Naturopathy
Ready to tap into your body's incredible capacity for healing? Our Naturopathy section is your gateway to a world of natural wellness, focusing on uncovering and addressing the root causes of health imbalances for truly lasting results. Forget quick fixes. Here, you'll explore the foundational principles of naturopathic medicine and discover how to integrate powerful, natural strategies into your life.
20 Articles in Naturopathy
What Is a Holistic Doctor? (And How It Differs From a Naturopath)
"Holistic doctor" is a description, not a license. The person using it might be a medical doctor, a naturopathic doctor, a chiropractor, an acupuncturist, or someone with no license at all. Here is how to tell them apart.
Is a Naturopathic Doctor a Real Doctor? ND vs MD Training, Titles and Residency
A naturopathic doctor holds a real doctoral degree but is not a medical doctor. Here is how ND and MD training compare, what NDs may call themselves, and whether one can be your primary care provider.
What Is a Naturopathic Doctor? Training, What NDs Can Do, and What a Visit Involves
A naturopathic doctor graduates from an accredited four-year program and, in states that license NDs, passes board exams. Here is how that differs from a traditional naturopath, what NDs can and can't do, and what to expect at a first visit.
Why Do Doctors Hate Naturopaths? What the Criticism Is About and How to Choose Well
Most medical criticism of naturopaths comes down to training, evidence, scope of practice and unlicensed practitioners. Here is what each side says, and how to choose a naturopath your doctor can work with.
How Much Does a Naturopath Cost, and Does Insurance Cover It?
What naturopathic doctors charge for first visits, follow-ups, labs and programs, with real NYC examples, plus what private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid and an HSA will and won't pay.
Is Naturopathy Legit? What the Evidence Supports and Where It Falls Short
Naturopathy is a real, licensed profession in many states, but research on naturopathic care is limited and some common treatments have no good evidence. Here is a balanced look at what the studies show.
How to Find and Vet a Naturopathic Doctor
How to check a naturopathic doctor's credentials, which red flags to watch for, what happens at a first visit, and what to ask about cost and insurance before booking.
Can Naturopathic Doctors Order Lab Tests? Scope, Hormone Tests and Costs
A licensed naturopathic doctor's power to order lab tests comes from state law, so it varies from state to state. Here's how it works, how doctors choose tests for fatigue, which popular tests have weak evidence, and how lab costs are paid.
Which States License Naturopathic Doctors? A State-by-State List
Naturopathic doctors are licensed or registered in 23 states plus DC and Puerto Rico. Here is every state's status, its title rules, and how to verify a practitioner's license.
Can You Use an HSA for a Naturopathic Doctor? What Qualifies and How to Claim
Which naturopath, acupuncture, chiropractic and functional medicine costs an HSA or FSA can pay for under IRS rules, when supplements qualify, how to file a claim, and how the tax deduction works.
Can Naturopathic Doctors Prescribe Medication? A State-by-State Guide
Whether a naturopathic doctor can prescribe depends entirely on state law. This dated table shows each state's scope, controlled-substance limits and the source for every row.
What Is Naturopathy? Principles, Therapies and What the Evidence Says
Naturopathy is a system of care that aims to prevent and treat illness by addressing its causes. Here are its six principles, its common therapies, and an honest summary of what research does and doesn't support.
Can Naturopaths Prescribe Ozempic? Rules, Weight Loss and Compounded Semaglutide
Only licensed naturopathic doctors in states that allow it can prescribe Ozempic. Here is what that means for weight-loss use, Wegovy, compounded semaglutide and the questions to ask first.
Famous Naturopathic Doctors: Who They Are, Their Credentials and Their Critics
The best-known names in naturopathy, from Benedict Lust to Peter D'Adamo, with each person's real credential, what they are known for, and where their work has been criticized.
Which Is Better Homeopathy or Naturopathy?
When deciding between homeopathy and naturopathy, it is crucial to understand their differences. Homeopathy, developed by Samuel Hahnemann in the late 18th century, uses highly diluted substances to target specific symptoms while focusing on the whole person. Naturopathy, with its roots in ancient Greek holistic practices, emphasizes the body's natural healing ability, integrating various therapies such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, and nutritional counseling, and prioritizing prevention.
Which Is Better Ayurveda or Naturopathy?
When deciding between Ayurveda and Naturopathy, it depends on your personal health goals. Ayurveda, with its ancient roots in India, focuses on balancing body, mind, and spirit through doshas and holistic practices like yoga, meditation, and herbal treatments. Naturopathy, on the other hand, takes a more modern approach, emphasizing the body's ability to heal itself with natural remedies, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments.