Naturopathic Medicines
What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is a holistic system of primary care medicine established on the understanding that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when given the proper conditions. The goal in naturopathy is to prevent and treat chronic illness and disease safely, naturally, and with the least invasive procedures. Natural therapeutic treatments including dietetics and nutritional substances, botanical medicine, hormone balancing, acupuncture, and lifestyle counseling are used to achieve optimum wellness.
What are the similarities and differences between Naturopathy and Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is rooted in the Eastern philosophy of Taoism and has evolved over 5,000 years. TCM is completely holistic and works to resolve the underlying health imbalance at its root, rather than treat symptoms.
TCM has five branches: acupuncture, herbal medicine, Tui Na (massage), Qui Gong (movement), and Dietetics (diet and lifestyle). The TCM view of the human body; what causes illness and how to treat disease is different than Western medicine. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are the most commonly practiced treatments in the West and are considered the most complimentary with Western health care. Chinese herbal medicine is based on the Eastern definition of herbal medicine.
Naturopathy has ancient roots also; however, as a system of primary medical care, it was formed in the early 20th century. Naturopathy is a holistic practice of primary care that is based on the principle that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when given proper conditions. The goal is to treat chronic illness and prevent disease with substances that work in harmony with the body.
A naturopathic doctor is trained in the Western standard medical care and also receives training in Herbal medicine, massage, homeopathy, Bach flower remedies, nutrition, and acupuncture to treat specific ailments. A naturopathic doctor also uses Western medical diagnostic techniques including x-ray’s, blood work, and lab tests to diagnose and measure progress.
Why does Silicon Valley Natural Health offer Naturopathy and TCM if each one is a complete system of healthcare?
Silicon Valley Natural Health has helped patients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area by providing a tailored approach to their healthcare based on their unique pattern of symptoms. It is our desire to provide the best methods to bring integrative, comprehensive, and holistic care to our patients with the goal to improve their health and quality of life.
Testimonial for Naturopathic Medicine
“Dr. Tran saw me immediately for severe abdominal pain when I could not get into my MD’s office. Dr. Tran diagnosed me with an ulcer and started me on natural and homeopathic treatments as well as helping me adjust my diet during this time. My MD later confirmed the ulcer diagnosis and recommended treatment with prescription meds but I wanted to give Dr. Tran’s treatment course a chance. I had quick relief of my ulcer with Dr. Tran’s care and treatment and I ended up not needing to have an endoscope or use prescription drugs for it.
I have been very pleased with Dr. Tran’s willingness to try various treatments in order to find the best fit for me. I like that she listens to what I have to say about my own body and works as a true partner in helping me help my body be the best and healthiest it can.”
–Debbie R.
Sunnyvale, CA
The Naturopathic Oath
I dedicate myself to the service of humanity as a practitioner of the art and science of Naturopathic medicine.
I will honor my teachers and all who have preserved and developed this knowledge and dedicate myself to supporting the growth and evolution of Naturopathic medicine.
I will endeavor continually to improve my abilities as a healer through study, reflection, and genuine concern for humanity.
I will impart knowledge of the advanced healing arts to dedicated colleagues and students.
Through precept, lecture, and example, I will assist and encourage others to strengthen their health, reduce risks for disease, and preserve the health of our planet for ourselves, our families, and future generations.
According to my best ability and judgment, I will use methods of treatment, which follow the principles of Naturopathic medicine:
First of all, to do no harm.
To act in cooperation with the Healing Power of Nature.
To address the fundamental causes of disease.
To heal the whole person through individualized treatment.
To teach the principles of healthy living and preventive medicine.
To recognize the therapeutic potential of the doctor-patient interaction.
I will conduct my life and the practice of Naturopathic health care with vigilance and integrity, and freedom from prejudice.
I will abstain from voluntary acts of injustice and corruption.
I will keep confidential whatever I am privileged to witness, whether professionally or privately, that should not be divulged.
With my whole heart, before this gathering of witnesses, as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, I pledge to remain true to this oath.