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The Principles of Naturopathic Medicine
The Healing Power of Nature Vis Medicatrix Naturae
There is an inherent self-healing process in the body that is ordered and intelligent. The healing power of nature & the concept of the vital force is deep within us. Whether called
Chi in China, Ki in Japan, Prana in India or Mana in Hawaii, the Vital force is our inherent wisdom, our essence, which inspires healing on all levels.
First Do No Harm Primum Non Nocere
Naturopathic medicine follows three principles to avoid harming the patient: (1) Utilize methods and medical substances that minimize the risk of harmful side effects (2) Avoid, when possible, the harmful suppression of symptoms (3) Acknowledge and respect the individualís healing process, using the least force necessary to diagnose and treat illness. Treat the Whole Person
Optimal wellness comes from embracing and respecting all aspects of our being - mind, body, heart and soul.
Find the Cause Tolle Causam
Treating the source of disharmony brings cure. Fixing symptoms only leads to temporary relief. Everything must be taken into consideration when restoring balance and alignment.
Prevention
Be mindful of preventing illness first rather than waiting for problems to occur and then addressing them. One needs to make conscious lifestyle choices while healthy in order to stay that way.
Doctor as Teacher Docere
The genuine meaning of doctor is teacher. Listening, educating, reflecting, supporting and being a resource are the primary roles of a Naturopathic Physician.
The Naturopathic Oath
I dedicate myself to the service of humanity, as a practitioner
of the art and science of Naturopathic medicine.
I will honor my teachers and all who have preserved
and developed this knowledge and dedicate myself to
supporting the growth and evolution of Naturopathic medicine.
I will endeavour to continually improve my abilities as healer through study, reflection and genuine concern for humanity.
I will impart knowledge of the advanced healing arts to dedicated colleagues and students.
Through precept, lecture and example, I will assist and encourage
others to strengthen their health, reduce risks of disease, and
preserve the health of our planet for ourselves, our
families, and future generations.
According to my best ability and judgment, I will use methods of treatment which follow the principles of Naturopathic medicine:
First of all, to do no harm.
To act in cooperation with the Healing Power of Nature.
To address the fundamental cause of disease.
To heal the whole person through individualized treatment.
To teach the principles of healthy living and preventative medicine.
I will conduct my life and the practice of Naturopathic healthcare with vigilance, integrity, and freedom from prejudice.
I will abstain from voluntary acts of injustice and corruption.
I will keep confidential whatever I am privileged to witness whether professionally or privately, that should not be divulged.
With my whole heart, before this gathering of witnesses, as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, I pledge to remain true to this oath.
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