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{{Short description|Form of alternative medicine}}
{{Alternative medical systems}}
{{pp-semi-indef|small=yes}}
'''Naturopathy''' (also known as '''naturopathic medicine''' or '''natural medicine''') is an eclectic [[alternative medicine|alternative medical system]] that focuses on natural remedies and the body's [[vitalism|vital]] ability to heal and maintain itself. Naturopathic philosophy favors a [[holistic health|holistic]] approach and minimal use of [[surgery]] and [[Medication|drugs]]. Naturopathy comprises many different treatment modalities of varying degrees of acceptance by the [[medicine|medical]] community; diet and lifestyle advice may be substantially similar to that offered by non-naturopaths, and [[acupuncture]] may help reduce pain in some cases, while [[homeopathy]] is often characterized as [[pseudoscience]] or [[quackery]].<ref name=Gale_Frey /><ref name="cnme-handbook" /><ref name=Barrett-Naturopathy/><ref name=atwood2004/><ref name=ACS />
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{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2020}}


{{Infobox alternative medicine
Naturopathy has its origins in the Nature Cure movement of Europe.<ref name=pmid1139856>{{cite journal |pmc=1139856 |title=Nineteenth-century American health reformers and the early nature cure movement in Britain |author=Brown PS |journal=Medical History |volume=32 |pages=174–194 |pmid=3287059 |issue=2 |date= April 1, 1988 }}</ref><ref name=N-UK-hist>{{cite web |title=History of Naturopathy |url=http://www.naturopathy-uk.com/blog/2007/11/28/history-of-naturopathy/ |year=2007}}</ref> The term was coined in 1895 by John Scheel and popularized by [[Benedict Lust]],<ref name=ama_1997 /> the "father of U.S. naturopathy".<ref name=Baer2001 />
| name = Naturopathy
| image = Hepar.jpg
| image_size = 200
| alt = Old homeopathic remedy, Hepar sulph.
| caption = A [[homeopathic]] preparation of Hepar sulph – homeopathy can be offered as part of naturopathic treatment.<ref name=Gale_Frey/>
| claims = Diseases are cured through the body's "natural healing" ability which is primarily aided by practices labelled as "natural" (and not primarily by [[pharmaceutical drug]]s, surgery, and other treatments within evidence-based medicine, not seen as "natural"), comprising widely ranging "nature cures" and any form of alternative medicine that may be labelled as "natural"
| topics = [[Alternative medicine]]
| orig-date = early 20th century
| origprop = [[Benedict Lust]]; [[Sebastian Kneipp]]
| laterprop =
| seealso = [[Humorism]], [[heroic medicine]], [[vitalism]]
| MeshID = D009324
}}
{{Alternative medical systems|fringe}}


'''Naturopathy''', or '''naturopathic medicine''', is a form of [[alternative medicine]].<ref name=Gale_Frey/> A wide array of practices branded as "natural", "non-invasive", or promoting "self-healing" are employed by its practitioners, who are known as '''naturopaths'''. Difficult to generalize, these treatments range from the [[Pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]] and thoroughly discredited, like [[homeopathy]], to the widely accepted, like certain forms of [[psychotherapy]].<ref name="Baran2014">{{cite book |doi=10.1007/978-1-4614-8541-4_2 |chapter=Science, Pseudoscience, and Not Science: How do They Differ? |title=Healthcare and Biomedical Technology in the 21st Century |year=2014 |last1=Baran |first1=George R. |last2=Kiani |first2=Mohammad F. |last3=Samuel |first3=Solomon Praveen |pages=19–57 |isbn=978-1-4614-8540-7 |quote=within the traditional medical community it is considered to be quackery }}</ref><ref name="oxcompus">{{cite book|author=Paul S. Boyer|url=https://archive.org/details/oxfordcompaniont00paul_0|title=The Oxford companion to United States history|year=2001|isbn=978-0-19-508209-8|page=[https://archive.org/details/oxfordcompaniont00paul_0/page/630 630]|publisher=Oxford University Press |quote=After 1847, when regular doctors organized the American Medical Association (AMA), that body led the war on "quackery", especially targeting dissenting medical groups such as homeopaths, who prescribed infinitesimally small doses of medicine. Ironically, even as the AMA attacked all homeopathy as quackery, educated homeopathic physicians were expelling untrained quacks from their ranks.|access-date=January 15, 2013|url-access=registration}}</ref><ref>Psychotherapy can be evidence based, or pseudoscientific however, see:
Naturopathy is practiced in many countries, especially the United States and Canada, and is subject to different standards of regulation and levels of acceptance. The level of medical education among naturopaths also varies, though no naturopathic training program reaches the same level of training as an MD or DO.<ref name=atwood2003 /> In the United States and Canada, the designation of Naturopathic Doctor may be awarded after completion of a four year program of study at an accredited [[Naturopathic medical school]] that includes the study of basic medical sciences as well as natural remedies and medical care.<ref name="CNME-handbook" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Academic Curriculum |year=2008 |url=http://www.aanmc.org/education/academic-curriculum.php |publisher=Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges}} (primary source)</ref>{{POV-statement|date=January 2010}} The scope of practice varies widely between jurisdictions, and naturopaths in unregulated jurisdictions may use the Naturopathic Doctor designation or other titles regardless of level of education. {{citation needed}}<ref name=IA_med />{{refimprove}}
* {{cite journal|last=Lilienfeld|first=Scott O.|author-link=Scott Lilienfeld|date=December 2015|title=Introduction to special section on pseudoscience in psychiatry|journal=[[The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry]]|volume=60|issue=12|pages=531–533|doi=10.1177/070674371506001202|pmc=4679160|pmid=26720820|quote=Although the boundaries separating pseudoscience from science are fuzzy, pseudosciences are characterized by several warning signs{{snd}}fallible but useful indicators that distinguish them from most scientific disciplines. ... In contrast to most accepted medical interventions, which are prescribed for a circumscribed number of conditions, many pseudoscientific techniques lack boundary conditions of application. For example, some proponents of [[Thought Field Therapy]], an intervention that purports to correct imbalances in unobservable energy fields, using specified bodily tapping algorithms, maintain that it can be used to treat virtually any psychological condition, and that it is helpful not only for adults but also for children, dogs, and horses.}}
* {{cite journal|last1=Lee|first1=Catherine M.|last2=Hunsley|first2=John|date=December 2015|title=Evidence-based practice: separating science from pseudoscience|journal=[[The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry]]|volume=60|issue=12|pages=534–540|doi=10.1177/070674371506001203|pmc=4679161|pmid=26720821|quote=TFT, a treatment applied to mood, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders, is a prime example of practice founded on pseudoscience. TFT is based on the premise that bodily energy imbalances cause negative emotions. Treatment is purported to rectify imbalances by tapping on acupuncture meridians. Virtually no peer-reviewed research supports this treatment rationale. With only methodologically weak reports available in the literature, the so-called science cited to support TFT is primarily anecdotal and does not rule out placebo effects. Despite these criticisms, the TFT website continues to advance unsupported claims about TFT's ability to cure almost any emotional problem.}}</ref> The ideology and methods of naturopathy are based on [[vitalism]] and [[folk medicine]] rather than [[evidence-based medicine]], although practitioners may use techniques supported by evidence.<ref name="Jagtenberg2006" /><ref>{{Cite journal|last=Tabish|first=Syed Amin|date=2008|title=Complementary and Alternative Healthcare: Is it Evidence-based?|journal=International Journal of Health Sciences|volume=2|issue=1|pages=v–ix |pmc=3068720|pmid=21475465}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Goldenberg |first1=Joshua Z. |last2=Burlingham |first2=Bonnie S. |last3=Guiltinan |first3=Jane |last4=Oberg |first4=Erica B. |title=Shifting attitudes towards research and evidence-based medicine within the naturopathic medical community |journal=Advances in Integrative Medicine |date=August 2017 |volume=4 |issue=2 |pages=49–55 |doi=10.1016/j.aimed.2017.08.003 }}</ref> The ethics of naturopathy have been called into question by medical professionals and its practice has been characterized as [[quackery]].<ref name="atwood2003" /><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Gorski DH | title = Integrative oncology: really the best of both worlds? | journal = Nature Reviews. Cancer | volume = 14 | issue = 10 | pages = 692–700 | date = October 2014 | pmid = 25230880 | doi = 10.1038/nrc3822 | ref = Gorski Nature | s2cid = 33539406 }}</ref><ref name="tot" /><ref name="ACS-2009">{{cite book |editor1-last=Russell |editor1-first=Jill |title=American Cancer Society complete guide to complementary & alternative cancer therapies |date=2009 |publisher=American Cancer Society |isbn=978-1-60443-054-7 |pages=116–119 |oclc=671655748 }}</ref><ref name="atwood2004" />

Naturopathic practitioners commonly encourage alternative treatments that are rejected by conventional medicine, including resistance to [[surgery]] or [[vaccines]] for some patients.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Wilson K, Busse JW, Gilchrist A, Vohra S, Boon H, Mills E | title = Characteristics of pediatric and adolescent patients attending a naturopathic college clinic in Canada | journal = Pediatrics | volume = 115 | issue = 3 | pages = e338-43 | date = March 2005 | pmid = 15741360 | doi = 10.1542/peds.2004-1901 | doi-access = }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Busse JW, Wilson K, Campbell JB | title = Attitudes towards vaccination among chiropractic and naturopathic students | journal = Vaccine | volume = 26 | issue = 49 | pages = 6237–6243 | date = November 2008 | pmid = 18674581 | doi = 10.1016/j.vaccine.2008.07.020 }}</ref><ref name="wilson">{{cite journal | vauthors = Wilson K, Mills E, Boon H, Tomlinson G, Ritvo P | title = A survey of attitudes towards paediatric vaccinations amongst Canadian naturopathic students | journal = Vaccine | volume = 22 | issue = 3–4 | pages = 329–334 | date = January 2004 | pmid = 14670313 | doi = 10.1016/j.vaccine.2003.08.014 | ref = naturopathi_students_low_vax }}</ref><ref name="Mielczarek2014">{{cite journal |last1=Engler |first1=Brian D. |last2=Mielczarek |first2=Eugenie V. |title=Selling Pseudoscience: A Rent in the Fabric of American Medicine |journal=Skeptical Inquirer |volume=38 |issue=3 |year=2014 |url=https://skepticalinquirer.org/2014/05/selling-pseudoscience-a-rent-in-the-fabric-of-american-medicine/ }}</ref> The diagnoses made by naturopaths often have no basis in science and are often not accepted by mainstream medicine.<ref name="atwood2003" /><ref name="AAFP">{{cite web|title=Family Physicians versus Naturopaths|url=http://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/advocacy/workforce/gme/ES-FPvsNaturopaths-110810.pdf|website=aafp.org|publisher=American Academy of Family Physicians|access-date=20 July 2015|ref=aafp|archive-date=June 16, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150616081319/http://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/advocacy/workforce/gme/ES-FPvsNaturopaths-110810.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

Naturopaths frequently campaign for legal recognition in the United States. Naturopathy is prohibited in three [[U.S. states]] (Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee) and tightly regulated in many others. Some states, however, allow naturopaths to perform minor surgery or even prescribe drugs. While some schools exist for naturopaths, and some jurisdictions allow such practitioners to call themselves doctors, the lack of accreditation, scientific medical training, and quantifiable positive results means they lack the competency of true medical doctors.


==History==
==History==
Some see the ancient Greek "Father of Medicine", [[Hippocrates]], as the first advocate of naturopathic medicine, before the term existed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.naturopathy-uk.com/home/home-what-is-naturopathy/ |title=What is Naturopathy? |year=1998 |accessdate= |doi= |pmid= }}</ref><ref name=NCAHF_np> {{cite web|url=http://www.ncahf.org/articles/j-n/naturo.html |title=NCAHF Fact Sheet on Naturopathy |accessdate=2009-04-17 |date=2001-07-30 |publisher=[[National Council Against Health Fraud]] }}</ref> The modern practice of naturopathy has its roots in the Nature Cure movement of Europe.<ref name=pmid1139856 /><ref name=N-UK-hist /> In Scotland, [[Thomas Allinson]] started advocating his "Hygienic Medicine" in the 1880s, promoting a natural diet and exercise with avoidance of tobacco and overwork.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.allinsonflour.co.uk/history/|title=How it all began |accessdate= |doi= |pmid=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|url=http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/extract/336/7651/1023-a |journal=British Medical Journal |title=Views & Reviews Medical Classics A System of Hygienic Medicine (1886) and The Advantages of Wholemeal Bread (1889) |author=John A S Beard |issue=336 |page=1023 |date=3 May 2008 |doi=10.1136/bmj.39562.446528.59 |volume=336 }}</ref> The term ''sanipractor'' has sometimes been used to refer to naturopaths, particularly in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.<ref name=Baer2001 />
The term "naturopathy" originates from "natura" ([[Latin]] root for birth) and "pathos" (the [[Greek language|Greek]] root for suffering) to suggest "natural healing".<ref name="NCAHF_np" /> Naturopaths claim the ancient Greek "Father of Medicine", [[Hippocrates]], as the first advocate of naturopathic medicine, before the term existed.<ref name="NCAHF_np">{{cite web |url=http://www.ncahf.org/articles/j-n/naturo.html |title=NCAHF Fact Sheet on Naturopathy |access-date=2009-04-17 |date=January 30, 2001 |orig-date=copyright 1997 |vauthors=Jarvis WT |publisher=[[National Council Against Health Fraud]] |archive-date=September 27, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927173337/http://www.ncahf.org/articles/j-n/naturo.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.naturopathy-uk.com/home/home-what-is-naturopathy/ |title=What is Naturopathy? |work=College of Naturopathic Medicine website |location=East Grinstead, England |access-date=16 September 2015 |author=<!-- no byline --> |archive-date=September 18, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100918040756/http://www.naturopathy-uk.com/home/home-what-is-naturopathy/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Naturopathy has its roots in the 19th-century [[History of alternative medicine|Natural Cure movement]] of [[Europe]].<ref name="pmid1139856">{{cite journal | vauthors = Brown PS | title = Nineteenth-century American health reformers and the early nature cure movement in Britain | journal = Medical History | volume = 32 | issue = 2 | pages = 174–194 | date = April 1988 | pmid = 3287059 | pmc = 1139856 | doi = 10.1017/S0025727300047980 }}</ref><ref name="N-UK-hist">{{Cite web | vauthors = Langley S |title=History of Naturopathy |work=College of Naturopathic Medicine website |publisher=<!-- College of Naturopathic Medicine redundant to website name--> |location=UK |url=http://www.naturopathy-uk.com/blog/2007/11/28/history-of-naturopathy/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120829125721/http://www.naturopathy-uk.com/blog/2007/11/28/history-of-naturopathy/ |archive-date=2012-08-29 }}</ref> In [[Scotland]], [[Thomas Allinson]] started advocating his "Hygienic Medicine" in the 1880s, promoting a natural diet and exercise with avoidance of tobacco and overwork.<ref>{{cite web |title= How it all began |url= http://www.allinsonflour.co.uk/history/ |author= <!-- no byline --> |work= [[Allinson|Allinson Flour]] website |publisher= Silver Spoon, [[British Sugar]], [[Associated British Foods]] |access-date= September 3, 2008 |archive-date= August 13, 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100813230535/http://www.allinsonflour.co.uk/history/ |url-status= live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |journal=[[BMJ]] |series=Views & Reviews: Medical Classics |title=A system of hygienic medicine (1886) and The advantages of wholemeal bread (1889) | vauthors = Beard JA |issue=7651 |page=1023 |date=May 3, 2008 |doi=10.1136/bmj.39562.446528.59 |volume=336 |pmc=2364871 }}</ref>


The term ''naturopathy'' was coined in 1895 by John Scheel,<ref name=ama_1997 /> and purchased by [[Benedict Lust]], the "father of U.S. naturopathy".<ref name=Baer2001>{{Cite journal | last = Baer |first = H.A | year = 2001 | title = The sociopolitical status of US naturopathy at the dawn of the 21st century | journal = Medical Anthropology Quarterly | volume = 15 | issue = 3 | pages = 329–346| doi = 10.1525/maq.2001.15.3.329 }}</ref> Lust had been schooled in [[hydrotherapy]] and other natural health practices in [[Germany]] by Father [[Sebastian Kneipp]]; Kneipp sent Lust to the [[United States]] to spread his drugless methods.<ref name=Barrett-Naturopathy/> Lust defined ''naturopathy'' as a broad discipline rather than a particular method, and included such techniques as [[hydrotherapy]], [[herbal medicine]], and [[homeopathy]], as well as giving up overeating, tea, coffee, and alcohol.<ref name=Gale_Frey /> He described the body in [[spirituality|spiritual]] and [[vitalism|vitalistic]] terms with "absolute reliance upon the cosmic forces of man's nature."<ref name=Whorton_2002>Benedict Lust, cited in: {{cite book |author=Whorton, James C. |title=Nature cures: the history of alternative medicine in America |publisher=Oxford University Press|location=Oxford [Oxfordshire] |year=2002 |page=224 |isbn=0-19-517162-4 |oclc= |doi=|accessdate=}}</ref>
The term ''naturopathy'' was coined in 1895 by John Scheel,<ref name="ama_1997" /> and purchased by [[Benedict Lust]], whom naturopaths consider to be the "Father of U.S. Naturopathy".<ref name="Baer2001">{{cite journal | vauthors = Baer HA | title = The sociopolitical status of U.S. naturopathy at the dawn of the 21st century | journal = Medical Anthropology Quarterly | volume = 15 | issue = 3 | pages = 329–346 | date = September 2001 | pmid = 11693035 | doi = 10.1525/maq.2001.15.3.329 }}</ref> Lust had been schooled in [[Water cure (therapy)|hydrotherapy]] and other natural health practices in Germany by Father [[Sebastian Kneipp]]; Kneipp sent Lust to the United States to spread his drugless methods.<ref name="Barrett-Naturopathy">{{cite web |url= http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/naturopathy.html |vauthors= Barrett S |title= A close look at naturopathy |work= [[QuackWatch]] |date= November 26, 2013 |access-date= 2015-03-21 |archive-date= April 6, 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110406111422/http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/naturopathy.html |url-status= live }}</ref> Lust defined naturopathy as a broad discipline rather than a particular method, and included such techniques as hydrotherapy, [[herbal medicine]], and homeopathy, as well as eliminating overeating, tea, coffee, and alcohol.<ref name="Gale_Frey">{{cite book |vauthors=Boughton RJ, Frey B |chapter=Naturopathic Medicine |year=2005 |chapter-url=http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Naturopathic_Medicine.aspx |title=Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine |publisher=[[Gale (publisher)|Gale]] |edition=2nd |access-date=March 21, 2015 |archive-date=June 24, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130624073748/http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Naturopathic_Medicine.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> He described the body in [[spirituality|spiritual]] and vitalistic terms with "absolute reliance upon the cosmic forces of man's nature".<ref name="Whorton_2002">Lust, Benedict cited in: {{cite book| vauthors = Whorton JC |title=Nature Cures : The History of Alternative Medicine in America: The History of Alternative Medicine in America|url=https://archive.org/details/naturecureshisto00whor |url-access=registration|access-date=2013-09-03 |date=2002|publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |location=Oxford |isbn=978-0-19-534978-8 |page=[https://archive.org/details/naturecureshisto00whor/page/224 224]}}</ref> According to the ''[[Webster's Dictionary|Merriam-Webster Dictionary]]'', the first known use of "naturopathy" in print is from 1901.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naturopath|title=Naturopathy - Definition of Naturopathy by Merriam-Webster|access-date=October 27, 2015|archive-date=November 19, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151119131441/http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naturopath|url-status=live}}</ref>


