.

Botanical (Herbal) Medicine
NDs are extensively trained in the medicinal use of herbs and plants, both the traditional uses and those supported by modern science. Naturopathic doctors are the only experts in the safe and proper use of botanical remedies in conjunction with pharmaceutical medicine.

Homeopathic Medicine
Homeopathy is a separate form of medicine and philosophy that naturopathic doctors are trained in during their schooling (see The Difference Between Naturopathic Medicine and Homeopathy). It offers extremely diluted amounts of natural substances which offer a gentle, yet profound way to stimulate the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

Additional Certifications & Trainings
Some naturopathic doctors choose to receive advanced training in focused specialties, such as IV nutrient therapy, Lyme disease treatment, or midwifery. A naturopathic doctor can go on to become board certified in oncology, pediatrics, and endocrinology.