Naturopathy may be a good first option before the traditional doctor

Naturopathy is an alternative and complimentary medicine that emphasizes treating the whole body and not just symptoms. Natural remedies like herbs and food are prescribed instead of drugs and surgery. Currently 18 U.S. states and territories regulate naturopathic medicine and there are six accredited schools in North America.

Naturopathic practitioners use a wide variety of treatments to heal the whole body but they are centered on six core interventions:

Acupuncture and oriental medicine
Botanical medicine
Homeopathy
Nutrition
Physical medicine
Psychological counseling

Practitioners, like their traditional counterparts, have principles that make up their doctor’s oath:

First, do no harm; provide the most effective health care available with the least risk to patients at all times (Primum Non Nocere).

Recognize, respect and promote the self-healing power of nature inherent in each individual human being. (Vis Medicatrix Naturae).

Identify and remove the causes of illness, rather than eliminate or suppress symptoms (Tolle Causum).

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)

So the next time you feel an ache or pain, consider self-healing to get at the rot of your problem. You may actually get a cure rather a prescription.