It is a healthcare system that blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural medicine. At its foundation, Naturopathic Medicine promotes the healing powers of nature and the innate ability of the body to heal itself. Naturopathic Doctors take a holistic approach to get to the root cause of acute and chronic conditions, using natural therapies learned throughout a 4 year post graduate program.

 

The beauty of Naturopathic Medicine is that it is individualized to a person’s needs and present state of health. It’s beneficial for both health promotion and disease prevention.

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Prevention is important because minor issues not treated early can lead to bigger problems later that may be more difficult and time consuming to address. Naturopathic Medicine can act as a source of treatments you may not have considered.​

 

Botanical Medicine

It can benefit acute and chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal issues, mental health, inflammation and immunity.

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Botanical medicine (also known as herbalism or phytomedicine) involves the use of plants or their extracts for consumption or topical application.

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Depending on your condition, botanicals can be consumed as teas, tinctures, capsules or topically as creams and salves.

After gathering a thorough medical history, a Naturopathic Doctor can assess herbals for their safety and any potential interactions with current medications.

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Traditional Chinese Medicine

The World health Organization supports acupuncture for several conditions from pain to depression to digestion.

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Traditional Chinese Medicine has been in existence for over 3000 years and it involves restoring balance to the body through herbs, nutrition, acupuncture and cupping.

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I practice 3 types of acupuncture – traditional, electroacupuncture and dry needling.

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Cupping is another technique I use where hollow containers are applied to the skin with suction. This increases local blood flow and stretches tissues, which are beneficial for muscle pain.

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Supplements and Nutraceuticals

They can benefit deficiencies and both health promotion and disease prevention.

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Supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs and amino acids from food products concentrated in liquid, capsules or pills. These can be used to supplement the diet when there are deficiencies such as vitamin D or iron.

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Nutraceuticals are a type of supplement derived from food or part of a food such as garlic or ginger. These are not necessary to consume but they can be beneficial for health promotion and disease prevention.

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Most nutrients can be obtained from a healthy diet but sometimes getting the recommended doses cannot be achieved. The goal is to take supplements and nutraceuticals in the short term to heal and restore balance to the body. It’s important to get recommendations on which to take as quality matters along with dosing and any potential medication interactions.

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Lifestyle Recommendations

Diet, exercise, sleep and mindfulness

These 4 pillars of health are important for prevention and overall well-being. My goal is to give you sustainable recommendations that will fit your lifestyle

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Laboratory Testing

To gain more knowledge on your health Naturopathic Doctors can write laboratory requisitions but these are not covered by the government. Comprehensive lab tests may give additional information to help with diagnosis and treatment. I always welcome the opportunity to collaborate with your MD. Blood draws are conducted through Dynacare and Lifelabs.

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