Naturopathy

Naturopathic medicine is a system and philosophy of medicine that has been around for thousands of years. Before ‘conventional’ medicine of drugs and surgical procedures, almost every doctor learned how to use herbs, minerals, and other natural methods to treat disease.

Naturopaths use these many different natural methods based on the concept that the body will heal itself if given the right stimulus. It is a holistic system of healing that includes herbal medicine, vitamins, massage, counseling as well as diet and nutrition. Naturopaths also use iridology as part of the consultations. Patients are treated as a whole person rather than just their symptoms.

An increasing number of people are turning to complementary medicine for everyday complaints which prescription medicine is not always able to treat. Naturopaths work closely with GPs believing that a combination of treatments are more beneficial. We acknowledge that there are certain conditions we cannot treat, as there are certain conditions that respond better to a more natural treatment. Natural medicine can be used safely alongside many conventional medicines without causing side-effects and this is often the most desirable benefit.

General guidelines to better health:

• Drink 2 litres of water per day
• Reduce alcohol, cigarettes, fizzy drinks, sugar & salt
• Vary food to reduce the risk of food intolerances
• Chew food thoroughly
• Eat every 4-5 hours to maintain blood sugar levels
• Eat 5 helpings of fruit/veg per day
• Eat protein with every meal
• Eat more complex carbohydrates for energy (wholegrains)
• Avoid yeast products, mushrooms and cheese
• Moderate dairy intake – calcium from other sources (nuts, fish, green leafy veg)
• 30 mins exercise 3 times a week

Jon Muscaty

Naturopathy is a multi-disciplinary approach to health care that recognises the body's innate power to heal itself. Naturopaths work from the premise that your body needs certain basics to function properly: the correct nutrients, adequate rest and relaxation, appropriate exercise, fresh air, clean water and sunlight. Whilst recognising the limitations of our modern world, your Naturopath will assist you to create a healthier diet and lifestyle that will help your health to return. Often your body needs assistance to function properly. Naturopaths are skilled in tailoring natural health programmes to your unique requirements.

The treatment may involve:

• Nutrition - optimum health through good food,
• Detoxification - cleansing programmes to allow healing to take place,
• Physical Therapy - to restore structural balance using Osteopathy, massage and reflexology,
• Hydrotherapy - hot and cold water treatments to encourage circulation,
• Exercise and Stress Management.