In 1901, Lust founded the American School of Naturopathy in [[New York]]. In 1902 he founded the Naturopathic Society of America (reorganized in 1909 as the American Naturopathic Association, ANA).<ref>DC Department of Consumer Affairs, Corporate Division. (Continuously Incorporated since 1909)</ref><ref name=Baer2001 /><ref name=Beyerstein_NW> {{cite web|url=http://www.naturowatch.org/general/beyerstein.html |title=Naturopathy: a critical analysis |accessdate=2009-03-21 |last=Beyersteine |first=Barry L. |coauthors=Susan Downie }}</ref><ref name="Beyerstein_NW"/> Naturopaths became licensed under naturopathic or drugless practitioner laws in 25 states in the first three decades of the twentieth century.<ref name=Baer2001 /> Naturopathy was adopted by many [[chiropractic|chiropractors]], and several schools offered both Doctor of Naturopathy (ND) and Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degrees.<ref name=Baer2001 /> Estimates of the number of naturopathic schools active in the United States during this period vary from about one to two dozen.<ref name=ACS /><ref name=ama_1997>{{cite web | url =http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/no-index/about-ama/13638.shtml | title = Report 12 of the Council on Scientific Affairs (A-97) | year = 1997 | publisher = [[American Medical Association]] |accessdate= |doi= |pmid= }}</ref><ref name=Baer2001 />
From 1901, Lust founded the American School of Naturopathy in [[New York (state)|New York]]. In 1902, the original North American Kneipp Societies were discontinued and renamed "Naturopathic Societies". In September 1919, the Naturopathic Society of America was dissolved and Benedict Lust founded the American Naturopathic Association to supplant it.<ref name="Baer2001" /><ref name="Beyerstein_NW">{{cite web |title= Naturopathy: A Critical Analysis |vauthors= Beyerstein BL, Downie S |date= May 12, 2004 |access-date= 2009-03-21 |work= NaturoWatch |publisher= QuackWatch |url= http://www.naturowatch.org/general/beyerstein.html |archive-date= March 7, 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090307135314/http://naturowatch.org/general/beyerstein.html |url-status= live }}</ref> Naturopaths became licensed under naturopathic or drugless practitioner laws in 25 states in the first three decades of the twentieth century.<ref name="Baer2001" /> Naturopathy was adopted by many [[chiropractic|chiropractors]], and several schools offered both Doctor of Naturopathy (ND) and Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degrees.<ref name="Baer2001" /> Estimates of the number of naturopathic schools active in the United States during this period vary from about one to two dozen.<ref name="ACS-2009" /><ref name="ama_1997">{{cite web |url= http://www.idt.mdh.se/kurser/ct3340/archives/ht03/assignment-2d-extra-articles/Alternative%20Medicine.pdf |title= Report 12 of the Council on Scientific Affairs (A-97) |year= 1997 |website=[[American Medical Association]] |access-date= September 3, 2013 |archive-date= November 5, 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131105123407/http://www.idt.mdh.se/kurser/ct3340/archives/ht03/assignment-2d-extra-articles/Alternative%20Medicine.pdf}}<!-- main link substituted with convenience copy -->
*{{lay source |template=cite web |title=1997 Annual Meeting of the American Medical Association: Summaries and Recommendations of the Council on Scientific Affairs |website=American Medical Association |url=http://www.ama-assn.org/resources/doc/csaph/csaa-97.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140102190820/http://www.ama-assn.org/resources/doc/csaph/csaa-97.pdf |archive-date=2014-01-02 |date=1997}}</ref><ref name="Baer2001" />


After a period of rapid growth, naturopathy went into decline for several decades after the 1930s. In 1910, the [[Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching]] published the [[Flexner Report]], which criticized many aspects of medical education, especially quality and lack of scientific rigour. The advent of [[penicillin]] and other "miracle drugs" and the consequent popularity of modern medicine also contributed to naturopathy's decline. In the 1940s and 1950s, a broadening in scope of practice laws led many chiropractic schools to drop their ND degrees, though many chiropractors continued to practice naturopathy. From 1940 to 1963, the [[American Medical Association]] campaigned against heterodox medical systems. By 1958, practice of naturopathy was licensed in only five states.<ref name=Baer2001 /> In 1968, the [[United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare]] issued a report on naturopathy concluding that naturopathy was not grounded in medical science and that naturopathic education was inadequate to prepare graduates to make appropriate diagnosis and provide treatment; the report recommends against expanding [[Medicare (United States)|Medicare]] coverage to include naturopathic treatments.<ref name=ACS /><ref name=HEW1968>{{cite book | last = Cohen | first = Wilbur J | authorlink = | coauthors = | title = Independent Practitioners Under Medicare: a report to the Congress | publisher = [[United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare]] | date = 1968-12 | location = | pages = | url=http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/hew.html | doi = | id = | isbn =}}</ref> In 1977, an Australian committee of inquiry reached similar conclusions; it did not recommend licensure for naturopaths.<ref name=Aust1977> {{cite book |author=Webb, Edwin C|title=Report of the Committee of Inquiry into Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Homoeopathy and Naturopathy |publisher=Australian Government Publishing Service |location=Canberra |year=1977 |pages=|isbn=064292287X |oclc= |doi= |url=http://www.naturowatch.org/hx/australia.html}}</ref> As of 2009, fifteen of fifty U.S. states licensed naturopathic doctors,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.naturopathic.org/content.asp?contentid=57 |title=Licensed States & Licensing Authorities |publisher=American Association of Naturopathic Physicians |date=2 July 2009}}</ref> and two states (WA, VT) require insurance companies to offer reimbursement for services provided by naturopathic physicians.<ref name="fammed.washington.edu">{{cite web |title=Naturopathic medicine |url=http://www.fammed.washington.edu/predoctoral/CAM/images/naturopathy.pdf |format=PDF |date=21 October 2004}}</ref>
After a period of rapid growth, naturopathy went into decline for several decades after the 1930s. In 1910, the [[Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching]] published the [[Flexner Report]], which criticized many aspects of medical education, especially quality and lack of scientific rigour. The advent of [[penicillin]] and other "miracle drugs" and the consequent popularity of modern medicine also contributed to naturopathy's decline. In the 1940s and 1950s, a broadening in scope of practice laws led many chiropractic schools to drop their ND degrees, though many chiropractors continued to practice naturopathy. From 1940 to 1963, the [[American Medical Association]] campaigned against heterodox medical systems. By 1958, practice of naturopathy was licensed in only five states.<ref name="Baer2001" /> In 1968, the [[United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare]] issued a report on naturopathy concluding that naturopathy was not grounded in medical science and that naturopathic education was inadequate to prepare graduates to make appropriate diagnosis and provide treatment; the report recommends against expanding [[Medicare (United States)|Medicare]] coverage to include naturopathic treatments.<ref name="ACS-2009" /><ref name="HEW1968">{{cite web |title=HEW Report on Naturopathy (1968) |url=http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/hew.html |author=<!-- no byline --> |date=August 30, 1999 |work=QuackWatch |access-date=2013-09-03 |archive-date=August 14, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100814052625/http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/hew.html |url-status=live }} Citing: {{cite book | vauthors = Cohen WJ |title=Independent Practitioners Under Medicare: A Report to the Congress |publisher=[[United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare]] |year= 1969 |oclc= 3000280 }}</ref> In 1977 an Australian committee of inquiry reached similar conclusions; it did not recommend licensure for naturopaths.<ref name="Aust1977">{{cite web |title=Naturopathy: Report of the Australian Committee of Inquiry (1977) |url=http://www.naturowatch.org/hx/australia.html |author=<!-- no byline --> |work=NaturoWatch |publisher=QuackWatch |date=December 25, 2003 |access-date=2013-09-03 |archive-date=September 6, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100906221113/http://www.naturowatch.org/hx/australia.html |url-status=live }} Citing: {{cite book | vauthors = Webb EC |title=Report of the Committee of Inquiry into Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Homoeopathy and Naturopathy |publisher=Australian Government Publishing Service |location=Canberra |year=1977 |isbn= 978-0-642-92287-8 |display-authors=etal}}</ref>


Beginning in the 1970s, there was a revival of interest in the United States and Canada, in conjunction with the "holistic health" movement.<ref name="Baer2001" /><ref name="Gale_Frey" /> {{as of|2009}}, fifteen U.S. states, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia licensed naturopathic doctors,<ref name="LicState">{{cite web |url=http://www.naturopathic.org/content.asp?contentid=57 |title=Licensed States & Licensing Authorities |work= American Association of Naturopathic Physicians website |author=<!-- no byline --> |publisher=<!-- redundant to website name --> |year=2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091130234327/http://naturopathic.org/content.asp?contentid=57 |archive-date=November 30, 2009 }}</ref> and the State of Washington requires insurance companies to offer reimbursement for services provided by naturopathic physicians.<ref name="WAC 284-43-205">{{cite web |title= Washington Administrative Code: Title 284, Chapter 43, Section 205: Every category of health providers |url= http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=284-43-205 |publisher= Washington State Legislature |date= August 28, 1999 |access-date= November 19, 2010 |archive-date= October 11, 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111011211431/http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=284-43-205 |url-status= live }} (effective)</ref><ref name="PBS_WA">{{cite episode |title=Insuring Alternatives |series=NewsHour with Jim Lehrer |series-link= PBS NewsHour | vauthors = Minott R |transcript=Online NewsHour transcript |transcript-url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/health/july96/alt_medicines_7-3.html |date=July 3, 1996 |network=[[PBS]]}}</ref> On the other hand, some states such as South Carolina and Tennessee prohibit the practice of naturopathy.<ref name="SC Code" /><ref name="TN Code" /><ref name="AMA-SOP-ND" />
Naturopathy never completely ceased to exist. Beginning in the 1970s, interest waxed in the United States and Canada in conjunction with the [[holistic health]] movement.<ref name=Gale_Frey>{{cite encyclopedia |last=Frey |first=Rebecca J |authorlink= |coauthors= |editor= |encyclopedia=Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine |title=Naturopathic Medicine |url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_g2601/is_0009/ai_2601000954|accessdate=2009-03-21 |edition= |year=2009 |month=March |publisher=[[Gale (Cengage)]] |volume= |location= |id= |doi= |pages= |quote= |isbn= |oclc= }}</ref><ref name=Baer2001 />


In the United States, the [[Indian Health Service]] began accepting naturopathic doctors in their clinics and practice in 2013, also making loan repayment available to ND's.<ref>"https://newsmaven.io/indiancountrytoday/archive/introducing-naturopathic-doctors-to-indian-health-service-clinics-Rn_RipOYh0Kgd9KR-5Ou_A/ {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191005024641/https://newsmaven.io/indiancountrytoday/archive/introducing-naturopathic-doctors-to-indian-health-service-clinics-Rn_RipOYh0Kgd9KR-5Ou_A/ |date=October 5, 2019 }}"</ref>
Today, there are nine schools of Traditional naturopathy offering certificate or degree programs accredited by the American Naturopathic Medical Accredation Board <ref> http://www.anmab.org/members.html</ref>The National Board Of Naturopathic Examiners of the ANA currently recognizes two schools offering Doctor of Naturopathy Degree (ND) programs. <Ref>Nationan Board of Naturopathic Examiners of the ANA, List of approved programs, American Naturopathic Association, Washington DC</ref>


In 2015, a former naturopathic doctor, [[Britt Marie Hermes]], began writing critically about her experience being trained in and practicing naturopathic medicine.<ref name="Senapathy2016" /><ref name="Thielking2016" /> Her blog garnered a large following among [[Skeptical movement|skeptics]] while enraging some proponents of alternative medicine.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Devlin |first1=Hannah |title=The naturopath whistleblower: 'It is surprisingly easy to sell snake oil' |url=https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2018/mar/27/naturopath-whistleblower-snake-oil-multi-billion-dollar |access-date=23 August 2021 |work=Guardian |date=27 March 2018}}</ref>
Naturopathic Medicine is represented with six accredited schools [[List of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Schools in North America|accredited naturopathic medical schools]] and one candidate for accreditation in North America. In 1956, Charles Stone, Frank Spaulding, and W. Martin Bleything established the [[National College of Natural Medicine]] (NCNM) in [[Portland, Oregon]] in response to plans by the [[Western States Chiropractic College]] to drop its ND program. In 1978, Sheila Quinn, Joseph Pizzorno, William Mitchell, and Les Griffith established John Bastyr College of Naturopathic Medicine (now [[Bastyr University]]) in [[Seattle, Washington]]. That same year, the [[Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine]] was founded in Toronto, Canada. More recently founded schools include the [[Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine]], founded in 1992, and [[Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine]], also founded in 1992. The [[University of Bridgeport]] in Connecticut grants Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degrees through the College of Naturopathic Medicine, and the [[National University of Health Sciences]] in Illinois recently developed a naturopathic program and is currently a candidate for accreditation.


<gallery widths="160" heights="200">
==Principles==
File:Portrait of Sebastian Kneipp. Wellcome L0005598.jpg|[[Sebastian Kneipp]] c. 1898, a Bavarian priest and forefather of naturopathy<ref name=Barrett-Naturopathy/>
Naturopathic ideology focuses on naturally-occurring and minimally-invasive methods, trusting to the "healing power of nature."<ref name=ACS /> Such treatments as "synthetic" drugs, radiation, and major surgery are avoided, and rejection of biomedicine and modern science in favor of an intuitive and vitalistic conception of the body and nature is common.<ref name=ACS /><ref name="Beyerstein_NW"/> Prevention through stress reduction and a healthy diet and lifestyle is emphasized. The philosophy of naturopathic practice is self-described by six core values.<ref name=ECHP>{{Cite book|url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=cwYnA1qunUwC&pg=PA58&dq=modalities+naturopathy&lr=&sig=ACfU3U3Z418Eg_P2yDetYOMmsclZ9mJGpg#PPA57,M1 |title=Encyclopedia of Complementary Health Practice |first=Carolyn Chambers |last=Clark |pages=57–58 |year=1999 |isbn=9780826112392 |publisher=Springer |location=New York }}</ref> Multiple versions exist in the form of the naturopathic doctor's oath,<ref name="oath">{{cite web|title=Naturopathic Doctor's Oath|url=http://www.naturopathic.org/viewbulletin.php?id=62}}</ref> various mission statements published by schools<ref name="ccnm-principles">{{cite web|title=Principles of Naturopathic Medicine |url=http://www.ccnm.edu/?q=about_ccnm/principles_naturopathic_medicine |accessdate= |doi= |pmid= }}</ref> or professional associations, and ethical conduct guidelines published by regulatory bodies:<ref name=BDDTN> {{cite web |title=Guide to the Ethical Conduct of Naturopathic Doctors |url=http://www.boardofnaturopathicmedicine.on.ca/pdf/guide_ethical_conduct.pdf|format=PDF}}</ref>
File:BenedictLust.jpg|[[Benedict Lust]] c. 1902, the founder of naturopathy in the U.S.<ref name=Baer2001/>
File:QED 20161015 129.jpg|Britt Marie Hermes c. 2016, a former naturopathic doctor and major critic of naturopathic medicine<ref name="Thielking2016">{{cite news|vauthors=Thielking M|title='Essentially witchcraft:' A former naturopath takes on the field|url=https://www.statnews.com/2016/10/20/naturopath-critic-britt-hermes/|access-date=30 October 2016|work=[[The Boston Globe#Stat|STAT]]|date=20 October 2016|archive-date=October 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161025031403/https://www.statnews.com/2016/10/20/naturopath-critic-britt-hermes/|url-status=live}}</ref>
</gallery>


== Practice ==
#First, do no harm; provide the most effective health care available with the least risk to patients at all times ([[primum non nocere]]).
[[File:Rational hydrotherapy - a manual of the physiological and therapeutic effects of hydriatic procedures, and the technique of their application in the treatment of disease (1902) (14760420036).jpg|thumb|250px|A patient undergoing a [[hydrotherapy]] session]]
#Recognize, respect and promote the self-healing power of nature inherent in each individual human being. ([[Vis medicatrix naturae]], a form of [[vitalism]]).<ref name="Di Stefano 2006">{{cite book|author=Vincent Di Stefano |title=Holism and Complementary Medicine: Origins and Principles|publisher=Allen & Unwin Academic |location= |year=2006 |page=107 |isbn=1741148464 |oclc= |doi=|accessdate=}}</ref>
[[File:Chromax II.JPG|thumb|250px|A nutritional supplement of [[Chromium(III) picolinate]], Chromax II]]
#Identify and remove the causes of illness, rather than eliminate or suppress symptoms (''Tolle Causum'').
[[File:Homeopathic332.JPG|250px|thumb|[[Homeopathic]] preparations are commonly used by naturopaths.<ref name="Boon HS" /><ref name="Caulfield2011" /> The practice is considered a [[pseudoscience]].<ref name="Smith2012">{{cite journal |vauthors=Smith K |title=Homeopathy is Unscientific and Unethical |journal=Bioethics |volume=26 |issue=9 |doi=10.1111/j.1467-8519.2011.01956.x |pages=508–512 |year=2012 |s2cid=143067523 |url=https://zenodo.org/record/1035885 |access-date=October 28, 2017 |archive-date=October 29, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171029012949/https://zenodo.org/record/1035885 |url-status=live }}</ref>]]
#Educate, inspire rational hope and encourage self-responsibility for health (''Doctor as Teacher'').
#Treat each person by considering all individual health factors and influences. (''Treat the Whole Person'').
#Emphasize the condition of health to promote well-being and to prevent diseases for the individual, each community and our world. (''Health Promotion, the Best Prevention'')


In 2003, a report<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Atwood |first=Kimball C. |date=2003-12-30 |title=Naturopathy: a critical appraisal |url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14745386/ |journal=MedGenMed: Medscape General Medicine |volume=5 |issue=4 |pages=39 |issn=1531-0132 |pmid=14745386}}</ref> was presented by [[Kimball Atwood|Kimball C. Atwood]], an American medical doctor and researcher from [[Newton, Massachusetts]], best known as a critic of naturopathic medicine, stating among other criticisms that "The practice of naturopathy is based on a belief in the body's ability to heal itself through a special [[vitalism|vital energy]] or force guiding bodily processes internally".<ref name="atwood2003" />
==Practice==
The focus of Naturopathy is on its philosophy of natural self-healing rather than specific methods, and practitioners use a wide variety of treatment modalities.<ref name=Gale_Frey /><ref name=Skepdic_naturopathy> {{cite web|url=http://skepdic.com/natpathy.html |title=Naturopathy |accessdate=2009-04-17 |last=Carroll |first=Robert Todd |work=Skeptic's Dictionary }}</ref> Some methods rely on immaterial "[[vitalism|vital energy fields]]," the existence of which has not been proven, and there is concern that naturopathy as a field tends towards isolation from general scientific discourse,<ref name=NCAHF_np /><ref name=Herbert1994>{{cite book |author=Herbert Victor, Barrett Stephen |title=The vitamin pushers: how the "health food" industry is selling America a bill of goods |publisher=Prometheus Books |location=Buffalo, New York |year=1994 |pages= |isbn=0-87975-909-7 |oclc= |doi= |accessdate=}}</ref><ref name="isbn0-87975-761-2">{{cite book |author=Barrett, Stephen; Raso, Jack |title=Mystical diets: paranormal, spiritual, and occult nutrition practices |publisher=Prometheus Books |location=Buffalo, New York |year=1993 |pages= |isbn=0-87975-761-2 |oclc= |doi= |accessdate=}}</ref> though Bastyr, NCNM and CCNM currently maintain research programs.<ref>{{cite web |http://bastyr.edu/research/default.asp |title=Bastyr University Research Institute |publisher=Bastyr University |accessdate=2010-01-27}} (primary source)</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://helfgott.org/ |title=Helfgott Research Institute |publisher=Helfgott |date= |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ccnm.edu/?q=research_0 |title=Research |publisher=The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine |date= |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> Bastyr also receives research funding from the NIH, a relationship that began in 1984, when Bastyr became the first naturopathic school to receive a research grant from the NIH.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bastyr.edu/news/news.asp?NewsID=1607 |title=Students and Graduates Receive CAM Research Training Under NIH Grant |publisher=Bastyr University |date=2008-11-05 |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> The effectiveness of naturopathy as a whole system has not been systematically evaluated, and efficacy of individual methods used varies.<ref name=ACS /><ref name=ToT_Ernst>{{cite book |author2=Ernst E|author2-link=Edzard Ernst|author1=Singh S |title=Trick or treatment : the undeniable facts about alternative medicine |publisher=W. W. Norton |location=New York |year=2008 |pages= |isbn=0393066614 |oclc=181139440}}</ref>


Diagnosis and treatment concern primarily [[alternative medicine|alternative therapies]] and "natural" methods that naturopaths claim promote the body's natural ability to heal.<ref name="Gale_Frey" /><ref name="Skepdic_naturopathy">{{cite web |url= http://skepdic.com/natpathy.html |title= Naturopathy |access-date= March 21, 2015 |date= March 7, 2015 |vauthors= Carroll RT |work= [[The Skeptic's Dictionary]] |archive-date= September 1, 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100901033549/http://www.skepdic.com/natpathy.html |url-status= live }}</ref> Many naturopaths in India now use modern diagnostic techniques in their practice.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Nair |first1=Pradeep MK |last2=Nanda |first2=Awantika |title=Naturopathic medicine in India: Original Article |journal=Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies |date=September 2014 |volume=19 |issue=3 |pages=140–147 |doi=10.1111/fct.12125 }}</ref> Naturopaths focus on a [[holistic]] approach, avoiding the use of surgery and conventional medicines.<ref name="ACS-2009" /> Naturopaths aim to prevent illness through stress reduction and changes to diet and lifestyle, often rejecting the methods of evidence-based medicine.<ref name="Jagtenberg2006" /><ref name="ECHP">{{cite book |veditors= Clark CC, Gordon RJ |title= Encyclopedia of Complementary Health Practice |chapter-url= https://books.google.com/books?id=cwYnA1qunUwC&pg=PA57 |access-date= 2013-09-03 |year= 1999 |publisher= [[Springer Publishing]] |isbn= 978-0-8261-1722-9 |pages= 57–59 |chapter= Naturopathy: Practice Issues |vauthors= Pizzorno JE |archive-date= April 13, 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180413121208/https://books.google.com/books?id=cwYnA1qunUwC&pg=PA57 |url-status= live }}</ref>
A consultation typically begins with a lengthy patient interview focusing on lifestyle, medical history, emotional tone, and physical features, as well as physical examination.<ref name=Gale_Frey /> The traditional naturopath focuses on lifestyle changes and approaches that support the body's innate healing potential. Traditional naturopaths do not undertake to diagnose or treat diseases but concentrates on whole body wellness and facilitating the body healing itself. Traditional Naturopaths neither prescribe nor undertake to engage in the use of drugs, serums, potions, surgery or disease specific treatments or otherwise practice conventional medicine.<ref>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/naturopathy/</ref> Practitioners of naturopathic medicine hold themselves to be primary care providers and in addition to various natural approaches seek to prescribe legend drugs, perform minor surgery and apply other conventional medical approaches to their practice. Naturopaths do not necessarily recommend [[vaccine controversy|vaccines]] and [[antibiotic]]s, and may provide inappropriate alternative remedies even in cases where [[evidence-based medicine]] has been shown effective.<ref name="Downey2009" /><ref name=LiveSci2004 /> All forms of naturopathic education include concepts incompatible with basic science, and do not necessarily prepare a practitioner to make appropriate diagnosis or referrals.<ref name="ToT_Ernst"/><ref name=LiveSci2004 /><ref name=MassMed2005 />


