Naturopathic medicine is a science-based tradition that promotes
wellness by identifying the unique aspects of each patient and
then employing non-toxic natural therapies to restore his or her
physiological, psychological, and structural balance. The
American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) defines
naturopathic medicine as: "A distinct system of primary health
care-an art, science, philosophy, and practice of diagnosis,
treatment, and prevention of illness. Naturopathic medicine is
distinguished by the principles upon which its practice is
based. These principles are continually re-examined in the light
of scientific advances. The techniques of naturopathic medicine
include modern and traditional, scientific, and empirical
methods" (AANP, 1998). Naturopathic practitioners are trained as
general practitioners specializing in natural medicine. They
cooperate with all other branches of medical science, referring
patients to other practitioners for diagnosis or treatment when
appropriate (AANP, 1998