What is Naturopathy?
Naturopathy is a unique and evolving holistic healthcare system build on traditional philosophies and a diversity of treatment options. The United States is considered the home of modern naturopathy, with naturopathic principles and philosophy originating in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Naturopaths treat each patient individually seeking to address the underlying causes of disease while resolving symptoms. Naturopathic practitioners consider all aspects of your health and lifestyle, typically beginning with a very detailed cased history interview. Diagnostic testing may then be considered appropriate, and subsequent treatments may include herbal and nutritional medicine, lifestyle recommendations, and counselling techniques. Most NHAA-affiliated naturopaths practise Western Herbal Medicine.
What is Western Herbal Medicine?
Throughout history and across the globe, the medicinal qualities of plants have supported human health. Modern western herbal medicine has its origins in European transitions and plants, and the history of Western herbal medicine in Australia can be traced back to the First Fleet, which brought medicinal European plants for cultivation at the first colonial hospital. It is also vital to acknowledges the traditional herbal medicine practices of Australia’s First Nations peoples and the NHAA respect their traditional knowledge of Australia’s unique flora and fauna as part of a deep and enduring connection to country.
A qualified herbalist prepares individual mixtures of medicinal-grade herbal medicines and their compounds in liquid form, or as pre-packaged herbal formulations based on an individual detailed case history interview and ongoing appointments.
Most NHAA-affiliated naturopaths utilise Western herbal medicine as part of their treatment. The medicines prescribed by NHAA members are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