A consultation typically begins with a comprehensive patient interview assessing lifestyle, medical history, emotional tone, and physical features, as well as physical examination.<ref name="Gale_Frey" /> Many naturopaths present themselves as [[Primary care physician|primary care providers]], and some naturopathic physicians may prescribe [[prescription drug|drugs]], perform minor surgery, and integrate other conventional medical approaches such as diet and lifestyle counselling with their naturopathic practice.<ref name="Gale_Frey" /><ref name="CNME-handbook">{{cite web |url= http://www.cnme.org/resources/2007_hoa.pdf |title= Handbook of Accreditation for Naturopathic Medicine Programs |year= 2007 |publisher= Council on Naturopathic Medical Education |access-date= 2010-11-20 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170209083708/http://www.cnme.org/resources/2007_hoa.pdf |archive-date= February 9, 2017 |url-status= dead }}</ref> Traditional naturopaths deal exclusively with lifestyle changes, not diagnosing or treating disease. Naturopaths do not generally recommend vaccines and [[antibiotic]]s, based in part on the early views that shaped the profession, and they may provide alternative remedies even in cases where evidence-based medicine has been shown effective.<ref name="tot" />
Less than 50% of naturopaths saying they would refer a 2-week-old infant with a [[fever]] resulting in a situation were real harm could result.<ref>{{cite journal |author=Yussman SM, Ryan SA, Auinger P, Weitzman M |title=Visits to complementary and alternative medicine providers by children and adolescents in the United States |journal=Ambul Pediatr |volume=4 |issue=5 |pages=429–35 |year=2004 |pmid=15369404 |doi=10.1367/A03-091R1.1 |url=}}</ref>


===Methods===
=== Methods ===
Naturopaths are often opposed to mainstream medicine and take an [[antivaccinationist]] stance.<ref name="tot">{{cite book |vauthors=Singh S, Ernst E |work=Trick or Treatment?: Alternative Medicine on Trial |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=nWnR1JI7G6gC&pg=PT197 |year=2009 |publisher=Transworld |isbn=978-1-4090-8180-7 |pages=197– |title=Naturopathy |quote=many naturopaths are against mainstream medicine and advise their patients accordingly{{snd}}for instance many are not in favour of vaccination. |access-date=January 27, 2016 |archive-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206135211/https://books.google.com/books?id=nWnR1JI7G6gC&pg=PT197 |url-status=live }}</ref>
The particular modalities utilized by an individual naturopath varies with training and scope of practice. The demonstrated efficacy and scientific rationale also varies. These include: [[Acupuncture]], [[Applied kinesiology]],<ref name=PoaP /> [[Botanical medicine]], [[Brainwave entrainment]], [[Chelation therapy#Heart disease|Chelation therapy]] for atherosclerosis,<ref name=atwood2004 /> [[Colon cleansing|Colonic enemas]],<ref name=Barrett-Naturopathy /> [[Color therapy]],<ref name=PoaP>{{Cite book |url=http://www.pewscholars.com/pdf_files/Naturo2.pdf |format=PDF |title=Profile of a profession: naturopathic practice |author=Holly J. Hough, Catherine Dower, Edward H. O’Neil |publisher=Center for the Health Professions, University of California |month=September | year=2001 |page=54 |doi= |accessdate= }}</ref> [[Cranial osteopathy]],<ref name=LiveSci2004 /> [[Hair analysis (alternative medicine)|Hair analysis]],<ref name=LiveSci2004>{{cite news | first=Andrew A. | last=Skolnick | coauthors= |authorlink= | title=Voice of Reason: Licensing Naturopaths May Be Hazardous to Your Health | date=2004-11-18 | publisher= | url =http://www.livescience.com/health/naturopathy_license_041118.html | work =Live Science | pages = | accessdate = 2009-04-17 | language = }}</ref> [[Homeopathy]],<ref name="Boon HS"/> [[Iridology]],<ref name=PoaP/> [[Live blood analysis]], ''Nature cure'' - a range of therapies based upon exposure to natural elements such as [[sunshine]], [[fresh air]], heat, or cold, [[Nutrition]] (examples include [[vegetarian]] and [[wholefood]] diet, [[fasting]], and [[abstention]] from [[alcohol]] and [[sugar]]),<ref name=dummy>{{Cite book |title=Complementary Medicine for Dummies |author=Jacqueline Young |chapters=8, 13 |isbn=9780470026250|year=2007|publisher=Wiley |location=Chichester, England |oclc=174043853}}</ref> [[Ozone therapy]],<ref name=ACS /> [[Physical medicine]] (includes naturopathic, osseous, and soft tissue [[manipulative therapy]], [[sports medicine]], [[Physical exercise|exercise]] and [[hydrotherapy]]), [[Counseling psychology|Psychological counseling]] (examples include [[meditation]], [[relaxation]], and other methods of [[stress management]]<ref name=dummy />), [[Public health]] measures and [[hygiene]],<ref name=ECHP /> [[Reflexology]],<ref name=PoaP /> [[Rolfing]],<ref name=Beyerstein_NW /> and [[Traditional Chinese medicine]].


The particular modalities used by a naturopath vary with training and scope of practice. These may include [[herbalism]], [[homeopathy]],<ref name="Boon HS" /> [[acupuncture]], nature cures, [[Physical medicine and rehabilitation|physical medicine]], [[applied kinesiology]],<ref name="PoaP" /> [[Colon cleansing|colonic enemas]],<ref name="Barrett-Naturopathy" /><ref name="Caulfield2011">{{cite journal | vauthors = Caulfield T, Rachul C | title = Supported by science?: what canadian naturopaths advertise to the public | journal = Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology | volume = 7 | pages = 14 | date = September 2011 | issue = 1 | pmid = 21920039 | pmc = 3182944 | doi = 10.1186/1710-1492-7-14 | doi-access = free }}</ref> [[Chelation therapy#Cardiovascular disease|chelation therapy]],<ref name="atwood2004">{{cite journal | vauthors = Atwood KC | title = Naturopathy, pseudoscience, and medicine: myths and fallacies vs truth | journal = MedGenMed | volume = 6 | issue = 1 | pages = 33 | date = March 2004 | pmid = 15208545 | pmc = 1140750 }}</ref> [[color therapy]],<ref name="PoaP">{{Cite book |url= http://www.pewscholars.com/pdf_files/Naturo2.pdf |title= Profile of a Profession: Naturopathic Practice | vauthors = Hough HJ, Dower C, O'Neil EH |publisher= Center for the Health Professions, [[University of California, San Francisco]] |date=September 2001 |page= 54 |url-status= dead |archive-date= 2008-10-02 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081002072928/http://www.pewscholars.com/pdf_files/Naturo2.pdf }}</ref> [[cranial osteopathy]], [[Hair analysis (alternative medicine)|hair analysis]], [[iridology]],<ref name="PoaP" /> [[live blood analysis]], [[ozone therapy]],<ref name="ACS-2009" /> [[psychotherapy]], [[public health]] measures and [[hygiene]],<ref name="ECHP" /> [[reflexology]],<ref name="PoaP" /> [[rolfing]],<ref name="Beyerstein_NW" /> [[massage therapy]], and [[traditional Chinese medicine]]. ''Nature cures'' include a range of therapies based on exposure to natural elements such as [[sunshine]], fresh air, or heat or cold, as well as [[nutrition]] advice such as following a [[vegetarian]] and [[whole food]] diet, [[fasting]], or [[Abstinence|abstention]] [[Teetotalism|from alcohol]] and [[sugar]].<ref name="dummy">{{Cite book |url=https://archive.org/details/complementarymed0000youn |title=Complementary Medicine for Dummies |vauthors=Young J |publisher=Wiley |year=2007 |isbn=978-0-470-02625-0 |location=Chichester, England |chapter=Chapters 8 & 13 |oclc=174043853 |url-access=registration}}</ref> Physical medicine includes naturopathic, osseous, or soft tissue [[manipulative therapy]], [[sports medicine]], [[Physical exercise|exercise]], and [[hydrotherapy]]. Psychological counseling includes [[meditation]], [[Relaxation technique|relaxation]], and other methods of [[stress management]].<ref name="dummy" />
A 2004 survey determined the most commonly prescribed naturopathic therapeutics in Washington State and Connecticut were botanical medicines, vitamins, minerals, homeopathy, and allergy treatments.<ref name="Boon HS">{{cite journal |journal=BMC Complement Altern Med |year=2004 |volume=20 |issue=4 |pages=14 |title=Practice patterns of naturopathic physicians: results from a random survey of licensed practitioners in two US States|author= Boon HS, Cherkin DC, Erro J, Sherman KJ, Milliman B, Booker J, Cramer EH, Smith MJ, Deyo RA, Eisenberg DM |url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC529271/?tool=pubmed |doi= |pmid=15496231}}</ref>


A 2004 survey determined the most commonly prescribed naturopathic therapeutics in [[Washington (state)|Washington state]] and [[Connecticut]] were botanical medicines, vitamins, minerals, homeopathy, and allergy treatments.<ref name="Boon HS">{{cite journal | vauthors = Boon HS, Cherkin DC, Erro J, Sherman KJ, Milliman B, Booker J, Cramer EH, Smith MJ, Deyo RA, Eisenberg DM | title = Practice patterns of naturopathic physicians: results from a random survey of licensed practitioners in two US States | journal = BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine | volume = 4 | pages = 14 | date = October 2004 | pmid = 15496231 | pmc = 529271 | doi = 10.1186/1472-6882-4-14 | doi-access = free }}</ref> An examination published in 2011 of naturopathic clinic websites in [[Alberta]] and [[British Columbia]] found that the most commonly advertised therapies were homeopathy, botanical medicine, nutrition, acupuncture, lifestyle counseling, and detoxification.<ref name="Caulfield2011" />
==Practitioners==
Naturopathic practitioners can be split into two groups.<ref>The Platform of the American Naturopathic Association as drawn up by the Golden Jubilee Congress. July 27th – August 2nd, 1947</ref><ref>http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/hpsc/hop/nawg/summary092308.pdf</ref><ref>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/naturopathy/</ref><ref>http://medicalboard.iowa.gov/Naturopathy.html</ref>


In 2020, a survey of methods used by naturopaths in fourteen countries reported that 27% of clients received acupuncture, 22% homeopathy, 16% "other energetic medicines", and 13.5% were given hydrotherapy. A mean of 4.0 "treatments" were provided to each customer. One-third (33%) of patients consulted with only the naturopath to manage their primary health concern.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Steel A, Foley H, Bradley R, Van De Venter C, Lloyd I, Schloss J, Wardle J, Reid R | title = Overview of international naturopathic practice and patient characteristics: results from a cross-sectional study in 14 countries | journal = BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies | volume = 20 | issue = 1 | pages = 59 | date = February 2020 | pmid = 32070338 | pmc = 7076821 | doi = 10.1186/s12906-020-2851-7 | doi-access = free }}</ref>
1. 'Traditional' naturopaths are represented in the US by two National Organizations, The American Naturopathic Association (ANA) Founded by Benedict Lust ND, MD in 1909,<ref>American Naturopathic Association Certificate of Incorporation and Standing, Issued by the DC Department of Consumer Affairs, Corporate Division. </ref> representing about 5000 certified practitioners <ref>The Encyclopedia of associations: 40th edition pp 1594</ref>{{Verify source|date=January 2010}} and the American Naturopathic Medical Association (ANMA) founded in 1981 and representing about 4500 practitioners with several levels of certification.<ref>http://anma.org/</ref> The ANMA also recognizes MDs, DOs and other conventional medical professionals who have integrated naturopathy into their practices.<ref name=ACS />


=== Evidence basis ===
The level of naturopathic training varies among traditional naturopaths in the United States. Traditional naturopaths may complete non-degree certificate programs or undergraduate degree programs and can certify at a practitioner level with the American Naturopathic Medical Certification and Accreditation Board (ANMCAB) and generally refer to themselves as Naturopathic Consultants. <ref>http://www.anmcb.org/</ref> There are also post graduate doctoral degrees for traditional naturopaths. Those completing a Doctor of Naturopathy (ND) degree from an ANMCAB approved school can become a Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor with the ANMCAB <ref>ibid</ref> traditional naturopaths completing a Doctor of Naturopathy (ND) degree at an National Board of Naturopathic Examiners of the ANA (NBNE) approved school can obtain certification becoming a delegate of the ANA <ref>Standardized Naturopathy, Dr. Paul Wendel, ND, MD, DC, DO ©1951</ref>. Medical Doctors (MD) or Doctors of Osteopathy (DO) with supplemental training in Naturopathy can become National Board Certified Naturopathic Physicians through the ANMCAB.<ref>http://www.anmcb.org/</ref> Traditional naturopathy, Was first recognized and defined by the US Congress on February 27, 1929. <ref>Chap. 352 @ 1326, 5.3936, Public No. 831 [also found as 45 St. 1339] dated February 27, 1929 and its clarifying amendments H.R. 12169 of May 5, 1930 & January 28, 1931 and corresponding House Report #2432 of January 30, 1930. </ref> This definition has been affirmed by the National Institutes of Health <ref>NCCAM Publication No. D372, http://nccam.nih.gov/health/naturopathy/</ref> which has also affirmed "Traditional naturopaths are not subject to licensing." <ref>ibid</ref> <ref>Lawton v. Steele, 152 U.S. 133 (1894)</ref><Ref> Riley v. R.I. Dep’t of Envtl. Mgmt., 941 A.2d 198, 206 (R.I. 2008)</ref><ref>262 US 390 Meyer v. State of Nebraska</ref><ref>239 US 33 William Truax v. Mike Raich</ref>
{{See also|Evidence-based medicine}}
[[File:Soapsuds Enemas.jpg|right|thumb|upright|Equipment for administering large [[enema]]s: a bag and a bucket, each holding a gallon. Enemas and [[Colon cleansing|colonic irrigation]] are commonly used by naturopaths for a wide range of medical conditions,<ref name="Caulfield2011" /> for which there are no known health benefits.<ref name="Ernst1997">{{cite journal |last1=Ernst |first1=E. |title=Colonic Irrigation and the Theory of Autointoxication: A Triumph of Ignorance over Science |journal=Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology |date=June 1997 |volume=24 |issue=4 |pages=196–198 |doi=10.1097/00004836-199706000-00002 |pmid=9252839 |doi-access=free }}</ref>]]
[[File:Rectal bulb syringe.jpg|right|thumb|upright|A rectal bulb syringe for injecting a small enema]]
[[File:Ozone IV Therapy AMA Skincare.jpg|alt=Patient undergoing Ozone IV Therapy|thumb|upright|Person undergoing ozone IV therapy with ultraviolet irradiation. According to the [[FDA]], "Ozone is a toxic gas with no known useful medical application in specific, adjunctive, or preventive therapy."<ref name="FDAozone">{{cite web|title=Code of Federal Regulations Title 21, Sec. 801.415 Maximum acceptable level of ozone|url=http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRsearch.cfm?fr=801.415|website=U.S. Food and Drug Administration|access-date=18 May 2016|date=1 April 2015|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304035650/http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?FR=801.415|url-status=live}}</ref>]]


Naturopathy as a whole lacks an adequate scientific basis,<ref name="Jagtenberg2006">{{cite journal | vauthors = Jagtenberg T, Evans S, Grant A, Howden I, Lewis M, Singer J | title = Evidence-based medicine and naturopathy | journal = Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine | volume = 12 | issue = 3 | pages = 323–328 | date = April 2006 | pmid = 16646733 | doi = 10.1089/acm.2006.12.323}}</ref> and it is rejected by the medical community.<ref name="Jagtenberg2006" /> Although it includes valid lifestyle advice from mainstream medicine (healthy sleep, balanced diet, regular exercise),<ref name="tot" /> it typically adds a range of pseudoscientific beliefs.<ref name="NCAHF_np" /> Some methods rely on immaterial "vital energy fields", the existence of which has not been proven, and there is concern that naturopathy as a field tends towards isolation from general scientific discourse.<ref name="NCAHF_np" /><ref name="Herbert1994">{{cite book | vauthors = Herbert V, Barrett S |title= The Vitamin Pushers: How the "Health Food" Industry is Selling America a Bill of Goods |publisher= Prometheus Books |location= Buffalo, NY |year= 1994 |isbn= 978-0-87975-909-4 |url= https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780879759094 }}</ref><ref name="isbn0-87975-761-2">{{cite book | vauthors = Barrett S, Raso J |title=Mystical Diets: Paranormal, Spiritual, and Occult Nutrition Practices |publisher=Prometheus Books |location=Buffalo, New York |year=1993 |isbn=978-0-87975-761-8 |url=https://archive.org/details/mysticaldietspar0000raso }}</ref> Naturopathy is criticized for its reliance on and its association with unproven, disproven, and other controversial alternative medical treatments, and for its vitalistic underpinnings.<ref name="tot" /><ref name="ACS-2009" /> Natural substances known as [[nutraceutical]]s show little promise in treating diseases, especially cancer, as laboratory experiments have shown limited therapeutic effect on [[biochemical pathway]]s, while clinical trials demonstrate poor [[bioavailability]].<ref name="neut">{{cite journal | vauthors = Ahmad A, Ginnebaugh KR, Li Y, Padhye SB, Sarkar FH | title = Molecular targets of naturopathy in cancer research: bridge to modern medicine | journal = Nutrients | volume = 7 | issue = 1 | pages = 321–334 | date = January 2015 | pmid = 25569626 | pmc = 4303842 | doi = 10.3390/nu7010321 | type = Review | doi-access = free }}</ref> According to the [[American Cancer Society]], "scientific evidence does not support claims that naturopathic medicine can cure [[cancer]] or any other disease".<ref name="ACS-2009" /> According to Britt Hermes, naturopath student programs are problematic because "As a naturopath [student], you are making justifications to make the rules and to fudge the standards of how to interpret research all along the way. Because if you don't, you're not left with anything, basically".<ref name="ESP50">{{cite web |title=Episode #050, feat. Britt Hermes |url=http://theesp.eu/podcast_archive/episode_050_britt_hermes.html |website=The European Skeptics Podcast |date=November 29, 2016 |access-date=15 September 2018 |archive-date=September 9, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909000353/http://theesp.eu/podcast_archive/episode_050_britt_hermes.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
2. Naturopathic Medicine is represented in the US by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) founded in 1985 and representing 2000 student, physicians, supporting and corporate members. <ref>http://www.naturopathic.org/content.asp?pl=9&contentid=9</ref>
<ref name=ACS /> Because naturopathic medicine undertakes to engage in activities generally requiring a medical license, its practice is only legal in those 15 states that regulate the profession.


