What exactly is Naturopathic Medicine? And does it work?

What is Naturopathy?

On paper, naturopathy is defined as a pseudo-scientific practice that is anchored in allowing the body to effectively heal itself through natural elements such as diet, exercise and age-old processes such as acupuncture, as well as some level of nutritional coaching. 

There are claims that the processes that define this type of practice are non-invasive. It is also a bit concerning the fact that naturopathy is actually against medical testing, which points to the notion that diagnosis reached through this practice isn’t verifiable.

Depression

It took a while before the term “clinically depressed” came to be accepted in the medical profession as an actual, medically diagnosable condition. Currently, this condition has been labeled as a mental health disorder that is characterized by a loss of interest in interactions and activities, and constant sadness to a level where one is incapable of functioning normally. 

Suicidal thoughts are also a common feature, in addition to changes in eating patterns, diminished energy levels, and self-esteem, and generally a decline or impairment in daily living.

Can Naturopathy Help Depression?

It is quite effective in the practice of mood disorders based solely on the fact that these disorders are psychological. The use of exercise, dietary therapy, and behavioral therapy are all techniques that have been known to significantly reduce the depression causing agents. Behavioral therapy is an especially useful angle as it seeks to eliminate the situational aspects responsible for a person’s depression and introduce a natural, non-invasive way of countering negative effects.

(Sources: Bjorndal, Christina. 2017. Beyond The Label:10 Steps to Improve Your Mental Health with Naturopathic Medicine)

(Epstein, Paul. 2011. Happiness Through Meditation.)

Anxiety/Panic Disorders

Anxiety in itself is not recognized as a mental disorder; it is, however, the key feature in defining many other mental disorders. The feelings of extreme fear, worry, or distress are all common responses to stressful situations, and they are all elements in the chain that defines anxiety. 

Panic attacks, however, are classified as a psychiatric disorder, and they can be triggered by anything from phobias to response to external stress factors. 

Each panic attack victim has different trigger factors, so the diagnosis and treatment do differ somewhat as well.

Can Naturopathy Treat Anxiety and Panic attacks?

Note that anxiety and panic attacks are not mutually exclusive; by treating one condition, you are essentially treating similar symptoms. According to naturopathic practice, there are a variety of ways you can treat anxiety, for instance by the use of dietary therapy that involves reducing sugar intake, eliminating caffeine. 

Meditation, as well as other progressive breathing techniques such as breathwork, are also very effective in battling panic attacks. Herbal supplements and exercise have also been a regular inclusion in naturopathy, as they have a calming effect that helps battle symptoms of anxiety.

Bottom Line

Naturopathy, can be very useful when treating mood disorders, including other complex medical complications, check with a holistic doctor to learn more. 

That said, although there is still a need for conclusive research, naturopathic medicine can provide a useful alternative for people who don’t find relief through contemporary medicine.