10 common myths about alternative practitioners & naturopathy

10 common myths about alternative practitioners & naturopathy

A growing percentage of the population is focusing on prevention, wellness and natural approaches to treating illness by seeking complementary and integrative medicine practitioners. Therefore, patients seek the advice of naturopaths to manage this process in a safe and effective way.

Despite the popularity of natural medicine, there is much confusion about what naturopathy is and how naturopaths practice. Below we will address some common myths and misconceptions about naturopathy.

Myth #1: You can complete your naturopathic medical degree online.

One of the most common questions is whether you can complete your naturopathic medical training online. While some requirements can be completed online, the degree itself is practical training to become a doctor. Completion of a naturopathic online medical program is granted noEligibility to be licensed as a naturopathic doctor in a jurisdiction in which alternative practitioners are officially recognized. Jurisdictions that regulate naturopaths require completion of an accredited doctoral program that includes hands-on, supervised clinical training. Additionally, graduates of online programs are neither qualified nor eligible to sit for the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX), which are also required by law.

Myth #2: Naturopathy is not scientifically or evidence-based.

Another common myth about naturopathy is that it is not scientifically or evidence-based. Regulated naturopathic practitioners complete four years of scientifically based medical training at an accredited or eligible school of the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (the only naturopathic programmatic accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education). At least two years are spent studying the same biomedical sciences that prepare medical students to become physicians. ND students learn to evaluate and weigh the evidence base as part of developing treatment plans for patients. ND schools are also leaders in the development of primary research in natural medicine.

Myth #3: Naturopaths are anti-drugs/anti-pharmaceuticals.

Alternative practitioners are not afraid of medicine. The ND curriculum includes the study of drugs as well as the biochemical pathways and mechanisms of action, indications and side effects of drugs. As a complement to conventional pharmacology, NDs examine the intersection and effectiveness of conventional medications with dietary supplements and herbs, as well as drug-herb, drug-nutrient interactions. It is the job of a naturopathic doctor to treat the person, meet them where they are, and work as part of the healthcare team for their patient's well-being. Prescription medications can be part of this process.

Myth #4: Alternative practitioners and naturopaths are the same.

In jurisdictions that do not regulate the naturopathic profession, people without accredited training sometimes use the title naturopathic doctor or naturopathic doctor. These individuals should not be confused with graduates of CNME-accredited four-year programs and do not complete the standardized training of an accredited program.

Myth #5: You have to choose between naturopathy and conventional medicine.

Alternative practitioners are an essential part of the healthcare team and work with conventional doctors in science, clinical practice and research. Alternative practitioners provide patient care based on conventional and integrative medicine. Therefore, there is a growing demand for NDs in integrative settings. Studies have also shown that by adding naturopathic care to conventional care, patients have better overall health. Dugald Seely, ND, conducted a comprehensive study of patients at increased risk of heart attack and stroke. At the end of the year-long study, the group that received naturopathic treatment in addition to conventional care had a greatly reduced risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke than the group that received conventional treatment alone.

Myth #6: Naturopathy is only for wealthy patients.

Increasing insurance coverage for naturopathic medicines is available in a number of U.S. states, making naturopathic care more accessible. For patients who may not be able to afford care, NDs often offer income-based sliding scales. When viewed through a long-term lens, the cost savings and improved quality of life through disease prevention are worth the upfront investment for many patients. They see the value in prioritizing naturopathic care for their overall health.

Additionally, we are proud that every AANMC member school offers free or low-cost care through networks of community outreach clinics. NDs and ND students provide naturopathic care to vulnerable populations who often need it most.

Myth #7: Naturopathy is only for hippies.

Naturopathic patients are as diverse as our general population. Some of the most commonly treated conditions include digestive/GI disorders, nutrition, and women's health, among others. Our patient base spans all beliefs, ages, genders, ethnicities and socioeconomic categories. Patients who value preventive, individualized medicine choose alternative practitioners. They recognize the importance of preventing disease rather than suppressing their symptoms and want to live a healthier lifestyle and take an active role in managing their health.

Myth #8: Alternative practitioners are the same as homeopaths.

Alternative practitioners and homeopaths are not the same. Homeopathy is one of many tools in a naturopath's therapeutic toolbox. It is one of many therapies available and just one component of a diverse curriculum.

Myth #9: Alternative practitioners are not trained as family doctors.

Licensed naturopaths work in primary care settings throughout North America and are able to treat most outpatient problems typically encountered in primary care settings. Naturopaths learn to treat all aspects of family health and well-being, from pediatrics to geriatrics and acute colds and flus to chronic pain.

Myth #10: If it's natural, it must be safe.

Just because something is “natural” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe. Natural products can have side effects and contraindications. It is important to consult a licensed naturopathic doctor before beginning treatment to ensure that what you are taking is appropriate and safe for you.

Hopefully, by addressing these myths, you will have a better understanding of the role that healthcare practitioners play in helping patients stay healthy longer and live happy, fulfilling lives.