In 2015, the [[Department of Health (Australia)|Australian Government's Department of Health]] published the results of a review of alternative therapies that sought to determine if any were suitable for being covered by [[health insurance]]; Naturopathy was one of 17 therapies evaluated for which no clear evidence of effectiveness was found.<ref name="aus17">{{cite web |url=http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/0E9129B3574FCA53CA257BF0001ACD11/$File/Natural%20Therapies%20Overview%20Report%20Final%20with%20copyright%2011%20March.pdf |publisher=Australian Government – Department of Health |author=Baggoley C |title=Review of the Australian Government Rebate on Natural Therapies for Private Health Insurance |year=2015 |access-date=December 12, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160626024750/http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/0E9129B3574FCA53CA257BF0001ACD11/$File/Natural%20Therapies%20Overview%20Report%20Final%20with%20copyright%2011%20March.pdf |archive-date=June 26, 2016}}
===Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine===
*{{lay source |template=cite web |author=Gavura, S. |date=19 November 2015 |title=Australian review finds no benefit to 17 natural therapies |url=https://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org/australian-review-finds-no-benefit-to-17-natural-therapies |website=Science-Based Medicine}}</ref>
{{Main|Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine}}
{{Globalize|date=January 2010}}<!--Concentrates almost solely on the exceptions: A few US states.-->
'''Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine (NMD)''' <ref>http://www2.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/accreditation_pg8.html</ref> or a similar term is a protected designation with some form of licensing and training requirements in at least 15 US states<!-- please maintain consistency with Regulation in North America described below -->, the District of Columbia, the US territories of Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, and five Canadian provinces.<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite web |url=http://www.naturopathic.org/viewbulletin.php?id=118 |title=American Association of Naturopathic Physicians |publisher= |doi= |pmid= |accessdate=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cand.ca |publisher=Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors |title=Welcome |doi= |pmid= |accessdate= }}</ref> In these jurisdictions, naturopathic doctors must pass board exams set by the [[North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners]] (NABNE)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nabne.org |title=NABNE |publisher=North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners |doi= |pmid= |accessdate= }}</ref> after completing academic and clinical training at a college certified by the [[Council on Naturopathic Medical Education]] (CNME).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cnme.org |title=Council on Naturopathic Medical Education |publisher= |doi= |pmid= |accessdate= }}</ref> The CNME is formally recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as the accrediting body for naturopathic medical programs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/accreditation_pg8.html |title=College Accreditation in the United States- Pg 8 |publisher=Ed.gov |date=2009-09-09 |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> Residency programs are offered at Bastyr University,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bastyr.edu/education/naturopath/degree/training.asp |title=Bastyr University : Degree : Naturopathic Medicine |publisher=Bastyr.edu |date=2009-05-28 |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> NCNM,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ncnm.edu/naturopathic-medicine-residency-program.php |title=National College of Natural Medicine - Naturopathic Medicine Residency Program |publisher=Ncnm.edu |date=2009-01-26 |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> SCNM,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://scnm.edu/residencies.html |title=Residencies at SCNM |publisher=Scnm.edu |date= |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> CCNM,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ccnm.edu/?q=clinical_resident |title=Clinical Residency at The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine |publisher=Ccnm.edu |date=2008-02-04 |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> and the University of Bridgeport.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bridgeport.edu/pages/2657.asp |title=Residency Programs at Bridgeport |publisher=Bridgeport.edu |date= |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> Doctos of Naturopathic Medicine are not required to engage in residency training.<ref name=ACS /> Many naturopaths present themselves as [[primary care physician|primary care providers]].<ref name=Gale_Frey /><ref name="CNME-handbook">{{cite web|url=http://www.cnme.org/resources/2007_hoa.pdf |title=Handbook of Accreditation for Naturopathic Medicine Programs |format=PDF |page=45 |publisher=Council on Naturopathic Medical Education |doi= |pmid= |accessdate= }}</ref><ref name=atwood2003 /> ND training includes the use of basic medical diagnostic tests and procedures such as [[medical imaging]], minor surgery, and [[blood test]]s. The CNME also provides for the inclusion of optional modalities including minor [[surgery]], [[natural childbirth]] and [[intravenous therapy]], though they are not generally licensed to perform these functions; these modalities require additional training and may not be within the scope of practice in all jurisdictions. This training differs from that undertaken by [[Doctor of Medicine|MDs]] as it requires therapies which are not required at medical school, such as botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, naturopathic manipulation and homeopathy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aanmc.org/education/academic-curriculum.php |title=Academic Curriculum - Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges |publisher=Aanmc.org |date= |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> Naturopathic school also teach vitalism,<ref name=Gale_Frey /> a concept that has been called irreconcilable with modern science and medicine.<ref name=Gale_Frey /><ref name=Barrett-Naturopathy/><ref name=atwood2004 /><ref name=atwood2003 /><ref name=McKnight2009 /> Homeopathy is highly disputed, and is often cited as "[[quackery]]" or "[[pseudoscience]]".<ref name=Gale_Frey /><ref name="atwood2004"/><ref name=ACS />


[[Kimball C. Atwood IV]] writes, in the journal ''Medscape General Medicine'',<ref name="atwood2003" />{{blockquote|Naturopathic physicians now claim to be primary care physicians proficient in the practice of both "conventional" and "natural" medicine. Their training, however, amounts to a small fraction of that of medical doctors who practice primary care. An examination of their literature, moreover, reveals that it is replete with pseudoscientific, ineffective, unethical, and potentially dangerous practices.|author=|title=|source=}} In another article, Atwood writes that "Physicians who consider naturopaths to be their colleagues thus find themselves in opposition to one of the fundamental ethical precepts of modern medicine. If naturopaths are not to be judged "nonscientific practitioners", the term has no useful meaning".<ref name="atwood2004" />
In 2005, the [[Massachusetts Medical Society]] opposed licensure in the commonwealth based on concerns that Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine are not required to participate in residency, and may also suggest inappropriate or harmful treatments.<ref name=MassMed2005>{{cite news | first=Richard P. | last=Gulla | coauthors= |authorlink= | title=Massachusetts Medical Society Testifies in Opposition to Licensing Naturopaths | date=2005-05-11 | publisher= | url =http://www.massmed.org/AM/PrinterTemplate.cfm?Section=Home&CONTENTID=12458&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm | work = | pages = | accessdate = 2009-04-17 | language = }}</ref> The Massachusetts Special Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medical Practitioners rejected their concerns and recommended licensure.<ref name=MassCtte>{{cite web |url=http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/majority.pdf |format=PDF|title=Majority Report of the Special Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medical Practitioners: A Report to the Legislature |month=January | year=2002}}</ref>


A former licensed naturopathic doctor, Britt Marie Hermes, states that "any product that is sold by a naturopath almost guarantees that there is no reliable scientific data to support whatever health claims are made,<ref name="Haglage">{{cite news|vauthors=Haglage A, Mak T|title=Trump Vitamins Were Fortified With B.S.|url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/05/25/inside-donald-trump-s-vitamin-scam.html|access-date=24 June 2016|work=The Daily Beast|date=25 May 2016|archive-date=January 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003653/https://www.thedailybeast.com/trump-vitamins-were-fortified-with-bs|url-status=live}}</ref> and that while some naturopaths claim to only practice evidence based medicine, "the problem is, all naturopaths in an accredited naturopathic program are required to extensively study homeopathy, herbal medicine, energy healing, chiropractic techniques, water therapy" and other pseudoscientific practices.<ref name="ESP50" /> Hermes further notes that, while some naturopaths claim that their method can be effective treatments for psychological disorders, "no naturopathic treatment has been clinically proven to be safe and effective for bipolar disorder or any other condition."<ref name="DubiousclaimsHermesSI">{{cite journal | vauthors = Hermes B |title=Dubious claims in psychotherapy for youth |journal=Skeptical Inquirer |date=April 2020 |volume=44 |issue=2 |page=50 |url=https://skepticalinquirer.org/2020/01/dubious-claims-in-psychotherapy-for-youth/ }}</ref>
The core set of interventions defined by the [[Council on Naturopathic Medical Education]] and taught at all six accredited schools in North America includes:<ref name="cnme-handbook">{{cite web |url=http://www.cnme.org/resources/2007_hoa.pdf|format=PDF |title= Handbook of accreditation for Naturopathic Programs |year=2008 |page=51 |publisher=Council on Naturopathic Medical Education |doi= |pmid= |accessdate= }}</ref> [[acupuncture]] and [[Traditional Chinese medicine]], [[botanical medicine]], [[homeopathy]], ''nature cure'' (a range of therapies based upon exposure to natural elements), [[nutrition]], [[physical medicine]], and [[counseling psychology|psychological counseling]].


According to [[Arnold S. Relman]], the ''Textbook of Natural Medicine'' is inadequate as a teaching tool, as it omits to mention or treat in detail many common ailments, improperly emphasizes treatments "not likely to be effective" over those that are, and promotes unproven herbal remedies at the expense of pharmaceuticals. He concludes that "the risks to many sick patients seeking care from the average naturopathic practitioner would far outweigh any possible benefits".<ref name="Relman_text">{{cite web |url= http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/relman1.html |title= Textbook of Natural Medicine |access-date= 2009-04-17 |vauthors= Relman AS |author-link= Arnold S. Relman |orig-date= January 9, 2001 |date= April 10, 2002 |publisher= QuackWatch |archive-date= May 11, 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110511175643/http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/relman1.html |url-status= live }}</ref>
In the state of Washington, where naturopathic doctors are licensed comparably to primary care physicians,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=18.36A&full=true |title=Chapter 18.36A RCW: Naturopathy |publisher=Apps.leg.wa.gov |date= |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref> many naturopathic doctors also accept insurance, with some plans offering the option of designating a naturopath as a primary care provider.<ref name="fammed.washington.edu" /> In Connecticut and Washington, state law requires insurance providers to provide some coverage of naturopathic services, while Oregon, another state with significant numbers of naturopathic doctors, does not.<ref name="fammed.washington.edu"/>


The Massachusetts Medical Society states, "Naturopathic practices are unchanged by research and remain a large assortment of erroneous and potentially dangerous claims mixed with a sprinkling of non-controversial dietary and lifestyle advice."<ref name="MMStestimony2015" />
===Other health care professionals===
According to a 1998 taskforce report, some physicians are choosing to add naturopathic modalities to their practice,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.futurehealth.ucsf.edu/pdf_files/RTF.PDF |format=PDF |author=Finocchio LJ, Dower CM, Blick NT, Gragnola CM and the Taskforce on Health Care Workforce Regulation |title=Strengthening Consumer Protection: Priorities for Health Care Workforce Regulation |publisher=Pew Health Professions Commission |location=San Francisco |year=1998 |month=October |accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> and states such as Texas have begun to establish practice guidelines for MDs who integrate alternative and complementary medicine into their practice.<ref>Texas Administrative Code title 22, part 9 § 200.3, 1998</ref> Continuing education in naturopathic modalities for health care professionals varies greatly but includes offerings for many professions, including [[physician]]s, [[physical therapy|physical therapists]], [[chiropractor]]s, [[acupuncture|acupuncturists]], [[dentistry|dentists]], [[Doctor of Philosophy|researchers]], [[veterinarian]]s, [[physician assistant]]s, and [[Registered Nurses|nurses]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.futurehealth.ucsf.edu/pdf_files/Naturo2.pdf |format=PDF |author=Hough HJ, Dower C, O’Neil EH |title=Profile of a profession: naturopathic practice |publisher=Center for the Health Professions, University of California, San Francisco |location=San Francisco |year=2001 |month=September |doi= |pmid= |accessdate=2009-04-21 }}</ref> These professionals usually retain their original designation but may use terms such as 'holistic', 'natural', or 'integrative' to describe their practice. The American Naturopathic Medical Association (ANMA) and American Naturopathic Medical Certification and Accreditation Board (ANMCAB) has recognition and certification programs for Medical Doctors (MD) and Doctors of Osteopathy (DO) who have supplemented their education with naturopathic studies and integrate naturopathy into their practice. <ref>http://www.anmcb.org/</ref>


=== Safety of natural treatments ===
==Regulation==
Naturopaths often recommend exposure to naturally occurring substances, such as [[sunshine]], [[herbs]] and certain foods, as well as activities they describe as natural, such as [[exercise]], [[meditation]] and [[relaxation (psychology)|relaxation]]. Naturopaths claim that these natural treatments help restore the body's innate ability to heal itself without the adverse effects of conventional medicine. However, "natural" methods and chemicals are not necessarily safer or more effective than "artificial" or "synthetic" ones, and any treatment capable of eliciting an effect may also have deleterious [[side effect]]s.<ref name="ACS-2009" /><ref name="Barrett-Naturopathy" /><ref name="SkepDic_natural">{{cite web |url= http://skepdic.com/natural.html |title= Natural |access-date= 2013-09-08 |vauthors= Carroll R |work= The Skeptic's Dictionary |date= November 26, 2012 |archive-date= May 14, 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110514011749/http://skepdic.com/natural.html |url-status= live }}</ref><ref name="NCAHF_herb">{{cite web |url= http://www.ncahf.org/pp/herbal.html |title= NCAHF Position Paper on Over the Counter Herbal Remedies (1995) |access-date= 2009-04-17 |year= 1995 |publisher= National Council Against Health Fraud |archive-date= July 7, 2011 |archive-url= http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20110707163329/http://www.ncahf.org/pp/herbal.html |url-status= live }}</ref>
===Australia===
There is no state [[licensure]] in [[Australia]], rather the industry is self-regulated. There is no protection of title, meaning that technically anyone can practise as a naturopath. The only way to obtain [[insurance]] for professional [[indemnity]] or public [[liability insurance|liability]] is by joining a [[professional body|professional association]], which can only be achieved having completed an [[School accreditation|accredited]] course and gaining [[professional certification]]. Currently the only registered modalities of natural medicine in Australia are those relating to Chinese medicine, and only in the state of [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]].<ref>{{cite web |publisher=The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners |url=http://www.racgp.org.au/racgpaimajwp |title=Joint RACGP/AIMA Working Party Terms of Reference |doi= |pmid= |accessdate= }}</ref>


Certain naturopathic treatments offered by naturopaths, such as [[homeopathy]], [[rolfing]], and [[iridology]], are widely considered [[pseudoscience]] or [[quackery]].<ref name="NSBattitudes">{{cite web |title= Chapter 7 Science and Technology: Public Attitudes and Public Understanding, Section: Belief in Alternative Medicine |url= https://www.nsf.gov/statistics/seind02/c7/c7s5.htm#c7s5l2a |work= Science and Engineering Indicators - 2002 |date= January 15, 2002 |author= National Science Board |publisher= Division of Science Resources Statistics, [[National Science Foundation]] |location= Arlington, VA |access-date= 2018-04-06 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160616181809/http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/seind02/c7/c7s5.htm#c7s5l2a |archive-date= 2016-06-16 |url-status= dead |author-link= National Science Board }}</ref><ref name="WahlbergQuack">{{cite journal | vauthors = Wahlberg A | title = A quackery with a difference-new medical pluralism and the problem of 'dangerous practitioners' in the United Kingdom | journal = Social Science & Medicine | volume = 65 | issue = 11 | pages = 2307–2316 | date = December 2007 | pmid = 17719708 | doi = 10.1016/j.socscimed.2007.07.024 | url = https://curis.ku.dk/ws/files/49590510/Wahlberg.2007.Aquackerywithadifference.pdf | access-date = December 10, 2019 | archive-date = January 14, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003657/https://curis.ku.dk/ws/files/49590510/Wahlberg.2007.Aquackerywithadifference.pdf | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= Iridology is Nonsense |url= http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/iridology.html |vauthors= Barrett S |date= March 28, 2008 |work= QuackWatch |access-date= 2013-09-08 |archive-date= April 6, 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110406120005/http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/iridology.html |url-status= live }}</ref> [[Stephen Barrett]] of [[QuackWatch]] and the [[National Council Against Health Fraud]] has stated that naturopathy is "simplistic and that its practices are riddled with quackery".<ref name="Barrett-Naturopathy" /><ref>{{Cite web|title=Homeopathy|url=https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/homeopathy/|date=2017-10-18|website=nhs.uk|language=en|access-date=2020-05-21|archive-date=May 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200513190309/https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/homeopathy/|url-status=live}}</ref> "Non-scientific health care practitioners, including naturopaths, use unscientific methods and deception on a public who, lacking in-depth health care knowledge, must rely upon the assurance of providers. Quackery not only harms people, it undermines the ability to conduct scientific research and should be opposed by scientists", says [[William T. Jarvis]].<ref name="Jarvis WT">{{cite journal | vauthors = Jarvis WT | title = Quackery: a national scandal | journal = Clinical Chemistry | volume = 38 | issue = 8B Pt 2 | pages = 1574–1586 | date = August 1992 | pmid = 1643742 }}</ref> In the 2018 Australian case against Marlyin Bodnar, who advised a mother to treat her infant son's eczema with a raw food diet which nearly led to the child's starvation death, Judge Peter Berman said, "Well intentioned but seriously misguided advice is, as the facts of this case demonstrate, capable of causing great harm and even death to vulnerable children."<ref>{{cite web| vauthors = Sutton C |title=Naturopath jailed in starving baby case|url=http://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/courts-law/naturopath-faces-sentencing-in-starving-baby-case/news-story/bc594346e08341bfee402f19471b830d|website=news.com.au|access-date=24 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180424055207/http://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/courts-law/naturopath-faces-sentencing-in-starving-baby-case/news-story/bc594346e08341bfee402f19471b830d|archive-date=24 April 2018|language=en|date=5 April 2018}}</ref> Furthermore, Britt Hermes criticizes the "pervasive culture of [[Victim blaming|patient blaming]]" among naturopathic practitioners, where "when something doesn't work for the patient and the patient is not experiencing all of the positive effects and zero side-effects that are promised with the therapy, it's never because the therapy doesn't work, it's because the patient didn't do something right."<ref name="ESP50" />
In 1977 a committee reviewed all colleges of naturopathy in Australia and found that, although the syllabuses of many colleges were reasonable in their coverage of basic biomedical sciences on paper, the actual instruction bore little relationship to the documented course. In no case was any practical work of any consequence available. The lectures which were attended by the Committee varied from the dictation of textbook material to a slow, but reasonably methodical, exposition of the terminology of medical sciences, at a level of dictionary definitions, without the benefit of depth or the understanding of mechanisms or the broader significance of the concepts. The Committee did not see any significant teaching of the various therapeutic approaches favoured by naturopaths. Persons reported to be particularly interested in homoeopathy, Bach's floral remedies or mineral salts were interviewed, but no systematic courses in the choice and use of these therapies were seen in the various colleges. The Committee was left with the impression that the choice of therapeutic regime was based on the general whim of the naturopath and since the suggested applications in the various textbooks and dispensations overlap to an enormous extent no specific indications are or can be taught.<ref name=Aust1977 />


===India===
=== Vaccination ===
{{See also|Vaccine hesitancy}}
In India there is a 5 1/2 year degree course offering a Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences (BNYS) degree. There are a total of 11 colleges in [[India]], of which four colleges are in the state of [[Tamil Nadu]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.findnd.com/naturopathic-education/indian-colleges/113-naturopathic-colleges-in-india.html |title=Naturopathic Colleges in India |publisher=Findnd.com |date= |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref>
[[File:Measles US 1938-2019.png| alt=Cases of measles from 1938 to 1963 followed a highly variable epidemic pattern, with 150,000–850,000 cases reported per year. A sharp decline followed after the introduction of the first [[measles vaccine]] in 1963, with fewer than 25,000 cases reported in 1968. Outbreaks around 1971 and 1977 gave 75,000 and 57,000 cases, respectively. Cases were stable at a few thousand per year until an outbreak of 28,000 in 1990. Cases declined from a few hundred per year in the early 1990s to a few dozen in the 2000s. | thumb | [[Measles]] cases reported in the United States fell dramatically after the introduction of the measles vaccine.]]


Many naturopathy practitioners voice their opposition to vaccination. The reasons for this opposition are based, in part, on the early views which shaped the foundation of this occupation.<ref name="Ernst-2001">{{cite journal | vauthors = Ernst E | title = Rise in popularity of complementary and alternative medicine: reasons and consequences for vaccination | journal = Vaccine | volume = 20 Suppl 1 | issue = Suppl. 1, 5th European Conference on Vaccinology: A Safe Future with Vaccination | pages = S90-3; discussion S89 | date = October 2001 | pmid = 11587822 | doi = 10.1016/S0264-410X(01)00290-0 | author-link = Edzard Ernst }}</ref> A naturopathy textbook, co-authored by Joseph Pizzorno, recalls anti-vaccine beliefs associated with the founding of naturopathy in the United States: "a return to nature in regulating the diet, breathing, exercising, bathing and the employment of various forces" ''in lieu'' of the [[smallpox vaccine]].<ref>{{cite book| vauthors = Pizzorno JE, Murray MT |title=Textbook of Natural Medicine e-edition: Text with Continually Updated Online Reference, 2-Volume Set|date=2011|publisher=Elsevier|isbn=978-1-4557-0527-6|edition=third|quote=To understand how revolting these products are, let us just refer to the vaccine matter which is supposed to be an efficient preventive of smallpox. [...] The natural system for curing disease is based on a return to nature in regulating the diet, breathing, exercising, bathing and the employment of various forces to eliminate the poisonous products in the system, and so raise the vitality of the patient to a proper standard of health.|page=43}}</ref>
Naturopathy and Yoga, as an Indian system of medicine, falls under the Department of AYUSH, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.<ref name="AYUSH">[http://www.indianmedicine.nic.in/ Department of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH)]</ref>


In general, evidence about associations between naturopathy and pediatric vaccination is sparse, but "published reports suggest that only a minority of naturopathic physicians actively support full vaccination".<ref name="Downey">{{cite journal | vauthors = Downey L, Tyree PT, Huebner CE, Lafferty WE | title = Pediatric vaccination and vaccine-preventable disease acquisition: associations with care by complementary and alternative medicine providers | journal = Maternal and Child Health Journal | volume = 14 | issue = 6 | pages = 922–930 | date = November 2010 | pmid = 19760163 | pmc = 2924961 | doi = 10.1007/s10995-009-0519-5 }} Quote is taken from introduction to paper, not from results of research presented in this paper.</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Herzog R, Álvarez-Pasquin MJ, Díaz C, Del Barrio JL, Estrada JM, Gil Á | title = Are healthcare workers' intentions to vaccinate related to their knowledge, beliefs and attitudes? A systematic review | journal = BMC Public Health | volume = 13 | pages = 154 | date = February 2013 | pmid = 23421987 | pmc = 3602084 | doi = 10.1186/1471-2458-13-154 | doi-access = free }}</ref> In Washington state from 2000 to 2003, children were significantly less likely to receive immunizations if they had seen a naturopath.<ref name="Downey" /> A survey of naturopathic students published in 2004 found that students at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine became less likely to recommend vaccinations to their patients and became more distrustful of public health and conventional medicine as they advanced in the program.<ref name="wilson" />
The Indian government established the "Central Council for Research in Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy” in 1969 as an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This organization was tasked to conduct scientific research into those branches of alternative medicine, until 1978. During this period, the development of Naturopathy was looked after by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare directly. In March 1978 the composite Council was dissolved and replaced by four independent Research Councils, one each for Ayurveda and Siddha, Unani, Homoeopathy and Yoga & Naturopathy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.findnd.com/regulation/67-india/112-central-council-for-research-in-yoga-and-naturopathy-.html |title=Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy |publisher=Findnd.com |date= |accessdate=2009-09-22}}</ref>


