When it comes to how to treat ailments and conditions, not everyone is on the same page about how to go about treatment. Many stick to modern medicine, and have a negative view on naturopathic treatments. Unfortunately, this path is often clouded by scores of myths and misconceptions, almost all of which stem from a lack of understanding of what the treatment entails. Here are some of those myths and some clarity on the truth of naturopathic treatments.
What is a Naturopath?
Before discussing some misconceptions people have about Naturopaths, let’s clarify what they do. Put simply, a Naturopath is a medical professional who uses natural remedies to treat patients instead of conventional methods. To diagnose an issue, these professionals will take a holistic approach and consider the patient’s physical, mental, and emotional health. Treatment plans typically include the use of natural herbal medicines or holistic advice for changing one’s lifestyle to improve one’s current condition.
10 myths about Naturopaths you may have believed
It’s easy to build a perspective of something when you don’t fully understand it. You simply fill in the missing gaps with your own opinion or theories. Unfortunately, this leaves you with a wrong perspective, and regarding healthcare, it can limit what treatments are available to you. Here’s what some people have believed about naturopaths:
Anyone can become a Naturopath
We often hear people talking about the naturopathic profession as something you can practice in the comfort of your own home by teaching yourself about natural remedies and treatments. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
While there is a lot you can teach yourself regarding naturopathic practices, this won’t necessarily make you a naturopath doctor. To become an official professional naturopath, you need to undergo a degree with hands-on training to become a doctor. Simplifying doing a short online course won’t qualify you to practice or to get a license, either.
There is no evidence backing naturopathic methods
Another common myth we hear people mention is that there isn’t much evidence backing the effectiveness of naturopathic medication. Considering the fact that many conventional medications are made from natural ingredients, this is a pretty weak argument. Naturopathic doctors study for a minimum of four years studying and researching different natural methods and medications to treat patience.
During this time, they study the same biomedical sciences that traditional doctors do. Likewise, the medication passed for use in naturopathy goes through the same research intensive vetting process that other medications do to, ensuring that it’s safe to use for people.
All Naturopathic healthcare professionals are anti-drug
While it may seem easy to make this assumption, naturopathic healthcare professionals aren’t anti-drugs or conventional medications. Actually, when studying naturopathics, they have to study pharmaceuticals too so that they understand the impact different medications have on patients. Their aim is simply to use natural remedies to treat their patients.
You need to choose between Naturopathic medicine or traditional medicine
There is no “this-or-that” decision when it comes to what medication you should use. Like doctors, naturopathic doctors are dedicated to your well-being; thus, if natural remedies aren’t working, the next solution would be to find another medicinal solution that will benefit you more.
Likewise, one shouldn’t consider these two medical professions in contrast to one another. Rather, naturopathic doctors play a significant component in the healthcare system alongside other medical professionals. The difference is that the care they provide is founded on the fundamentals of conventional medicine.
Only the wealthy can afford Naturopathic medication
It’s common for people to think that the more natural alternative care would be more expensive, considering other natural alternatives like dietary options and hygiene products are generally pricier. Fortunately, many medical insurance providers cover portions of naturopathic treatments, too, making it more accessible for various people.
Naturopathic medication is for hippies
This one made us chuckle. A myth about naturopathic medication is that it’s for hippies. Natural medications and treatments can be used by practically anyone. They aren’t only for a select group of people. While those who classify themselves as naturalists or hippies may prefer to use natural medicines only, this is by no means that naturopathic medicines are only for them.
Get holistic naturopathic treatment in Australia
You’ll be surprised by how many medical facilities around Australia offer naturopathic treatments. For those who want to visit an experienced holistic naturopath in Brisbane, we recommend booking an appointment at the Shift Brisbane Clinic. The Shift Clinic offers some of the best holistic naturopath treatments in Australia and specialises in the treatment of complex and chronic cases.
Final thought
Holding a negative perspective regarding naturopathic treatments will only limit their availability and benefits to you. We trust that some of the myths busted above have shed some light on what naturopathy is and how it can benefit your overall health if you ever choose to consult a naturopathic doctor.
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