Naturopathy Degrees

By Shea Richardson
shea.richardson@medicalhealthcarecareerschools.com
Nursing Careers Columnist

A degree in naturopathy will allow you to practice healing and medicine like all other physicians. In addition to traditional methods, you'll learn to use natural substances that work with the body to heal itself.

What is Naturopathy?

Naturopathy is a system of therapy and treatment that relies only on natural remedies such as sunlight, air, water, diet supplements, and other therapies such as massage. This type of therapy and treatment is based on the belief that the human body is self-healing and that will repair itself and recover from illness if exposed to a healthy environment.

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People with a degree in naturopathy also believe that a person's mind can be used to enhance the immune system and can improve an individual's health. Doctors of naturopathy treat their patients by restoring overall health rather than lessening symptoms.

Naturopathic doctors place emphasis on trying to find the underlying cause of a health condition, then applying treatments that will detoxify and work with the natural healing mechanisms of the body.

The most common treatments offered by doctors of naturopathy include fasting, vitamins, herbs, tissue minerals, homeopathic remedies, cell salts, manipulation, massage, exercise, and colonic enemas. Other treatments include acupuncture, Chinese medicine, natural childbirth, and applications of water, heat, cold, air, sunlight, and electricity.

A Degree in Naturopathy

In order to become a naturopathic physician, you must obtain a degree in naturopathy. There are many colleges that offer this program in the United States and several levels of degrees, certificates, and diplomas available.

Course work offered in some naturopathic medicine academic programs include classes and training in the following areas: human anatomy and physiology, massage, hydrotherapy, biochemistry, neuroscience, immunology, homeopathy, pharmacology, dermatology, cardiology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, pediatrics, and many more. You will gain knowledge through many clinical classes as well.