In different parts of the world, naturopathic medicine, naturopathy, and what it is to be a naturopath mean different things. North American trained naturopathic doctors are integrative medicine experts who can use both conventional diagnostic tools like lab tests and imaging and conventional pharmaceuticals alongside traditional methods of nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and lifestyle management.
Treatment with a naturopathic doctor is highly individualized. There is no one diet that is right for everyone and two people with the same condition often receive different treatment based on the patient’s unique circumstances.
Naturopathic doctors are trained as primary care providers at federally accredited naturopathic medical schools for 4-5 years and take licensing exams to obtain a state license.
What’s the difference between naturopathic and functional medicine?
Functional medicine is a term that has no regulation, anyone can use it. Some conventional providers take a series of weekend seminars to become certified in functional medicine. Some nutritionists say they use functional medicine. In contrast, naturopathic doctors spend an entire 4-5 year post graduate degree program with clinical training included on integrative medicine. Naturopathic doctors have all the tools of functional medicine, plus a wholistic framework on health and healing the whole person.
In many US states, the terms naturopath, naturopathic doctor, naturopathy, etc are only allowed to be used by those who hold a license to practice naturopathic medicine.