The British Columbia Naturopathic Association lists several major concerns regarding the pediatric vaccine schedule and vaccines in general,<ref>{{cite web|title=BCNA Vaccination Position Paper|url=http://www.bcna.ca/files_3/articles-vaccination.php|publisher=British Columbia Naturopathic Association|access-date=15 July 2014|archive-date=July 19, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140719051132/http://www.bcna.ca/files_3/articles-vaccination.php|url-status=live}}</ref> and the group's policy is to not advocate for or against vaccines.<ref>{{cite journal|vauthors=Brown H|title=Influenza Virus, Vaccination and Naturopathic Practice|journal=Naturopathic Doctor News and Review|date=21 December 2007|url=http://ndnr.com/nature-cure/influenza-virus-vaccination-and-naturopathic-practice/|access-date=20 October 2016|archive-date=January 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003701/https://ndnr.com/nature-cure/influenza-virus-vaccination-and-naturopathic-practice/|url-status=live}}</ref> The Oregon Association of Naturopathic Physicians reports that many naturopaths "customize" the pediatric vaccine schedule.<ref>{{cite web|title=Naturopathic Primary Care|url=http://www.thelundreport.org/sites/default/files/u967/ND%20Primary%20Care%20in%20Oregon%20White%20Paper%20-%20Final.pdf|publisher=Oregon Association of Naturopathic Physicians|access-date=15 July 2014|archive-date=June 14, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130614203253/http://www.thelundreport.org/sites/default/files/u967/ND%20Primary%20Care%20in%20Oregon%20White%20Paper%20-%20Final.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
The National Institute of Naturopathy, [[Pune]] was established on the 22 December, 1986. It encourages facilities for standardization and propagation of the existing knowledge and its application through research in Naturopathy throughout India. This Institute has a Governing Body", with the Union Minister for Health as its President.<ref>[http://www.punenin.org/ National Institute of Naturopathy, Pune]</ref>


As of April 25, 2022, a British Columbia government report found that 69.2% of naturopaths reported having received at least two COVID vaccines or receiving a medical exemption. This was much lower than all the other regulated medical professions in the report. The number for two professions{{snd}}dieticians and physicians/surgeons{{snd}}was 98%.<ref name="cbc-covid-vaccines">{{cite news |title=Naturopaths, chiropractors least vaccinated of all B.C. health professionals, province says |last1=Larsen |first1=Karin |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/naturopaths-chiropractors-least-vaccinated-1.6439886 |access-date=11 May 2022 |agency=CBC |date=10 May 2022}}</ref><ref name="bc-gov-vaccines">{{cite news |title=Data published on vaccination status of regulated health professions |url=https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022HLTH0138-000737 |access-date=11 May 2022 |work=news.gov.bc.ca |agency=BC Gov News |date=10 May 2022 |language=en}}</ref>
===North America===
In five Canadian provinces, fifteen US states and the [[District of Columbia]], [[Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine|naturopathic doctors]] who are trained at an [[naturopathic medical school in North America|accredited school of naturopathic medicine]] in North America, are entitled to use the designation ND or NMD. Elsewhere, the designations "naturopath", "naturopathic doctor", and "doctor of natural medicine" are generally unprotected.<ref name=IA_med>{{cite web|url=http://medicalboard.iowa.gov/Naturopathy.html |title=A Policy Statement on Naturopathy |publisher= |doi= |pmid= |accessdate= }}</ref>


{{as of|2016}}, the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, which is the largest professional organization for licensed naturopaths in the U.S., is "still discussing its stance on vaccinations".<ref name="Robins">{{cite news|vauthors=Robins R|title=Funded by vitamin makers, naturopaths push to expand in US|url=https://www.statnews.com/2016/05/17/naturopaths-go-mainstream/|access-date=18 May 2016|work=STAT|date=17 May 2016|archive-date=January 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003710/https://www.statnews.com/2016/05/17/naturopaths-go-mainstream/|url-status=live}}</ref>
In North America, each jurisdiction that regulates naturopathy defines a local scope of practice for naturopathic doctors that can vary considerably. Some regions permit minor surgery, access to prescription drugs, spinal manipulations, obstetrics and gynecology and other regions exclude these from the naturopathic scope of practice.<ref name="Sunrise-2008">{{cite web|url=http://www.dora.state.co.us/OPR/archive/2008NaturopathicPhysiciansSunrise.pdf |format=PDF |year=2008 |title=Sunrise Review: Naturopathic Physicians |page=19 |publisher=State of Colorado |accessdate= |pmid= |doi= }}</ref>


====Canada====
==Practitioners==
Naturopath practitioners can generally be categorized into three groups: 1) those with a government issued license; 2) those who practice outside of an official status ("traditional naturopaths"); 3) those who are primarily another kind of health professional who also practices naturopathy.<ref name="ACS-2009" /><ref name="NCCAM">{{Cite web | title =Naturopathy: An Introduction | publisher =[[National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health]], [[National Institutes of Health]], [[United States Department of Health and Human Services]] | orig-date =Created April 2007 | date =March 2012 | url =http://nccih.nih.gov/health/naturopathy/naturopathyintro.htm?nav=gsa | access-date =2013-03-16 | author =<!-- no byline --> | volume =NCCIH Pub. No. D372 | archive-date =February 23, 2015 | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20150223110947/https://nccih.nih.gov/health/naturopathy/naturopathyintro.htm?nav=gsa | url-status =live }}</ref><ref name="IMB_policy">{{cite web |author= Iowa Board of Medicine |title= A Policy Statement on Naturopathy |url= http://medicalboard.iowa.gov/policies/naturopathy.html |publisher= <!-- Iowa Board of Medicine, redundant to author -->Iowa Department of Public Health, State of Iowa |date= February 7, 2002 |access-date= 2013-09-01 |archive-date= April 12, 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130412204820/http://medicalboard.iowa.gov/policies/naturopathy.html |url-status= dead }}</ref><ref>The Platform of the American Naturopathic Association as drawn up by the Golden Jubilee Congress. July 27th – August 2nd, 1947</ref><ref name="MNNWG">{{cite web |url= http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/hpsc/hop/nawg/summary092308.pdf |title= Traditional Naturopathy Working Session Summary September 23 and October 1, 2008 |author= Naturopathy Work Group |publisher= Minnesota Department of Health |access-date= 2010-11-20 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110726104027/http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/hpsc/hop/nawg/summary092308.pdf |archive-date= July 26, 2011 }}</ref>
There are five Canadian provinces which license naturopathic doctors: [[British Columbia]], [[Manitoba]], [[Nova Scotia]], [[Ontario]], and [[Saskatchewan]].<ref>[http://www.cand.ca/index.php?40 Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors]</ref> British Columbia has regulated naturopathic medicine since 1936 and is the only Canadian province that allows certified ND's to prescribe pharmaceuticals and perform minor surgeries.<ref>[http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2009/04/10/bc-naturopaths.html CBC News - B.C. gives naturopaths right to prescribe drugs]</ref>


In Switzerland, these divisions fall between those with a federal diploma, those recognized by health insurances, and those with neither federal diploma nor recognition by health insurances. Naturopaths with federal diploma can be divided into four categories: European traditional medicine, Chinese traditional medicine, ayurvedic medicine and homeopathy.<ref name="sbfi.admin.ch">{{cite web |url=http://www.sbfi.admin.ch/bvz/hbb/index.html?detail=1&typ=hfp&lang=fr&item=834&abfragen=Chercher |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150904074545/http://www.sbfi.admin.ch/bvz/hbb/index.html?detail=1&typ=hfp&lang=fr&item=834&abfragen=Chercher |url-status=dead |archive-date=2015-09-04 |publisher=State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation |title=Naturopathe avec diplôme fédéral |location=CH }}</ref><ref name="apps.who.int">{{cite web |url=http://apps.who.int/medicinedocs/en/d/Jh2943e/7.19.html |publisher=World Health Organization |title=Legal Status of Traditional Medicine and Complementary/Alternative Medicine: A Worldwide Review |access-date=July 4, 2015 |archive-date=July 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705180602/http://apps.who.int/medicinedocs/en/d/Jh2943e/7.19.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> The number of listed naturopaths (including traditional healers) in Switzerland rose from 223 in 1970 to 1835 in 2000.<ref name="bfs.admin.ch/">{{cite web |url=http://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/portal/fr/index/themen/14/03/04/key/01.html |title=Swiss Federal Statistical Office |location=Switzerland |access-date=2015-07-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708081400/http://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/portal/fr/index/themen/14/03/04/key/01.html |archive-date=2015-07-08 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
====United States====
*US jurisdictions that currently regulate or license naturopathy include: [[Alaska]], [[Arizona]], [[California]], [[Connecticut]], [[District of Columbia]], [[Hawaii]], [[Idaho]], [[Kansas]], [[Maine]], [[Minnesota]], [[Montana]], [[New Hampshire]], [[Oregon]], [[Puerto Rico]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oslpr.org/download/ES/1997/208s0783.pdf |format=PDF |title=Ley para Reglamentar el Ejercicio de la Medicina Naturopática en Puerto Rico [Law to Regulate the Practice of Naturopathic Medicine in Puerto Rico] |language=Spanish |date=30 December 1997}}</ref> [[US Virgin Islands]], [[Utah]], [[Vermont]], and [[Washington]].<ref name="autogenerated1" /> Additionally, [[Florida]] and [[Virginia]] license the practice of naturopathy under a [[grandfather clause]].<ref name=AMA_report_2006>{{cite news | first= | last= | coauthors= |authorlink= | title=Reports to the Board of Trustees | date=2006-11 | publisher=[[American Medical Association]] | url =http://www.ama-assn.org/ama1/pub/upload/mm/38/i-06bot.pdf |format=PDF| work = | pages = | accessdate = 2009-03-19 | language = }}</ref>
:*US jurisdictions that permit access to prescription drugs: [[Arizona]], [[California]], [[District of Columbia]], [[Hawaii]], [[Idaho]], [[Kansas]], [[Maine]], [[Montana]], [[New Hampshire]], [[Oregon]], [[Utah]], [[Vermont]], and [[Washington]].
:*US jurisdictions that permit minor surgery: [[Arizona]], [[District of Columbia]], [[Idaho]], [[Kansas]], [[Maine]], [[Montana]], [[Oregon]], [[Utah]], [[Vermont]], and [[Washington]].
*US states which specifically prohibit the practice of naturopathy: [[South Carolina]],<ref name=AMA_report_2006 /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scstatehouse.net/code/t40c031.htm|title=South Carolina Code of Laws Section 40-31-10}}</ref> and [[Tennessee]].<ref name=AMA_report_2006 /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.michie.com/tennessee/lpext.dll/tncode/257b9/25b48/25b6e/25ba9?f=templates&fn=document-frame.htm&2.0#JD_63-6-205 |title=Tennessee Code 63-6-205 |publisher=Tennessee State Legislature |date= |accessdate= |doi= }}</ref>


=== Licensed naturopaths ===
[[Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine|Naturopathic doctors]] are not mandated to undergo [[residency (medicine)|residency]] between graduation and commencing practice,<ref name=ACS /> except in the state of Utah.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dopl.utah.gov/licensing/forms/applications/072_naturopathic_phys.pdf
Licensed naturopaths may be referred to as "naturopathic doctors" or "naturopathic physicians" in 26 US states or territories and 5 Canadian provinces.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://aanmc.org/naturopathic-news/naturopathic-doctors-wisconsin-licensure/|title=Naturopathic Doctors are Now Licensed in Wisconsin|date=2022-02-17|access-date=2022-02-21|website=AANMC|quote=Wisconsin has just become the 26th U.S. state/territory to regulate naturopathic doctors.}}</ref> Licensed naturopaths present themselves as [[Primary care physician|primary care providers]].<ref name="Gale_Frey" /><ref name="CNME-handbook" /> Licensed naturopaths do not receive comparable training to medical doctors in terms of the quality of education or quantity of hours.<ref name="atwood2003" /><ref name="AAFP" />
|format=PDF
|title=Application for licensure : naturopathic physician
|publisher=State of Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
}}</ref>


In [[British Columbia]], legislation permits licensed naturopaths to use the title "doctor" or "physician".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/282_2008 |title=Health Professions Act: Naturopathic Physicians Regulation |at=B.C. Reg. 282/2008 M242/2008 |publisher=Queen's Printer |location=Victoria, British Columbia |date=October 2008 |access-date=18 August 2016 |archive-date=January 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003734/https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/282_2008 |url-status=live }}</ref> However, section 102 of the bylaw of the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia (CNPBC), the terms "naturopathic" or "naturopathic medicine" must be included anytime the term doctor or physician is used by a member of the CNPBC.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.cnpbc.bc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019-12-27-CNPBC-Bylaws-Consolidation.pdf|title=Bylaws of the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.straight.com/news/1360161/surrey-city-councillor-and-naturopath-allison-patton-fined-and-suspended-calling |title=Surrey city councillor and naturopath Allison Patton fined and suspended for calling herself a "physician" |date=February 13, 2020 |access-date=April 14, 2020 |archive-date=January 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003702/https://www.straight.com/news/1360161/surrey-city-councillor-and-naturopath-allison-patton-fined-and-suspended-calling |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.surreynowleader.com/news/surrey-councillor-fined-suspended-from-naturopathy-for-misusing-physician-title/ |title=Surrey councillor fined, suspended from naturopathy for misusing 'physician' title |date=February 12, 2020 |access-date=April 14, 2020 |archive-date=January 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003717/https://www.surreynowleader.com/news/surrey-councillor-fined-suspended-from-naturopathy-for-misusing-physician-title/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/complaint-filed-against-surrey-naturopath-turned-councillor-who-campaigned-as-physician-1.4907555 |title=Complaint filed against Surrey naturopath-turned-councillor who campaigned as 'physician' |access-date=April 14, 2020 |archive-date=January 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003716/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/complaint-filed-against-surrey-naturopath-turned-councillor-who-campaigned-as-physician-1.4907555 |url-status=live }}</ref>
===United Kingdom===
In the [[United Kingdom]], as there is no government sponsored regulation of the naturopathy profession, naturopaths are unregulated. The largest registering body, The General Council & Register of Naturopaths, recognises three courses in the UK, two being taught at osteopathic schools: the [[British College of Osteopathic Medicine]]; The [[College of Osteopaths Educational Trust]]; and one at the [[University of Westminster]] School of Integrated Health under the auspices of the BSc Health Science (Naturopathy) course.{{Citation needed|date=July 2008}}


==== Education ====
There is also the ''Association of Naturopathic Practitioners'' and ''The British Naturopathic Association''.
[[File:NCNM3.jpg|right|upright|thumb|[[National University of Natural Medicine]] trains students in naturopathic medicine who are eligible to become licensed in some jurisdictions in North America.]]
[[File:Bastyr University Garden.jpg|thumb|upright|The herb garden at [[Bastyr University]], another naturopathic program whose graduates can become licensed naturopaths in some North American jurisdictions]]


Licensed naturopaths must pass the [[Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations]] (NPLEX) administered by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE)<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.nabne.org/home/about/ |title= About Us |access-date= 3 September 2013 |publisher= North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners |author= <!-- no byline --> |date= <!-- no date in source --> |archive-date= October 5, 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131005181153/https://www.nabne.org/home/about/ |url-status= live }}</ref> after graduating from a program accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME).<ref name="CNME-handbook" /><ref>{{Cite web|title=Naturopathy|url=https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/naturopathy|website=NCCIH|language=en|access-date=2020-05-27|archive-date=March 31, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200331033317/https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/naturopathy|url-status=live}}</ref> Training in CNME-accredited programs includes basic medical diagnostics and procedures such as rudimentary physical exams and common [[blood test]]s, in addition to pseudoscientific modalities, such as homeopathy, acupuncture, and energy modalities.<ref name="atwood2003">{{cite journal | vauthors = Atwood KC | title = Naturopathy: a critical appraisal | journal = MedGenMed | volume = 5 | issue = 4 | pages = 39 | date = December 2003 | pmid = 14745386 | url = http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/465994 | access-date = September 4, 2013 | archive-date = March 2, 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130302030226/http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/465994 | url-status = live }}{{registration required}}</ref><ref name="atwood2004" /><ref name="Barrett-Naturopathy" /><ref name="Gale_Frey" />
==Evidence basis==
These accredited programs have been criticized for misrepresenting their medical rigor and teaching subjects that are antithetical to the best understandings of science and medicine.<ref name="Barrett-Naturopathy" /><ref name="GorskiSBM" /><ref name="Hermes2015">{{cite web|vauthors=Hermes B|author-link1=Britt Marie Hermes|title=ND Confession, Part 1: Clinical training inside and out|url=https://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org/nd-confession-part-1-clinical-training-inside-and-out|website=[[Science-Based Medicine]]|access-date=23 July 2016|date=13 March 2015|archive-date=January 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003703/https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/nd-confession-part-1-clinical-training-inside-and-out/|url-status=live}}</ref> The CNME as an accrediting authority has been characterized as unreliable and suffering from conflicts of interest.<ref name="Mangan1999">{{cite news|vauthors=Mangan KS|title=Report Recommends Stripping Naturopathy Council of Its Accrediting Authority|url=http://chronicle.com/article/Report-Recommends-Stripping/113719|access-date=23 July 2016|work=[[The Chronicle of Higher Education]]|date=2 December 1999|archive-date=January 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003742/https://www.chronicle.com/article/report-recommends-stripping-naturopathy-council-of-its-accrediting-authority/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hermes2015b">{{cite web|vauthors=Hermes B|author-link1=Britt Marie Hermes|title=ND Confession, Part II: The Accreditation of Naturopathic "Medical" Education|url=https://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org/nd-confession-part-ii-the-accreditation-of-naturopathic-medical-education/|website=[[Science-Based Medicine]]|access-date=23 July 2016|date=29 August 2015|archive-date=July 10, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160710155040/https://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org/nd-confession-part-ii-the-accreditation-of-naturopathic-medical-education/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="sfsbmNDreport">{{Cite report |author=Society for Science-Based Medicine |date=2014 |title=Report to the Maryland Board of Physicians Naturopathic Advisory Committee: Recommendations for Naturopathic Regulation |url=http://sfsbm.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=486:naturopathic-board&catid=52:legislative&Itemid=435 |access-date=23 July 2016 |archive-date=January 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003654/http://sfsbm.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=486%3Anaturopathic-board&catid=52%3Alegislative&Itemid=435 |url-status=live }}</ref> The naturopathic licensing exam has been called a mystery by those outside the naturopathic profession<ref name="atwood2004" /><ref name="MMStestimony2015">{{cite web|title=MMS Testimony in Opposition to H. 1992 and S. 1205, An Act to Create a Board of Registration in Naturopathy|url=http://www.massmed.org/Advocacy/MMS-Testimony/MMS-Testimony-in-Opposition-to-H--1992-and-S--1205,-An-Act-to-Create-a-Board-of-Registration-in-Naturopathy/#.VtgJaZMrKrO|website=Massachusetts Medical Society|access-date=30 July 2016|archive-date=May 22, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160522130005/http://www.massmed.org/Advocacy/MMS-Testimony/MMS-Testimony-in-Opposition-to-H--1992-and-S--1205,-An-Act-to-Create-a-Board-of-Registration-in-Naturopathy/#.VtgJaZMrKrO|url-status=live}}</ref> and criticized for testing on [[homeopathic]] remedies,<ref name="GorskiSBM">{{cite web|vauthors=Gorski D|author-link1=David Gorski|title=Naturopathy and Science|url=https://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org/naturopathy-and-science/|publisher=ScienceBasedMedicine.org|access-date=3 March 2016|date=21 February 2011|archive-date=January 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003753/https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/naturopathy-and-science/|url-status=live}}</ref> including for the use to treat [[pediatric]] emergencies.<ref name="Senapathy2016" />


