When seeking the naturopathic doctor Tempe AZ, it is first necessary to have a full understanding of exactly what they do. They do offer an alternative to more traditional medicine but not necessarily exclusive of it. Seeking more than one way to handle a health issue is just being smart. Good health is the one thing in this world no one can do without.

It is important to know that there is a difference between a naturopath and an ND. An ND must have a bachelor's degree, go to medical school for naturopathy and spend two years doing clinical training. They earn a doctorate to practice natural medicine. They will also have gone through all the necessary licensing and board examinations in their state.

Before committing to an appointment, take some time to check their credentials. Find out what medical college they attended. The list of accredited schools is very short. Ask if they are licensed to practice. Keep in mind that there are just sixteen states that have regulations in place for licensing. This is one reason that checking them out online or asking direct questions is important.

Natural medicine is what naturopathy is about. The physician takes into account all the different aspects of a persons life. Prepare to spend at least an hour in the doctor's office on the first visit. The physician will wish to review the mental, spiritual, emotional, environmental as well as physical state of their new patient. There will also be some testing needed. Creating from this information the way to best rid the patient of what may be making them ill.

It is common practice to use supplements, herbal medicines, and homeopathy. So are dietary changes and detox methods. After a diagnosis there is no one remedy for everyone. Treatment is highly individualized and usually involves more than one remedy. The patient is expected to be an active participant as well.

One of the primary mandates of practicing naturopathy is educating patients. When a person knows what is affecting them and how they are more likely to directly address it. They become active in caring for their health instead of passive. Along with changes in habits herbal remedies, supplements, and homeopathy may be prescribed. Often these are in office to ensure quality, since these are not regulated the same as traditional medicine.

Ben Franklin is quoted as saying "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure". This statement is taken seriously in naturopathy. Part of treating the whole person is knowing their medical history including genetic history. The ND will go over what can be done to prevent future illnesses. Diet, lifestyle and nutrition are usually the first to be addressed and used to enhance and build the immune system.

The naturopathic doctor Tempe AZ is there to help those who want a more natural approach to their health. Sometimes a less invasive approach to an issue is wanted. They work well for general medicine issues and will refer a patient to a specialist, the same as a traditional general practitioner. In seeking an ND, the patient is seeking a partner in caring for their health.