Common misconceptions about naturopathy
All treatment plans are easy and gentle
When building a health plan, a naturopath is driven by what feels realistic and sustainable for an individual to implement in their life. If the naturopath feels the client is ready and willing to bring to life a challenging plan, the recommendations may be some of the most difficult changes they have ever made - leading to powerful outcomes. However, if a client is overwhelmed, with low vitality, and little energy to give - slow and small steps would be the most appropriate way to start. These small steps also have the ability to create powerful outcomes - every action counts towards the greater vision of optimal health and reconnection with oneself. The practitioner must find the sweet spot of the individual's capacity and what will create meaningful change to inspire a trajectory of healing.
All natural medicines are 100% safe to self-prescribe
Just because it is natural, it doesn't always mean it's 100% safe - but certainly potent and powerful. For example, natural medicines in the form of supplements or liquid herbal formulas can cause side-effects and interact with other medicines if they aren't dosed appropriately or considered with caution. Similarly, it's really necessary to educate yourself on why you are taking certain products, and if you actually need them. Did you know probiotics contain different strains for different purposes? That many over-the-counter supplements are poorly absorbed by the body? That you could be causing an imbalance within the body by overshooting with supplements? This is why it is so important to work with a practitioner when considering what products to use. It can save you a lot of money and create better health outcomes in the long run.
Naturopathy is not supported by modern science
Naturopathic medicine is as old as healing itself, and as modern as new medical breakthroughs. It is impossible to separate the past from the present when considering how we came to practise the way we do today. The principles and philosophies of naturopathy are rooted in traditional knowledge, and inspired by the healing capacity of oneself. However, as we operate in the modern-day and the need for hard facts and evidence exists, naturopathic care is keeping pace through evidence-based research and developing science. Most treatment protocols are underpinned by clinical trials and biochemistry. However, keep in mind treatment for spiritual, emotional, and mental health are difficult to qualify through research. This is where the intuitive power of your naturopath and their anecdotal evidence plays an important role.
Naturopaths are anti-pharmaceuticals
There is no denying in today's world we have an urgent need for conventional medical treatment and pharmaceuticals. Without the advancements experienced within the scientific era, our lives would look a whole lot different. As healthcare practitioners, we must all honour our scope of practice and keep the client's best interests at the centre of treatment. We must understand where the individual is at, what the safest and most appropriate approach to treatment is, and how we can create long-lasting improvements that liberates them from dis-ease. I believe a collaborative approach can create powerful outcomes. Anyone who is working to empower an individual and optimise their health - we are on the same team.
Naturopaths, homeopaths, kinesiologists ... are all the same
Because someone is a naturopath, it doesn't mean they are also an; homeopath, kinesiologist, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, aromatherapist, massage therapist... the list goes on. While many of these modalities share the philosophies of "holism" and supporting the body's innate ability to heal, they may not be practiced by a naturopath. Many practitioners have chosen further study and added these modalities into their toolbox, many choose not to. They all require their own knowledge-base and expertise. Always consult with a naturopath prior to treatment and ensure you share a similar value system, understand their approach to treatment and agree on your health priorities.