Several schools in North America exist for the study of naturopathic medicine, some accredited by the CNME.<ref>{{cite web |title=Accredited Naturopathic Medical Schools |url=https://aanmc.org/naturopathic-schools/ |website=Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges }}</ref> The CNME and the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges (AANMC) claim entrance requirements and curricula at accredited colleges are often similar or comparable to those required and offered at conventional medical schools.<ref>{{cite web |title=ND, MD/DO, NP: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? |url=https://aanmc.org/comparing-nd-md-curricula/ |website=Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges |access-date=15 November 2023}}</ref> However, the lack of accreditation by the [[Liaison Committee on Medical Education]] may indicate insufficiency of scientific medical training and/or quantifiable positive results, and accordingly it remains disputed whether graduates of medical colleges accredited by the CNME have the competency of Medical Doctors and Doctors of Osteopathy.<ref name="AAFP"/><ref>{{cite web |title=ND Confession, Part II: The Accreditation of Naturopathic "Medical" Education |url=https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/nd-confession-part-ii-the-accreditation-of-naturopathic-medical-education/ |website=Science-Based Medicine |date=August 30, 2015 |access-date=15 November 2023}}</ref>
[[Evidence-based medicine]] (EBM) has been advocated as an appropriate methodology for investigating natural medicine such as naturopathy, which has been characterized as lacking an adequate scientific basis. Naturopathic practitioners surveyed in Australia perceive EBM as an ideologic assault on their beliefs in vitalistic and holistic principles.<ref name=Naturo2006/> They advocate the integrity of natural medicine practice. Traditional natural medicine practitioners surveyed in Australia could have problems in understanding and applying the concept of EBM.<ref name=Naturo2006>{{cite journal |journal= J Altern Complement Med |year=2006 |volume=12 |issue=3 |pages=323–8 |title=Evidence-based medicine and naturopathy |author=Jagtenberg T, Evans S, Grant A, Howden I, Lewis M, Singer J |doi= |pmid=16646733}}</ref> Non-scientific health care practitioners, including naturopaths, use unscientific methods and deception on a public who, lacking in-depth health care knowledge, must rely upon the assurance of providers. Quackery not only harms people, it undermines the ability to conduct scientific research and should be opposed by scientists, says William T. Jarvis.<ref>{{cite journal |pmid=1643742 |year=1992 |month=August |last1=Jarvis |first1=WT |title=Quackery: a national scandal |volume=38 |issue=8B Pt 2 |pages=1574–86 |issn=0009-9147 |journal=Clinical chemistry}}</ref> Although naturopathy is increasingly accepted by the general public, members of the medical community show a critical or even rejecting view of naturopathy. With greater scientific knowledge of naturopathy, better therapeutic approaches could be achieved, resulting in improved therapy models and an economic benefit for the [[health care]] system.<ref>{{cite journal |journal=Forsch Komplementarmed Klass Naturheilkd |year=2001 |volume=8 |issue=1 |pages=24–32 |title=[On the general basis of naturopathy and complementary medicine]|author=Beck T |doi= |pmid=11340311}}</ref> Naturopathic physicians have begun to contribute to research and adapt modern scientific principles into clinical practice, further developing and validating the profession.<ref>{{cite journal |journal=Med Clin North Am |year=2002 |volume=86 |issue=1 |pages=173–84 |title=Naturopathy|author=Smith MJ, Logan AC |doi= |pmid=11795088}}</ref> There is growing collaborative efforts between naturopaths and [[medical doctor]]s to evaluate the safety and efficacy of naturopathic medicine in prevention and management of a broad range of common ailments, and to decide whether accessibility of naturopathic services will enhance patient health in a [[cost-effective]] way.<ref>{{cite journal |journal=J Fam Pract |year=2005 |volume=54 |issue=12 |pages=1067–72 |title=Naturopathic medicine: what can patients expect?|author=Dunne N, Benda W, Kim L, Mittman P, Barrett R, Snider P, Pizzorno J |url=http://www.jfponline.com/Pages.asp?AID=3698 |doi= |pmid=16321345}}</ref> A host of naturopathy alternative treatments are sold as reliable science such as [[reflexology]]. However, reflexology is an unconventional method that has nothing in common with serious naturopathic treatments and any scientific value to reflexology is not merited. Contrary to reflexology, scientifically genuine naturopathic methods are not an alternative, but a supplement to [[modern medicine]].<ref>{{cite journal |journal=Versicherungsmedizin|year=2009 |volume=61 |issue=3 |pages=129–35 |title=[Reflexology--nothing in common with scientific naturopathic treatments]|author=Heide M, Heide MH |doi= |pmid=19860172}}</ref>


Naturopathic doctors are not eligible for [[Residency (medicine)|medical residencies]], which are available exclusively for medical doctors and doctors of osteopathic medicine. There are limited post-graduate "residency" positions available to naturopathic doctors offered through naturopathic schools and naturopathic clinics approved by the CNME.<ref name="CNME_residency">{{cite web|title=Handbook on CNME Postdoctoral Naturopathic Medical Education Sponsor Recognition Process and Standards (2005)|url=http://www.cnme.org/resources/residency_handbook.pdf|publisher=Council on Naturopathic Medical Education|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060615111625/https://cnme.org/resources/residency_handbook.pdf|archive-date=15 June 2006}}</ref> Most naturopathic doctors do not complete such a residency,<ref name="Boon HS" /> and naturopathic doctors are not mandated to complete one for licensure,<ref name="ACS-2009" /> except in the states of Utah and Connecticut.<ref name="UT license app">{{cite web |url=http://www.dopl.utah.gov/licensing/forms/applications/072_naturopathic_phys.pdf |title=Application for Licensure: Naturopathic Physician |website=Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing, Utah Department of Commerce |publisher=State of Utah |date=February 17, 2012 |page=1 |access-date=2013-09-08 |archive-date=June 29, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100629150914/http://dopl.utah.gov/licensing/forms/applications/072_naturopathic_phys.pdf}}</ref> [[Continuing education]] in naturopathic modalities for health care professionals varies greatly.<ref name="PoaP" />
=== Criticism ===


==== Political activity in the United States ====
Naturopathy medicine is criticized for its reliance on and its association with unproven, disproven, and other controversial [[alternative medicine|alternative medical]] treatments, and for its [[vitalism|vitalistic]] underpinnings.<ref name=McKnight2009>
Naturopathic practitioners affiliated with the CNME-accredited schools lobby state, provincial, and federal governments for medical licensure and participation in social health programs.<ref name="Robins" /><ref name="Weeks2016" /> The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians represents licensed naturopaths in the United States;<ref name="Robins" /> the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors represents licensed naturopaths in Canada.<ref name="Weeks2016">{{cite news|vauthors=Carly W|title=Are we being served by the regulation of naturopaths? Not if patients are still being misled|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health-and-fitness/health/canadian-naturopaths-need-to-follow-the-rules-if-they-want-regulation/article29785140/|work=[[The Globe and Mail]]|access-date=23 July 2016|date=29 April 2016|archive-date=January 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003753/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health-and-fitness/health/canadian-naturopaths-need-to-follow-the-rules-if-they-want-regulation/article29785140/|url-status=live}}</ref> Naturopathic lobbying efforts are funded by vitamin and supplement makers<ref name="Robins" /> and focus on portraying naturopathic education as comparable to [[medical education]] received by [[physicians]] and on having high professional standards.<ref name="Weeks2016" /><ref name="NDMDCA">{{cite news|title=ND vs MD -- Battle Lines Drawn in California|url=http://www.medpagetoday.com/publichealthpolicy/workforce/51917|access-date=24 July 2016|date=3 June 2015|archive-date=July 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160725123138/http://www.medpagetoday.com/publichealthpolicy/workforce/51917|url-status=live}}</ref> Medical societies and advocacy groups dispute these claims by citing evidence of licensed naturopathic practitioners using pseudoscientific methods without a sound evidence basis and lacking adequate clinical training to diagnose and treat disease competently according to the [[standard of care]].<ref name="Robins" /><ref name="NDMDCA" /><ref name="Frosch2011">{{cite news|vauthors=Frosch D|title=Licensing Naturopaths Incites Debate in Colorado|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/22/health/22license.html?_r=0|access-date=24 July 2016|work=The New York Times|date=21 February 2011|archive-date=February 2, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202003854/http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/22/health/22license.html?_r=0|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Lambeck">{{cite news|vauthors=Lambeck L|title=New law could let Connecticut naturopathic physicians write prescriptions|url=http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/New-law-could-let-Connecticut-naturopathic-7942677.php|access-date=25 July 2016|work=Connecticut Post|date=24 May 2016|archive-date=August 28, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160828130127/http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/New-law-could-let-Connecticut-naturopathic-7942677.php|url-status=live}}</ref> Jann Bellamy has characterized the process by which naturopathic practitioners and other practitioners of pseudoscience convince lawmakers to provide them with medical licenses as "legislative alchemy".<ref name="Bellamy2014">{{cite web|vauthors=Bellamy J|title=Legislative Alchemy 2014 (so far)|url=https://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org/legislative-alchemy-2014-so-far/|website=[[Science-Based Medicine]]|access-date=21 July 2016|date=15 May 2014|archive-date=February 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160220135945/https://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org/legislative-alchemy-2014-so-far/|url-status=live}}</ref>
{{cite news
|first=P | last=McKnight
|coauthors=
|authorlink=
|title=Naturopathy's main article of faith cannot be validated: Reliance on vital forces leaves its practises based on beliefs without scientific backing
|date=2009-03-07
|url=http://www.vancouversun.com/story_print.html?id=1364389
|work=[[Vancouver Sun]]
|pages=
|accessdate=2009-03-21
}}</ref> As with any alternative care, there is a risk of misdiagnosis; this risk may be lower depending on level of training.<ref name=Gale_Frey /><ref name=atwood2004 /> There is also a risk that ailments that cannot be diagnosed by naturopaths will go untreated while a patient attempts treatment programs designed by their naturopath. Certain naturopathic treatments, such as homeopathy and iridology, are widely considered [[pseudoscience]] or [[quackery]].<ref name="NSBattitudes">
{{cite web
|author=National Science Board
|month=April
|year=2002
|title=Science and engineering indicators
|chapter=7
|chapter_title=Science and technology: public attitudes and public understanding
|url=http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/seind02/c7/c7s5.htm
|section_title=Science Fiction and Pseudoscience
|location=Arlington, Virginia
|publisher=National Science Foundation Directorate for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences
}}</ref><ref name="WahlbergQuack">
{{cite journal
|author=Wahlberg A
|year=2007
|doi=10.1016/j.socscimed.2007.07.024
|title=A quackery with a difference—new medical pluralism and the problem of 'dangerous practitioners' in the United Kingdom
|journal=Social Science & Medicine
|volume=65
|issue=11
|pages=2307–2316
|pmid=17719708
}}</ref><ref>
{{cite web
|url=http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/iridology.html
|title=Iridology is nonsense
|accessdate=
}}, a web page with further references</ref> ''Natural'' methods and chemicals are not necessarily safer or more effective than ''artificial'' or ''synthetic'' ones; any treatment capable of eliciting an effect may also have deleterious side effects.<ref name=Barrett-Naturopathy /><ref name=ACS>
{{cite news
| first= | last= | coauthors=
|authorlink=
| title=Naturopathic medicine
| date=2007-03-26
| publisher=[[American Cancer Society]]
| url =http://www.cancer.org/docroot/ETO/content/ETO_5_3X_Naturopathic_Medicine.asp
| work = | pages =
| accessdate = 2009-03-21
}}</ref><ref name=SkepDic_natural>
{{cite web
|url=http://skepdic.com/natural.html
|title=Natural
|accessdate=2009-03-21
|last=Carroll
|first=Robert
|work=[[The Skeptic's Dictionary]]
}}</ref><ref name=NCAHF_herb> {{cite web|url=http://www.ncahf.org/pp/herbal.html |title=NCAHF Position Paper on Over the Counter Herbal Remedies (1995) |accessdate=2009-04-17 |year=1995 |publisher=[[National Council Against Health Fraud]] }}</ref>


Since 2005, the [[Massachusetts Medical Society]] has opposed licensure based on concerns that NDs are not required to participate in residency and concerns that the practices of naturopaths included many "erroneous and potentially dangerous claims".<ref name="MassMed2005">{{cite web |first= <!-- contact not author Richard P. --> |last= <!-- contact not author Gulla --> |title= Massachusetts Medical Society Testifies in Opposition to Licensing Naturopaths |date= May 11, 2005 |publisher= [[Massachusetts Medical Society]] |url= http://www.massmed.org/AM/PrinterTemplate.cfm?Section=Home&CONTENTID=12458&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm |access-date= 2009-04-17 |archive-date= 2011-07-16 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110716132319/http://www.massmed.org/AM/PrinterTemplate.cfm?Section=Home&CONTENTID=12458&TEMPLATE=%2FCM%2FContentDisplay.cfm |url-status= dead }}</ref> The Massachusetts Special Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medical Practitioners rejected their concerns and recommended licensure.<ref name="MassCtte">{{cite web |title=Majority Report of the Special Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medical Practitioners: A Report to the Legislature |date=January 2002 |author=The Special Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medical Practitioners |publisher=Massachusetts: The Special Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medical Practitioners |url=http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/majority.pdf |access-date=2010-11-10 |archive-date=January 21, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120121012802/http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/majority.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> The Massachusetts Medical Society states:<ref name="MMStestimony2015" />
[[Stephen Barrett]] of [[Quackwatch]] and the [[National Council Against Health Fraud]] has stated that the philosophy of naturopathy is "simplistic and that its practices are riddled with quackery."<ref name=Barrett-Naturopathy>
{{cite web
|url=http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/naturopathy.html
|author=Barrett S
|title=A close look at naturopathy
|date= |accessdate=
|pmid=
}}</ref>


{{Blockquote|Naturopathic medical school is not a medical school in anything but the appropriation of the word medical. Naturopathy is not a branch of medicine. It is a hodge podge of nutritional advice, home remedies and discredited treatments ... Naturopathic colleges claim accreditation but follow a true "alternative" accreditation method that is virtually meaningless. They are not accredited by the same bodies that accredit real medical schools and while some courses have similar titles to the curricula of legitimate medical schools the content is completely different.|author=|title=|source=}}
K. C. Atwood writes, in the journal ''Medscape General Medicine'', "Naturopathic physicians now claim to be primary care physicians proficient in the practice of both "conventional" and "natural" medicine. Their training, however, amounts to a small fraction of that of medical doctors who practice primary care. An examination of their literature, moreover, reveals that it is replete with pseudoscientific, ineffective, unethical, and potentially dangerous practices."<ref name=atwood2003>
{{cite journal
|author=Atwood KC
|year=2003
|doi=
|title=Naturopathy: a critical appraisal
|volume=5
|issue=4
|page=39
|pmid=14745386
}}</ref> In another article, Atwood writes that "Physicians who consider naturopaths to be their colleagues thus find themselves in opposition to one of the fundamental ethical precepts of modern medicine. If naturopaths aren't to be judged "nonscientific practitioners," the term has no useful meaning. An article by a physician exposing quackery, moreover, does not identify its author as "biased," but simply as fulfilling one of his ethical obligations as a physician."<ref name=atwood2004>{{cite journal|author=Atwood KC |date= March 26, 2004 |title=Naturopathy, pseudoscience, and medicine: myths and fallacies vs truth |work=Medscape Gen Med |volume=6 |issue=1 |page=33 |pmid=15208545|pmc=1140750}}</ref>


In 2015, a former naturopathic doctor, Britt Marie Hermes, who graduated from [[Bastyr University]] and practiced as a licensed ND in [[Washington (state)|Washington]] and [[Arizona]], began advocating against naturopathic medicine.<ref name="HermesSI2020">{{cite journal | vauthors = Hermes B |title=Beware the Naturopathic Cancer Quack |journal=Skeptical Inquirer |date=April 2020 |volume=44 |issue=2 |pages=38–44 |url=https://skepticalinquirer.org/2020/03/beware-the-naturopathic-cancer-quack/ }}</ref><ref name="Senapathy2016">{{cite news| vauthors = Senapathy K |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/kavinsenapathy/2016/05/31/why-is-big-naturopathy-afraid-of-this-lone-whistleblower|title=Why Is Big Naturopathy Afraid Of This Lone Whistleblower?|date=2016-05-31|work=Forbes|url-status=live|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200322212737/https://www.forbes.com/sites/kavinsenapathy/2016/05/31/why-is-big-naturopathy-afraid-of-this-lone-whistleblower/%233d54f5de7ee4|archive-date=March 22, 2020|location=US|access-date=September 5, 2017}}</ref><ref name="Belluz2015">{{cite news|vauthors=Belluz J|author-link=Julia Belluz|title=Why one naturopath quit after watching her peers treat cancer patients|url=https://www.vox.com/2015/9/2/9248713/britt-hermes|work=Vox|date=2 September 2015|access-date=June 13, 2017|archive-date=October 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014084313/https://www.vox.com/2015/9/2/9248713/britt-hermes|url-status=live}}</ref> In addition to opposing further licensure, she believes that NDs should not be allowed to use the titles "doctor" or "physician",<ref name="Senapathy2016" /> and be barred from treating children.<ref name="Brown2016">{{cite news |publisher=[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation|CBC]] |author=Jim Brown |title=Former naturopathic doctor calls for an end to naturopathic pediatrics |work=The 180 |date=10 April 2016 |url=http://www.cbc.ca/radio/the180/a-former-naturopath-speaks-out-why-precarious-work-can-be-good-and-will-assisted-death-come-to-rural-canada-1.3525870/former-naturopathic-doctor-calls-for-an-end-to-naturopathic-pediatrics-1.3525946 |access-date=June 8, 2016 |archive-date=June 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160612215149/http://www.cbc.ca/radio/the180/a-former-naturopath-speaks-out-why-precarious-work-can-be-good-and-will-assisted-death-come-to-rural-canada-1.3525870/former-naturopathic-doctor-calls-for-an-end-to-naturopathic-pediatrics-1.3525946 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Kirkey2016">{{cite news| vauthors = Kirkey S |title=Should naturopaths be restricted from treating children after tragic death of Alberta toddler? |url=http://news.nationalpost.com/news/canada/should-naturopaths-be-restricted-from-treating-children-in-wake-of-death-of-alberta-toddler |access-date=8 June 2016 |work=[[National Post]] |date=4 April 2016 }}</ref> She states:<ref name="Hermes2016">{{cite web|vauthors=Britt H|author-link1=Britt Marie Hermes|title=How A Former Naturopath Can Help Unravel The Trickery Of Alternative Medicine|url=http://www.science20.com/britt_marie_hermes/how_a_former_naturopath_can_help_unravel_the_trickery_of_alternative_medicine-175036|website=Science 2.0|access-date=30 July 2016|date=21 June 2016|archive-date=January 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003748/https://www.science20.com/britt_marie_hermes/how_a_former_naturopath_can_help_unravel_the_trickery_of_alternative_medicine-175036|url-status=live}}</ref>
According to [[Arnold S. Relman]], the ''Textbook of Natural Medicine'' is inadequate as a teaching tool, as it omits to mention or treat in detail many common ailments, improperly emphasizes treatments "not likely to be effective" over those that are, and promotes unproven herbal remedies at the expense of pharmaceuticals. He concludes that "the risks to many sick patients seeking care from the average naturopathic practitioner would far outweigh any possible benefits."<ref name=Relman_text> {{cite web |url=http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/Naturopathy/relman1.html |title=Textbook of Natural Medicine |accessdate=2009-04-17 |last=Relman |first=Arnold S. |date=2001-01-09 |publisher=Quackwatch }}</ref>


{{Blockquote|Naturopaths aggressively lobby for laws to issue them medical licenses. I would characterize this political effort as a perverted redefinition of the words "physician", "doctor", "medical school", and "residency" in order to mask the inadequacy of the training provided in naturopathic programs. ND students do not realize that they are taking educational shortcuts and therefore do not possess any demonstrable competencies found in modern medicine.|author=|title=|source=}}
=== Vaccination ===


=== Traditional naturopaths ===
Many forms of [[alternative medicine]], including naturopathy, [[homeopathy]], and [[chiropractic]] are based on beliefs opposed to [[vaccination]] and have practitioners who voice their opposition. This includes non-medically trained naturopaths. The reasons for this negative vaccination view are complicated and rest, at least in part in the early philosophies which shape the foundation of these professions.<ref>{{cite journal |journal=Vaccine |year=2001 |volume=20 |issue= Suppl 1 |pages=S89–93 |title=Rise in popularity of complementary and alternative medicine: reasons and consequences for vaccination |author=Ernst E |doi=10.1016/S0264-410X(01)00290-0 |pmid=11587822}}</ref> A survey of a cross section of students of a major complementary and alternative medicine college in Canada reported that students in the later years of the program opposed vaccination more strongly than newer students.<ref>{{cite journal |journal=Vaccine |year=2008 |volume=26 |issue=49 |pages=6237–42 |title=Attitudes towards vaccination among chiropractic and naturopathic students |author= Busse JW, Wilson K, Campbell JB |doi=10.1016/j.vaccine.2008.07.020 |pmid=18674581}}</ref>
[[File:Hugh Mercer Apothecary 02.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Hugh Mercer Apothecary]] in [[Fredericksburg, Virginia]], a pharmacy founded by [[Hugh Mercer]], a Scottish physician, in the mid-18th century. It is now a museum demonstrating 18th Century medical treatments.]]


Traditional naturopaths are represented in the United States by the American Naturopathic Association (ANA), representing about 1,800 practitioners<ref name="Swartout(Firm)2006">{{cite book|veditors=Swartout KA|title=Encyclopedia of Associations|edition=44|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Wf6PPHSMD4IC|access-date=2013-09-04|year=2006|publisher=Thomson Gale|isbn=978-0-7876-8286-6|pages=1777–1778|archive-date=December 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161203184157/https://books.google.com/books?id=Wf6PPHSMD4IC|url-status=live}}</ref> and the American Naturopathic Medical Association (ANMA).<ref name="Baer2001" />
A [[University of Washington]] study investigated insurance claim histories for alternative medicine use in relation to the receipt of vaccinations against preventable illnesses, grouped into children aged 1–2 years and 1–17 years. Both groups were significantly less likely to receive a number of their vaccinations if they visited a naturopath. The study found a significant association between visits to naturopaths with a reduced receipt of pediatric vaccinations and with obtaining of vaccine preventable illnesses.<ref name="Downey2009">{{cite journal |journal= Matern Child Health J |year=2009 |volume= |pages= |title=Pediatric vaccination and vaccine-preventable disease acquisition: associations with care by complementary and alternative medicine providers |author=Downey L, Tyree PT, Huebner CE, Lafferty WE |pmid=19760163 |url=http://www.springerlink.com/content/2mpl5g3480466684/ |doi=10.1007/s10995-009-0519-5}}</ref>


The level of naturopathic training varies among traditional naturopaths in the United States. Traditional naturopaths may complete non-degree certificate programs or undergraduate degree programs and generally refer to themselves as naturopathic consultants. These programs often offer online unaccredited degrees, but do not offer comprehensive biomedical education or clinical training.
==See also==
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-1-of-3}}
*[[Arnold Ehret]]
*[[Essential nutrient]]
*[[Evidence Based Medicine]]
*[[Health freedom movement]]
*[[Herbalism]]
{{Col-2-of-3}}
*[[Hydrotherapy]]
*[[Medicinal mushrooms]]
*[[Megavitamin therapy]]
*[[Metamorphic Technique]]
*[[Multivitamin]]
{{Col-3-of-3}}
*[[Orthomolecular medicine]]
*[[Osteopathy]] and [[osteopathic medicine]]
*[[Phytonutrients]]
{{col-end}}


Traditional naturopathic practitioners surveyed in Australia perceive evidence-based medicine to be an ideological assault on their beliefs in vitalistic and holistic principles.<ref name="Jagtenberg2006" /> They advocate for the integrity of natural medicine practice.<ref name="Jagtenberg2006" />
==References==
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}


Naturopaths graduating from accredited programs argued in 2002 that their training used evidence-based scientific principles unlike traditional naturopathic programs,<ref name="Smith MJ, Logan AC 2002 173–84">{{cite journal | vauthors = Smith MJ, Logan AC | title = Naturopathy | journal = The Medical Clinics of North America | volume = 86 | issue = 1 | pages = 173–184 | date = January 2002 | pmid = 11795088 | doi = 10.1016/S0025-7125(03)00079-8 }}</ref> but this claim remains inaccurate.<ref name="atwood2003" /><ref name="Barrett-Naturopathy" />
==External links==
*[http://www.anma.org Amerian Naturopathic Medical Association]
*[http://www.naturopathic.org American Association of Naturopathic Physicians]
*{{DMOZ|Health/Alternative/Naturopathy}}
*[http://www.futurehealth.ucsf.edu/pdf_files/Naturo2.pdf Profile of Profession: Naturopathic Practice PDF] (312 Kb) at UCSF Center for the Health Professions
*[http://www.cnme.org Council on Naturopathic Medical Education]
*[http://www.naturopathicassoc.ca Canadian Association of Naturopathic Physicians]


== Regulation ==
Naturopathy is practiced in many countries and is subject to different standards of regulation and levels of acceptance. The scope of practice varies widely between jurisdictions, with some covering naturopathy under medical regulation and allowing practitioners to prescribe drugs and perform minor surgery, while other jurisdictions outlaw naturopathy entirely.{{citation needed|date=November 2022}}

=== Australia ===
In 1977, a Commonwealth Government inquiry reviewed all colleges of naturopathy in Australia and found that despite having syllabuses appearing to cover the basic biomedical sciences, actual lectures had little connection to those syllabuses and no significant practical work was available. In addition, there did not appear to be significant or systematic coverage of techniques favoured by naturopaths, such as homeopathy, Bach's floral remedies, or mineral salts.<ref name=Aust1977/>

The position of the [[Australian Medical Association]] is that "evidence-based aspects of complementary medicine can be part of patient care by a medical practitioner", but it has concerns that there is "limited efficacy evidence regarding most complementary medicine. Unproven complementary medicines and therapies can pose a risk to patient health either directly through misuse or indirectly if a patient defers seeking medical advice." The AMA's position on regulation is that "there should be appropriate regulation of complementary medicine practitioners and their activities".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://ama.com.au/position-statement/complementary-medicine-2012 |title=AMA Position Statement: Complementary Medicine - 2012 |date=28 August 2012 |publisher=Australian Medical Association |access-date=21 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402150707/https://ama.com.au/position-statement/complementary-medicine-2012 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In 2015, the Australian government found no clear evidence of effectiveness for naturopathy.<ref name=aus17/> Accordingly, In 2017 the Australian government named naturopathy as a practice that would not qualify for insurance subsidies, saying this step would "ensure taxpayer funds are expended appropriately and not directed to therapies lacking evidence".<ref name=nosubsidy>{{cite journal |title=Homeopathy, naturopathy struck off private insurance list |author=Paola S |date=17 October 2017 |journal=Australian Journal of Pharmacy |url=https://ajp.com.au/news/homeopathy-naturopathy-struck-off-private-insurance-list/ |access-date=January 11, 2018 |archive-date=January 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003745/https://ajp.com.au/news/homeopathy-naturopathy-struck-off-private-insurance-list/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== India ===
In India, naturopathy is overseen by the [[Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy]] (AYUSH); there is a 5½-year degree in "Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences" (BNYS) degree that was offered by twelve colleges in India {{as of|2010|August|lc=y}}.<ref name=ayush1>Ministry of AYUSH. Page updated August 21, 2010 [http://indianmedicine.nic.in/index2.asp?slid=34&sublinkid=22&lang=1 AYUSH: Naturopathy] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150306043724/http://www.indianmedicine.nic.in/index2.asp?slid=34&sublinkid=22&lang=1 |date=2015-03-06 }}. Page accessed March 21, 2015</ref> The National Institute of Naturopathy in [[Pune]] that operates under AYUSH, which was established on December 22, 1986, and encourages facilities for standardization and propagation of the existing knowledge and its application through research in naturopathy throughout India.<ref name=ayush2>Ministry of AYUSH. Page updated September 23, 2010 [http://indianmedicine.nic.in/index3.asp?sslid=191&subsublinkid=84&lang=1 AYUSH: National Institute of Naturopathy, Pune] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150220002629/http://indianmedicine.nic.in/index3.asp?sslid=191&subsublinkid=84&lang=1 |date=2015-02-20 }}. Page accessed March 21, 2015</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://punenin.org/about.htm |title= About: National Institute of Naturopathy |access-date= March 21, 2015 |archive-date= March 6, 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150306211356/http://punenin.org/about.htm |url-status= live }}</ref>

{{anchor|Naturopathic Medical Doctor}}

=== North America ===
In five Canadian provinces, seventeen U.S. states, and the [[District of Columbia]], naturopathic doctors who are trained at an accredited school of naturopathic medicine in North America are entitled to use the designation ND or NMD. Elsewhere, the designations "naturopath", "naturopathic doctor", and "doctor of natural medicine" are generally unprotected or prohibited.<ref name="AMA-SOP-ND">{{Cite report |date=2009 |title=AMA Scope of Practice Data Series: Naturopaths |url=http://www.legis.state.ak.us/BASIS/get_documents.asp?session=26&docid=5692 |work=[[American Medical Association]] |via=The Alaska State Legislature |access-date=30 July 2016 |archive-date=June 29, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160629235905/http://www.legis.state.ak.us/BASIS/get_documents.asp?session=26&docid=5692 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="IMB_policy" />

In North America, each jurisdiction that regulates naturopathy defines a local scope of practice for naturopathic doctors that can vary considerably. Some regions permit minor surgery, access to prescription drugs, spinal manipulations, midwifery (natural childbirth), and gynecology; other regions exclude these from the naturopathic scope of practice or prohibit the practice of naturopathy entirely.<ref name="AMA-SOP-ND"/><ref name="Sunrise-2008">{{cite web|url=http://www.dora.state.co.us/OPR/archive/2008NaturopathicPhysiciansSunrise.pdf |archive-date= 2008-10-02 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081002001141/http://www.dora.state.co.us/opr/archive/2008NaturopathicPhysiciansSunrise.pdf |date= January 4, 2008 |title=2008 Sunrise Review: Naturopathic Physicians |pages=18–19 |website=Department of Regulatory Agencies |publisher=State of Colorado}}</ref>

==== Canada ====
Five Canadian provinces license naturopathic doctors: [[Ontario]], [[British Columbia]], [[Manitoba]], [[Saskatchewan]], and [[Alberta]].<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.cand.ca/index.php?40 |title= Questions: Education and Regulation |access-date= 2013-09-06 |work= Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors website |publisher= <!-- redundant to website name --> |author= <!-- no byline --> |date= <!-- no date in source --> |archive-date= July 6, 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110706170455/http://www.cand.ca/index.php?40 |url-status= live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = History of Naturopathic Medicine|url = http://www.cand.ca/index.php?51&L=0|website = www.cand.ca|access-date = 2016-02-17|archive-date = January 14, 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210114003735/https://www.cand.ca/?51&L=0|url-status = live}}</ref> British Columbia has the largest scope of practice in Canada, allowing certified NDs to prescribe pharmaceuticals and perform minor surgeries.<ref>{{cite news |title= B.C. gives naturopaths right to prescribe drugs |url= https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/b-c-gives-naturopaths-right-to-prescribe-drugs-1.843524 |date= April 10, 2009 |author= <!-- no byline CBC News staff --> |work= [[CBC News]] |access-date= September 6, 2013 |archive-date= August 20, 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120820102601/http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/story/2009/04/10/bc-naturopaths.html |url-status= live }}</ref> Ontario also permits prescription from a modified formulary list, following separate examination.<ref name="FNMRAlaws">{{cite web |title=Naturopathic Regulatory Authority General Information Links |url=https://fnmra.org/ras |website=The Federation of Naturopathic Medicine Regulatory Authorities |access-date=15 November 2023}}</ref>

====United States====
* U.S. jurisdictions that currently regulate or license naturopathy include [[Alaska]], [[Arizona]], [[California]], [[Connecticut]], [[Colorado]], [[Delaware]], [[Washington, D.C.|District of Columbia]], [[Hawaii]], [[Idaho]], [[Kansas]], [[Maine]], [[Maryland]], [[Massachusetts]], [[Minnesota]], [[Montana]], [[New Hampshire]], [[New Mexico]], [[North Dakota]], [[Oregon]], [[Pennsylvania]], [[Rhode Island]], [[Wisconsin]], [[Puerto Rico]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oslpr.org/download/ES/1997/208s0783.pdf |title=Ley para Reglamentar el Ejercicio de la Medicina Naturopática en Puerto Rico [Law to Regulate the Practice of Naturopathic Medicine in Puerto Rico] |language=es |date=December 30, 1997 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081002072926/http://www.oslpr.org/download/ES/1997/208s0783.pdf |archive-date= 2008-10-02}}</ref> [[United States Virgin Islands|US Virgin Islands]], [[Utah]], [[Vermont]], and [[Washington (state)|Washington]].<ref name="FNMRAlaws"/><ref name="LicState"/> Additionally, [[Virginia]] licenses the practice of naturopathy under a [[grandfather clause]]. (This was previously also the case in Florida, though currently no practitioners remain active under the grandfather provisions).<ref name="AMA-SOP-ND"/><ref>{{cite web |title=AN ENDANGERED SPECIES NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR IS CLOSE TO EXTINCTION |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1986/09/18/an-endangered-species-naturopathic-doctor-is-close-to-extinction/ |website=Orlando Sentinel |date=September 18, 1986 |access-date=17 November 2023}}</ref>
** U.S. jurisdictions that permit access to prescription drugs: Arizona, California, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Maine, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, and Washington.<ref name="FNMRAlaws"/>
** U.S. jurisdictions that permit minor surgery: Arizona, District of Columbia, Kansas, Maine, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, and Washington.
* Three U.S. states specifically prohibit the practice of naturopathy: [[Florida]],<ref name="ANCBlaws">{{cite web |title=Review of State Laws Regulating Naturopathy |url=https://ancb.net/legislative-action-and-advocacy/naturopathy-laws-state-by-state/ |website=American Naturopathic Certification Board |access-date=15 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Title XXXII REGULATION OF PROFESSIONS AND OCCUPATIONS Chapter 462 NATUROPATHY |url=http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0462/0462.html |website=Online Sunshine |publisher=Florida Legislature |access-date=17 November 2023}}</ref> [[South Carolina]]<ref name= "SC Code">{{cite web |url= http://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t40c031.htm |work= South Carolina Code of Laws (Unannotated), Current through the end of the 2007 Regular Session |title= Title 40, Chapter 31, Sections 10 & 20 |url-status= dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090112214025/http://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t40c031.htm |archive-date= January 12, 2009 |publisher= South Carolina Legislative Council}}</ref><ref name="AMA-SOP-ND"/> and [[Tennessee]].<ref name= "TN Code">{{cite web |at=63.6.205 Practice of naturopathy |title=Title 63 Professions of the Healing Arts, Chapter 6 Medicine and Surgery, Part 2 General Provisions |work=Tennessee Code Annotated |author=State of Tennessee |publisher=Justia |url=http://law.justia.com/codes/tennessee/2010/title-63/chapter-6/part-2/63-6-205/ |year=2013 |access-date=September 7, 2013 |archive-date=October 7, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131007015741/http://law.justia.com/codes/tennessee/2010/title-63/chapter-6/part-2/63-6-205 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="AMA-SOP-ND"/>

=== Switzerland ===
The [[Swiss Federal Constitution]] defines the Swiss Confederation and the [[Cantons of Switzerland]] within the scope of their powers to oversee complementary medicine.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.admin.ch/opc/en/classified-compilation/19995395/index.html#a118a/ |title= Federal Constitution of the Swiss Confederation |at= Art. 118a Complementary medicine |location= CH |access-date= July 4, 2015 |archive-date= June 21, 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160621000507/https://www.admin.ch/opc/en/classified-compilation/19995395/index.html#a118a/ |url-status= live }} (English translation)</ref> In particular, the Federal authorities must set up diplomas for the practice of non-scientific medicine. The first of such diplomas has been validated in April 2015 for the practice of naturopathy.<ref name="sbfi.admin.ch"/> There is a long tradition of naturopathy and traditional medicine in Switzerland.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Swiss take an holistic approach|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/swiss-take-an-holistic-approach-1.771119|access-date=2021-11-29|newspaper=The Irish Times|language=en}}</ref> The [[Cantons of Switzerland]] make their own public health regulations. Although the law in certain cantons is typically monopolistic, the authorities are relatively tolerant with regard to alternative practitioners.<ref name="apps.who.int"/>

=== United Kingdom ===
Naturopathy is not regulated in the [[United Kingdom]]. In 2012, publicly funded universities in the United Kingdom dropped their alternative medicine programs, including naturopathy.<ref>{{cite news |vauthors= Bevanger L |title= UK universities drop alternative medicine degree programs |url= http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,15673133,00.html |access-date= 2012-02-05 |newspaper= [[Deutsche Welle]] |date= January 18, 2012 |archive-date= January 25, 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120125180218/http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,15673133,00.html |url-status= live }}</ref>

== See also ==
{{Portal|Medicine}}
{{div col|colwidth=22em}}
* [[Appeal to nature]]
* [[Arnold Ehret]]
* [[Essential nutrient]]
* [[Friedrich Eduard Bilz]]
* [[Barbara O'Neill]]
* [[Health freedom movement]]
* [[Heilpraktiker]]
* [[Kneipp facility]]
* [[List of ineffective cancer treatments]]
* [[List of topics characterized as pseudoscience]]
* [[Megavitamin therapy]]
* [[Orthomolecular medicine]]
* [[Osteopathy]] and [[osteopathic medicine]]
* [[Phytonutrient]]
* [[Therapeutic nihilism]]
{{div col end}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category}}
* [http://www.cnme.org Council on Naturopathic Medical Education]
* [http://www.anma.org/ American Naturopathic Medical Association]
* [http://www.naturopathic.org/ American Association of Naturopathic Physicians]
* [http://www.cand.ca/ Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors]

{{Naturopathy}}
{{Traditional Medicine}}
{{Traditional Medicine}}
{{Pseudoscience}}
{{Authority control}}


[[Category:Alternative medical systems]]
[[Category:Naturopathy| ]]
[[Category:Naturopathic medicine| ]]
[[Category:Simple living]]
[[Category:Vitalism]]
[[Category:Vitalism]]
[[Category:Whole medical systems]]
[[Category:Pseudoscience]]
[[Category:Health fraud]]

[[da:Naturmedicin]]
[[de:Naturheilkunde]]
[[es:Medicina natural]]
[[eo:Naturkuracado]]
[[fr:Naturopathie]]
[[hi:प्राकृतिक चिकित्सा]]
[[it:Medicina naturopatica]]
[[he:נטורופתיה]]
[[ml:പ്രകൃതിചികിത്സ]]
[[nl:Natuurgeneeswijze]]
[[no:Naturmedisin]]
[[nn:Naturmedisin]]
[[pl:Naturopatia]]
[[pt:Medicina natural]]
[[ru:Натуропатия]]
[[th:ธรรมชาติบำบัด]]
[[tr:Naturopati]]

Latest revision as of 00:31, 19 October 2024

Naturopathy
Alternative medicine
Old homeopathic remedy, Hepar sulph.
A homeopathic preparation of Hepar sulph – homeopathy can be offered as part of naturopathic treatment.[1]
ClaimsDiseases are cured through the body's "natural healing" ability which is primarily aided by practices labelled as "natural" (and not primarily by pharmaceutical drugs, surgery, and other treatments within evidence-based medicine, not seen as "natural"), comprising widely ranging "nature cures" and any form of alternative medicine that may be labelled as "natural"
Related fieldsAlternative medicine
Original proponentsBenedict Lust; Sebastian Kneipp
MeSHD009324
See alsoHumorism, heroic medicine, vitalism

Naturopathy, or naturopathic medicine, is a form of alternative medicine.[1] A wide array of practices branded as "natural", "non-invasive", or promoting "self-healing" are employed by its practitioners, who are known as naturopaths. Difficult to generalize, these treatments range from the pseudoscientific and thoroughly discredited, like homeopathy, to the widely accepted, like certain forms of psychotherapy.[2][3][4] The ideology and methods of naturopathy are based on vitalism and folk medicine rather than evidence-based medicine, although practitioners may use techniques supported by evidence.[5][6][7] The ethics of naturopathy have been called into question by medical professionals and its practice has been characterized as quackery.[8][9][10][11][12]

Naturopathic practitioners commonly encourage alternative treatments that are rejected by conventional medicine, including resistance to surgery or vaccines for some patients.[13][14][15][16] The diagnoses made by naturopaths often have no basis in science and are often not accepted by mainstream medicine.[8][17]

Naturopaths frequently campaign for legal recognition in the United States. Naturopathy is prohibited in three U.S. states (Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee) and tightly regulated in many others. Some states, however, allow naturopaths to perform minor surgery or even prescribe drugs. While some schools exist for naturopaths, and some jurisdictions allow such practitioners to call themselves doctors, the lack of accreditation, scientific medical training, and quantifiable positive results means they lack the competency of true medical doctors.

History

The term "naturopathy" originates from "natura" (Latin root for birth) and "pathos" (the Greek root for suffering) to suggest "natural healing".[18] Naturopaths claim the ancient Greek "Father of Medicine", Hippocrates, as the first advocate of naturopathic medicine, before the term existed.[18][19] Naturopathy has its roots in the 19th-century Natural Cure movement of Europe.[20][21] In Scotland, Thomas Allinson started advocating his "Hygienic Medicine" in the 1880s, promoting a natural diet and exercise with avoidance of tobacco and overwork.[22][23]

The term naturopathy was coined in 1895 by John Scheel,[24] and purchased by Benedict Lust, whom naturopaths consider to be the "Father of U.S. Naturopathy".[25] Lust had been schooled in hydrotherapy and other natural health practices in Germany by Father Sebastian Kneipp; Kneipp sent Lust to the United States to spread his drugless methods.[26] Lust defined naturopathy as a broad discipline rather than a particular method, and included such techniques as hydrotherapy, herbal medicine, and homeopathy, as well as eliminating overeating, tea, coffee, and alcohol.[1] He described the body in spiritual and vitalistic terms with "absolute reliance upon the cosmic forces of man's nature".[27] According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the first known use of "naturopathy" in print is from 1901.[28]

From 1901, Lust founded the American School of Naturopathy in New York. In 1902, the original North American Kneipp Societies were discontinued and renamed "Naturopathic Societies". In September 1919, the Naturopathic Society of America was dissolved and Benedict Lust founded the American Naturopathic Association to supplant it.[25][29] Naturopaths became licensed under naturopathic or drugless practitioner laws in 25 states in the first three decades of the twentieth century.[25] Naturopathy was adopted by many chiropractors, and several schools offered both Doctor of Naturopathy (ND) and Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degrees.[25] Estimates of the number of naturopathic schools active in the United States during this period vary from about one to two dozen.[11][24][25]

After a period of rapid growth, naturopathy went into decline for several decades after the 1930s. In 1910, the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching published the Flexner Report, which criticized many aspects of medical education, especially quality and lack of scientific rigour. The advent of penicillin and other "miracle drugs" and the consequent popularity of modern medicine also contributed to naturopathy's decline. In the 1940s and 1950s, a broadening in scope of practice laws led many chiropractic schools to drop their ND degrees, though many chiropractors continued to practice naturopathy. From 1940 to 1963, the American Medical Association campaigned against heterodox medical systems. By 1958, practice of naturopathy was licensed in only five states.[25] In 1968, the United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare issued a report on naturopathy concluding that naturopathy was not grounded in medical science and that naturopathic education was inadequate to prepare graduates to make appropriate diagnosis and provide treatment; the report recommends against expanding Medicare coverage to include naturopathic treatments.[11][30] In 1977 an Australian committee of inquiry reached similar conclusions; it did not recommend licensure for naturopaths.[31]

Beginning in the 1970s, there was a revival of interest in the United States and Canada, in conjunction with the "holistic health" movement.[25][1] As of 2009, fifteen U.S. states, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia licensed naturopathic doctors,[32] and the State of Washington requires insurance companies to offer reimbursement for services provided by naturopathic physicians.[33][34] On the other hand, some states such as South Carolina and Tennessee prohibit the practice of naturopathy.[35][36][37]

In the United States, the Indian Health Service began accepting naturopathic doctors in their clinics and practice in 2013, also making loan repayment available to ND's.[38]

In 2015, a former naturopathic doctor, Britt Marie Hermes, began writing critically about her experience being trained in and practicing naturopathic medicine.[39][40] Her blog garnered a large following among skeptics while enraging some proponents of alternative medicine.[41]

Practice

A patient undergoing a hydrotherapy session
A nutritional supplement of Chromium(III) picolinate, Chromax II
Homeopathic preparations are commonly used by naturopaths.[42][43] The practice is considered a pseudoscience.[44]

In 2003, a report[45] was presented by Kimball C. Atwood, an American medical doctor and researcher from Newton, Massachusetts, best known as a critic of naturopathic medicine, stating among other criticisms that "The practice of naturopathy is based on a belief in the body's ability to heal itself through a special vital energy or force guiding bodily processes internally".[8]

Diagnosis and treatment concern primarily alternative therapies and "natural" methods that naturopaths claim promote the body's natural ability to heal.[1][46] Many naturopaths in India now use modern diagnostic techniques in their practice.[47] Naturopaths focus on a holistic approach, avoiding the use of surgery and conventional medicines.[11] Naturopaths aim to prevent illness through stress reduction and changes to diet and lifestyle, often rejecting the methods of evidence-based medicine.[5][48]

A consultation typically begins with a comprehensive patient interview assessing lifestyle, medical history, emotional tone, and physical features, as well as physical examination.[1] Many naturopaths present themselves as primary care providers, and some naturopathic physicians may prescribe drugs, perform minor surgery, and integrate other conventional medical approaches such as diet and lifestyle counselling with their naturopathic practice.[1][49] Traditional naturopaths deal exclusively with lifestyle changes, not diagnosing or treating disease. Naturopaths do not generally recommend vaccines and antibiotics, based in part on the early views that shaped the profession, and they may provide alternative remedies even in cases where evidence-based medicine has been shown effective.[10]

Methods

Naturopaths are often opposed to mainstream medicine and take an antivaccinationist stance.[10]

The particular modalities used by a naturopath vary with training and scope of practice. These may include herbalism, homeopathy,[42] acupuncture, nature cures, physical medicine, applied kinesiology,[50] colonic enemas,[26][43] chelation therapy,[12] color therapy,[50] cranial osteopathy, hair analysis, iridology,[50] live blood analysis, ozone therapy,[11] psychotherapy, public health measures and hygiene,[48] reflexology,[50] rolfing,[29] massage therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine. Nature cures include a range of therapies based on exposure to natural elements such as sunshine, fresh air, or heat or cold, as well as nutrition advice such as following a vegetarian and whole food diet, fasting, or abstention from alcohol and sugar.[51] Physical medicine includes naturopathic, osseous, or soft tissue manipulative therapy, sports medicine, exercise, and hydrotherapy. Psychological counseling includes meditation, relaxation, and other methods of stress management.[51]

A 2004 survey determined the most commonly prescribed naturopathic therapeutics in Washington state and Connecticut were botanical medicines, vitamins, minerals, homeopathy, and allergy treatments.[42] An examination published in 2011 of naturopathic clinic websites in Alberta and British Columbia found that the most commonly advertised therapies were homeopathy, botanical medicine, nutrition, acupuncture, lifestyle counseling, and detoxification.[43]

In 2020, a survey of methods used by naturopaths in fourteen countries reported that 27% of clients received acupuncture, 22% homeopathy, 16% "other energetic medicines", and 13.5% were given hydrotherapy. A mean of 4.0 "treatments" were provided to each customer. One-third (33%) of patients consulted with only the naturopath to manage their primary health concern.[52]

Evidence basis

Equipment for administering large enemas: a bag and a bucket, each holding a gallon. Enemas and colonic irrigation are commonly used by naturopaths for a wide range of medical conditions,[43] for which there are no known health benefits.[53]
A rectal bulb syringe for injecting a small enema
Patient undergoing Ozone IV Therapy
Person undergoing ozone IV therapy with ultraviolet irradiation. According to the FDA, "Ozone is a toxic gas with no known useful medical application in specific, adjunctive, or preventive therapy."[54]

Naturopathy as a whole lacks an adequate scientific basis,[5] and it is rejected by the medical community.[5] Although it includes valid lifestyle advice from mainstream medicine (healthy sleep, balanced diet, regular exercise),[10] it typically adds a range of pseudoscientific beliefs.[18] Some methods rely on immaterial "vital energy fields", the existence of which has not been proven, and there is concern that naturopathy as a field tends towards isolation from general scientific discourse.[18][55][56] Naturopathy is criticized for its reliance on and its association with unproven, disproven, and other controversial alternative medical treatments, and for its vitalistic underpinnings.[10][11] Natural substances known as nutraceuticals show little promise in treating diseases, especially cancer, as laboratory experiments have shown limited therapeutic effect on biochemical pathways, while clinical trials demonstrate poor bioavailability.[57] According to the American Cancer Society, "scientific evidence does not support claims that naturopathic medicine can cure cancer or any other disease".[11] According to Britt Hermes, naturopath student programs are problematic because "As a naturopath [student], you are making justifications to make the rules and to fudge the standards of how to interpret research all along the way. Because if you don't, you're not left with anything, basically".[58]

In 2015, the Australian Government's Department of Health published the results of a review of alternative therapies that sought to determine if any were suitable for being covered by health insurance; Naturopathy was one of 17 therapies evaluated for which no clear evidence of effectiveness was found.[59]

Kimball C. Atwood IV writes, in the journal Medscape General Medicine,[8]

Naturopathic physicians now claim to be primary care physicians proficient in the practice of both "conventional" and "natural" medicine. Their training, however, amounts to a small fraction of that of medical doctors who practice primary care. An examination of their literature, moreover, reveals that it is replete with pseudoscientific, ineffective, unethical, and potentially dangerous practices.

In another article, Atwood writes that "Physicians who consider naturopaths to be their colleagues thus find themselves in opposition to one of the fundamental ethical precepts of modern medicine. If naturopaths are not to be judged "nonscientific practitioners", the term has no useful meaning".[12]

A former licensed naturopathic doctor, Britt Marie Hermes, states that "any product that is sold by a naturopath almost guarantees that there is no reliable scientific data to support whatever health claims are made,[60] and that while some naturopaths claim to only practice evidence based medicine, "the problem is, all naturopaths in an accredited naturopathic program are required to extensively study homeopathy, herbal medicine, energy healing, chiropractic techniques, water therapy" and other pseudoscientific practices.[58] Hermes further notes that, while some naturopaths claim that their method can be effective treatments for psychological disorders, "no naturopathic treatment has been clinically proven to be safe and effective for bipolar disorder or any other condition."[61]

According to Arnold S. Relman, the Textbook of Natural Medicine is inadequate as a teaching tool, as it omits to mention or treat in detail many common ailments, improperly emphasizes treatments "not likely to be effective" over those that are, and promotes unproven herbal remedies at the expense of pharmaceuticals. He concludes that "the risks to many sick patients seeking care from the average naturopathic practitioner would far outweigh any possible benefits".[62]

The Massachusetts Medical Society states, "Naturopathic practices are unchanged by research and remain a large assortment of erroneous and potentially dangerous claims mixed with a sprinkling of non-controversial dietary and lifestyle advice."[63]

Safety of natural treatments

Naturopaths often recommend exposure to naturally occurring substances, such as sunshine, herbs and certain foods, as well as activities they describe as natural, such as exercise, meditation and relaxation. Naturopaths claim that these natural treatments help restore the body's innate ability to heal itself without the adverse effects of conventional medicine. However, "natural" methods and chemicals are not necessarily safer or more effective than "artificial" or "synthetic" ones, and any treatment capable of eliciting an effect may also have deleterious side effects.[11][26][64][65]

Certain naturopathic treatments offered by naturopaths, such as homeopathy, rolfing, and iridology, are widely considered pseudoscience or quackery.[66][67][68] Stephen Barrett of QuackWatch and the National Council Against Health Fraud has stated that naturopathy is "simplistic and that its practices are riddled with quackery".[26][69] "Non-scientific health care practitioners, including naturopaths, use unscientific methods and deception on a public who, lacking in-depth health care knowledge, must rely upon the assurance of providers. Quackery not only harms people, it undermines the ability to conduct scientific research and should be opposed by scientists", says William T. Jarvis.[70] In the 2018 Australian case against Marlyin Bodnar, who advised a mother to treat her infant son's eczema with a raw food diet which nearly led to the child's starvation death, Judge Peter Berman said, "Well intentioned but seriously misguided advice is, as the facts of this case demonstrate, capable of causing great harm and even death to vulnerable children."[71] Furthermore, Britt Hermes criticizes the "pervasive culture of patient blaming" among naturopathic practitioners, where "when something doesn't work for the patient and the patient is not experiencing all of the positive effects and zero side-effects that are promised with the therapy, it's never because the therapy doesn't work, it's because the patient didn't do something right."[58]

Vaccination

Cases of measles from 1938 to 1963 followed a highly variable epidemic pattern, with 150,000–850,000 cases reported per year. A sharp decline followed after the introduction of the first measles vaccine in 1963, with fewer than 25,000 cases reported in 1968. Outbreaks around 1971 and 1977 gave 75,000 and 57,000 cases, respectively. Cases were stable at a few thousand per year until an outbreak of 28,000 in 1990. Cases declined from a few hundred per year in the early 1990s to a few dozen in the 2000s.
Measles cases reported in the United States fell dramatically after the introduction of the measles vaccine.

Many naturopathy practitioners voice their opposition to vaccination. The reasons for this opposition are based, in part, on the early views which shaped the foundation of this occupation.[72] A naturopathy textbook, co-authored by Joseph Pizzorno, recalls anti-vaccine beliefs associated with the founding of naturopathy in the United States: "a return to nature in regulating the diet, breathing, exercising, bathing and the employment of various forces" in lieu of the smallpox vaccine.[73]

In general, evidence about associations between naturopathy and pediatric vaccination is sparse, but "published reports suggest that only a minority of naturopathic physicians actively support full vaccination".[74][75] In Washington state from 2000 to 2003, children were significantly less likely to receive immunizations if they had seen a naturopath.[74] A survey of naturopathic students published in 2004 found that students at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine became less likely to recommend vaccinations to their patients and became more distrustful of public health and conventional medicine as they advanced in the program.[15]

The British Columbia Naturopathic Association lists several major concerns regarding the pediatric vaccine schedule and vaccines in general,[76] and the group's policy is to not advocate for or against vaccines.[77] The Oregon Association of Naturopathic Physicians reports that many naturopaths "customize" the pediatric vaccine schedule.[78]

As of April 25, 2022, a British Columbia government report found that 69.2% of naturopaths reported having received at least two COVID vaccines or receiving a medical exemption. This was much lower than all the other regulated medical professions in the report. The number for two professions – dieticians and physicians/surgeons – was 98%.[79][80]

As of 2016, the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, which is the largest professional organization for licensed naturopaths in the U.S., is "still discussing its stance on vaccinations".[81]

Practitioners

Naturopath practitioners can generally be categorized into three groups: 1) those with a government issued license; 2) those who practice outside of an official status ("traditional naturopaths"); 3) those who are primarily another kind of health professional who also practices naturopathy.[11][82][83][84][85]

In Switzerland, these divisions fall between those with a federal diploma, those recognized by health insurances, and those with neither federal diploma nor recognition by health insurances. Naturopaths with federal diploma can be divided into four categories: European traditional medicine, Chinese traditional medicine, ayurvedic medicine and homeopathy.[86][87] The number of listed naturopaths (including traditional healers) in Switzerland rose from 223 in 1970 to 1835 in 2000.[88]

Licensed naturopaths

Licensed naturopaths may be referred to as "naturopathic doctors" or "naturopathic physicians" in 26 US states or territories and 5 Canadian provinces.[89] Licensed naturopaths present themselves as primary care providers.[1][49] Licensed naturopaths do not receive comparable training to medical doctors in terms of the quality of education or quantity of hours.[8][17]

In British Columbia, legislation permits licensed naturopaths to use the title "doctor" or "physician".[90] However, section 102 of the bylaw of the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia (CNPBC), the terms "naturopathic" or "naturopathic medicine" must be included anytime the term doctor or physician is used by a member of the CNPBC.[91][92][93][94]

Education

National University of Natural Medicine trains students in naturopathic medicine who are eligible to become licensed in some jurisdictions in North America.
The herb garden at Bastyr University, another naturopathic program whose graduates can become licensed naturopaths in some North American jurisdictions

Licensed naturopaths must pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) administered by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE)[95] after graduating from a program accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME).[49][96] Training in CNME-accredited programs includes basic medical diagnostics and procedures such as rudimentary physical exams and common blood tests, in addition to pseudoscientific modalities, such as homeopathy, acupuncture, and energy modalities.[8][12][26][1] These accredited programs have been criticized for misrepresenting their medical rigor and teaching subjects that are antithetical to the best understandings of science and medicine.[26][97][98] The CNME as an accrediting authority has been characterized as unreliable and suffering from conflicts of interest.[99][100][101] The naturopathic licensing exam has been called a mystery by those outside the naturopathic profession[12][63] and criticized for testing on homeopathic remedies,[97] including for the use to treat pediatric emergencies.[39]

Several schools in North America exist for the study of naturopathic medicine, some accredited by the CNME.[102] The CNME and the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges (AANMC) claim entrance requirements and curricula at accredited colleges are often similar or comparable to those required and offered at conventional medical schools.[103] However, the lack of accreditation by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education may indicate insufficiency of scientific medical training and/or quantifiable positive results, and accordingly it remains disputed whether graduates of medical colleges accredited by the CNME have the competency of Medical Doctors and Doctors of Osteopathy.[17][104]

Naturopathic doctors are not eligible for medical residencies, which are available exclusively for medical doctors and doctors of osteopathic medicine. There are limited post-graduate "residency" positions available to naturopathic doctors offered through naturopathic schools and naturopathic clinics approved by the CNME.[105] Most naturopathic doctors do not complete such a residency,[42] and naturopathic doctors are not mandated to complete one for licensure,[11] except in the states of Utah and Connecticut.[106] Continuing education in naturopathic modalities for health care professionals varies greatly.[50]

Political activity in the United States

Naturopathic practitioners affiliated with the CNME-accredited schools lobby state, provincial, and federal governments for medical licensure and participation in social health programs.[81][107] The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians represents licensed naturopaths in the United States;[81] the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors represents licensed naturopaths in Canada.[107] Naturopathic lobbying efforts are funded by vitamin and supplement makers[81] and focus on portraying naturopathic education as comparable to medical education received by physicians and on having high professional standards.[107][108] Medical societies and advocacy groups dispute these claims by citing evidence of licensed naturopathic practitioners using pseudoscientific methods without a sound evidence basis and lacking adequate clinical training to diagnose and treat disease competently according to the standard of care.[81][108][109][110] Jann Bellamy has characterized the process by which naturopathic practitioners and other practitioners of pseudoscience convince lawmakers to provide them with medical licenses as "legislative alchemy".[111]

Since 2005, the Massachusetts Medical Society has opposed licensure based on concerns that NDs are not required to participate in residency and concerns that the practices of naturopaths included many "erroneous and potentially dangerous claims".[112] The Massachusetts Special Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medical Practitioners rejected their concerns and recommended licensure.[113] The Massachusetts Medical Society states:[63]

Naturopathic medical school is not a medical school in anything but the appropriation of the word medical. Naturopathy is not a branch of medicine. It is a hodge podge of nutritional advice, home remedies and discredited treatments ... Naturopathic colleges claim accreditation but follow a true "alternative" accreditation method that is virtually meaningless. They are not accredited by the same bodies that accredit real medical schools and while some courses have similar titles to the curricula of legitimate medical schools the content is completely different.

In 2015, a former naturopathic doctor, Britt Marie Hermes, who graduated from Bastyr University and practiced as a licensed ND in Washington and Arizona, began advocating against naturopathic medicine.[114][39][115] In addition to opposing further licensure, she believes that NDs should not be allowed to use the titles "doctor" or "physician",[39] and be barred from treating children.[116][117] She states:[118]

Naturopaths aggressively lobby for laws to issue them medical licenses. I would characterize this political effort as a perverted redefinition of the words "physician", "doctor", "medical school", and "residency" in order to mask the inadequacy of the training provided in naturopathic programs. ND students do not realize that they are taking educational shortcuts and therefore do not possess any demonstrable competencies found in modern medicine.

Traditional naturopaths

Hugh Mercer Apothecary in Fredericksburg, Virginia, a pharmacy founded by Hugh Mercer, a Scottish physician, in the mid-18th century. It is now a museum demonstrating 18th Century medical treatments.

Traditional naturopaths are represented in the United States by the American Naturopathic Association (ANA), representing about 1,800 practitioners[119] and the American Naturopathic Medical Association (ANMA).[25]

The level of naturopathic training varies among traditional naturopaths in the United States. Traditional naturopaths may complete non-degree certificate programs or undergraduate degree programs and generally refer to themselves as naturopathic consultants. These programs often offer online unaccredited degrees, but do not offer comprehensive biomedical education or clinical training.

Traditional naturopathic practitioners surveyed in Australia perceive evidence-based medicine to be an ideological assault on their beliefs in vitalistic and holistic principles.[5] They advocate for the integrity of natural medicine practice.[5]

Naturopaths graduating from accredited programs argued in 2002 that their training used evidence-based scientific principles unlike traditional naturopathic programs,[120] but this claim remains inaccurate.[8][26]

Regulation

Naturopathy is practiced in many countries and is subject to different standards of regulation and levels of acceptance. The scope of practice varies widely between jurisdictions, with some covering naturopathy under medical regulation and allowing practitioners to prescribe drugs and perform minor surgery, while other jurisdictions outlaw naturopathy entirely.[citation needed]

Australia

In 1977, a Commonwealth Government inquiry reviewed all colleges of naturopathy in Australia and found that despite having syllabuses appearing to cover the basic biomedical sciences, actual lectures had little connection to those syllabuses and no significant practical work was available. In addition, there did not appear to be significant or systematic coverage of techniques favoured by naturopaths, such as homeopathy, Bach's floral remedies, or mineral salts.[31]

The position of the Australian Medical Association is that "evidence-based aspects of complementary medicine can be part of patient care by a medical practitioner", but it has concerns that there is "limited efficacy evidence regarding most complementary medicine. Unproven complementary medicines and therapies can pose a risk to patient health either directly through misuse or indirectly if a patient defers seeking medical advice." The AMA's position on regulation is that "there should be appropriate regulation of complementary medicine practitioners and their activities".[121]

In 2015, the Australian government found no clear evidence of effectiveness for naturopathy.[59] Accordingly, In 2017 the Australian government named naturopathy as a practice that would not qualify for insurance subsidies, saying this step would "ensure taxpayer funds are expended appropriately and not directed to therapies lacking evidence".[122]

India

In India, naturopathy is overseen by the Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH); there is a 5½-year degree in "Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences" (BNYS) degree that was offered by twelve colleges in India as of August 2010.[123] The National Institute of Naturopathy in Pune that operates under AYUSH, which was established on December 22, 1986, and encourages facilities for standardization and propagation of the existing knowledge and its application through research in naturopathy throughout India.[124][125]

North America

In five Canadian provinces, seventeen U.S. states, and the District of Columbia, naturopathic doctors who are trained at an accredited school of naturopathic medicine in North America are entitled to use the designation ND or NMD. Elsewhere, the designations "naturopath", "naturopathic doctor", and "doctor of natural medicine" are generally unprotected or prohibited.[37][83]

In North America, each jurisdiction that regulates naturopathy defines a local scope of practice for naturopathic doctors that can vary considerably. Some regions permit minor surgery, access to prescription drugs, spinal manipulations, midwifery (natural childbirth), and gynecology; other regions exclude these from the naturopathic scope of practice or prohibit the practice of naturopathy entirely.[37][126]

Canada

Five Canadian provinces license naturopathic doctors: Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.[127][128] British Columbia has the largest scope of practice in Canada, allowing certified NDs to prescribe pharmaceuticals and perform minor surgeries.[129] Ontario also permits prescription from a modified formulary list, following separate examination.[130]

United States

Switzerland

The Swiss Federal Constitution defines the Swiss Confederation and the Cantons of Switzerland within the scope of their powers to oversee complementary medicine.[135] In particular, the Federal authorities must set up diplomas for the practice of non-scientific medicine. The first of such diplomas has been validated in April 2015 for the practice of naturopathy.[86] There is a long tradition of naturopathy and traditional medicine in Switzerland.[136] The Cantons of Switzerland make their own public health regulations. Although the law in certain cantons is typically monopolistic, the authorities are relatively tolerant with regard to alternative practitioners.[87]

United Kingdom

Naturopathy is not regulated in the United Kingdom. In 2012, publicly funded universities in the United Kingdom dropped their alternative medicine programs, including naturopathy.[137]

See also

References

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  2. ^ Baran GR, Kiani MF, Samuel SP (2014). "Science, Pseudoscience, and Not Science: How do They Differ?". Healthcare and Biomedical Technology in the 21st Century. pp. 19–57. doi:10.1007/978-1-4614-8541-4_2. ISBN 978-1-4614-8540-7. within the traditional medical community it is considered to be quackery
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  4. ^ Psychotherapy can be evidence based, or pseudoscientific however, see:
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