Ayurveda and Naturopathic Treatment Modalities and Their Applications

Abstract

This article explores two holistic healing systems: Ayurveda and Naturopathy. Originating from ancient traditions, these systems emphasize the use of natural modalities to promote wellness and treat illness. The article delves into the treatment modalities of both systems and their applications in health and wellness.

Table of Content

Introduction

Ayurveda

History of Ayurveda

Methodology

Connection with Nature

Constitution (prakriti)

Life forces (doshas)

Applications

Study on Ayurveda

Naturopathy

History of Naturopathy

Methodology

• Naturopathic practice:
• Naturopathic education
• Naturopathic popularity
• Naturopathic research

The Six Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

First Do No Harm:

The Healing Power of Nature

Identify and Treat the Causes

Doctor as Teacher

Treat the Whole Person

Prevention

Applications

Case Example in Treating Children

Naturopathic Pediatric Research

Ayurveda vs Naturopathy

Conclusion

Patient Testimonials

Introduction

Ayurveda and Naturopathy are two holistic healing systems that have been practiced for thousands of years. Ayurveda, originating from India, translates to “knowledge of life” and focuses on balancing the body, mind, spirit, and environment (Ayurveda, n.d.). Naturopathy, on the other hand, is a system of primary healthcare that blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine (Naturopathic medicine, n.d.). Both approaches emphasize the use of natural modalities to promote wellness and treat illness.

Ayurveda

History of Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a traditional health system from India that focuses on the whole person, not just their physical health, but also their mental and spiritual well-being. Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest medical systems, dates back to 1500 BC. The term, derived from Sanskrit, translates to “science/knowledge of life.” Ancient texts that document a wealth of knowledge have been translated into several languages, including Tibetan, Greek, and Arabic, and continue to be used today.

As ancient and holistic as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Ayurvedic medical system from India is a crucial part of the National Health Care Network in India, providing essential primary care. Practitioners undergo extensive education and training in diverse environments. The system’s foundation lies in the concept of Prakriti (body composition), Doshas (body energies), and their harmonious connection with the universe.

Methodology

Ayurveda adopts a comprehensive approach to well-being, considering not just the physical and mental aspects of an individual, but also their philosophical and spiritual dimensions. This is achieved through bodily purification, herbal remedies, dietary changes, massage therapy, yoga, and meditation. Effective treatments encompass herbs, spices, minerals, and metals.

The focus on holistic mind and body care offers a balanced approach to healthcare that many desire. Treatments are tailored to each individual’s needs, maximizing health benefits and producing remarkable results. The ongoing evolution of Ayurveda enhances the chances of finding competent practitioners worldwide. Cons: The most significant challenge to this medicine is quality control. Due to the absence of universal guidelines for herbal treatment compositions, the formulas can vary significantly. The FDA has discovered that 20% of Ayurvedic medicines contain toxic metals, which can result in severe illness and even death.

In brief, Ayurvedic medicine is a holistic system that seeks to integrate and balance the body, mind, and spirit. This balance is believed to lead to happiness and health, and to help prevent illness. Ayurvedic medicine also treats specific physical and mental health problems, by seeking to correct the underlying root causes that have led to the development of these problems. It emphasizes:

Ayurvedic treatment starts with an internal purification process, followed by a special diet, herbal remedies, massage therapy, yoga, and meditation (Ayurveda, n.d.). The concepts of universal interconnectedness, the body’s constitution (prakriti), and life forces (doshas) are the primary basis of Ayurvedic medicine. Ayurveda uses herbs, metals, minerals, and other materials extensively in its treatments.

Connection with Nature

Ayurvedic medicine believes that each person is connected to and should live in harmony with the rhythms of nature, e.g. seasons.

Constitution (prakriti)

Constitution refers to the unique body type an individual is born with. The prakriti is a person’s unique combination of physical and psychological characteristics and patterns, tendencies, and weaknesses. The prakriti is believed to be unchanged over a person’s lifetime. The goal in Ayurvedic treatment is to correct imbalances and achieve a harmonized, well functioning physiology that is as close as possible to one’s prakriti.

Life forces (doshas)

Each person’s physiology is governed by the three life forces or energies called doshas. These control all the activities of the body.

• Each dosha is made up of two of five basic elements: space, air, fire, water, and earth.
• Each person is born with a unique combination of the three doshas, although one dosha is usually prominent. Doshas are constantly being formed and reformed by food, activity, and bodily processes.
• Each dosha has its own physical and psychological characteristics.
• An imbalance of a dosha will produce symptoms that are unique to that dosha. Imbalances may be caused by a person’s age, unhealthy lifestyle, or diet; too much or too little mental and physical exertion; the seasons; or inadequate protection from the weather, chemicals, or germs.

Now let’s talk a little more about the cornerstone of Ayurveda, the doshas. The doshas are known by their original Sanskrit names: vata, pitta, and kapha.

The vata dosha combines the elements space and air. It is considered the most powerful dosha because it controls very basic body processes such as cell division, the heartbeat, breathing, discharge of waste, and the mind. Vata can be aggravated by, for example, fear, grief, staying up late at night, eating excessively dry cold foods, or eating before the previous meal is digested. People with vata as their main dosha are thought to be especially susceptible to skin and neurological conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, anxiety, and insomnia.

The pitta dosha represents the elements fire and water. Pitta controls hormones and the digestive system. A person with a pitta imbalance may experience negative emotions such as anger and may have physical symptoms such as heartburn, rashes, or inflammation. Pitta is upset by, for example, eating spicy or sour food, fatigue, or spending too much time in the sun. People with a predominantly pitta constitution are thought to be susceptible to hypertension, heart disease, infectious diseases, and digestive conditions.

The kapha dosha combines the elements water and earth. Kapha helps to maintain strength and immunity and to control growth. An imbalance of the kapha dosha may cause excessive sleepiness, obesity, problems with blood sugar, or nausea immediately after eating. Kapha is aggravated by, for example, greed, sleeping during the daytime, eating too many sweet foods, eating after one is full, and eating and drinking foods and beverages with too much salt and water (especially in the springtime). Those with a predominant kapha dosha are thought to be vulnerable to diabetes, obesity, and respiratory illnesses such as asthma. (Patwardhan et al., 2005)

Applications

Now let’s talk briefly about treatment. The goal of treatment is to restore each person’s doshas to their original state of balance, what they were born with. Ayurvedic treatment is tailored to each person’s constitution. The goal is not to acquire equal amounts of all 3 doshas but rather to attain one’s own individual unique balance. Therapies include:

• Dietary recommendations individualized to each person
• Cleansing and detoxification therapies
• Herbal therapies
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Exercise: Individualized to a person’s constitution
• Massage: Medicated herbal oils are often used

This is how Ayurveda is used to help people. For example, if someone is feeling stressed, an Ayurvedic practitioner might suggest certain types of meditation or yoga. If someone has a physical illness, they might recommend specific herbal remedies or dietary changes.

Study on Ayurveda

A study (Anantha Narayana, 2021) in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine challenges the common claim that Ayurveda has no scientific basis. By scientific basis, we mean the results of human clinical trials that follow the same standards as those for pharmaceuticals, involving randomized controlled trials (RCT) with either a placebo or an active control. This study examines the reality of Ayurveda practice, medicine use, therapy application, and individual ingredients. It provides some examples and shows the availability of a large body of scientific data in this field. The paper, however, does not address the issues and difficulties of conducting RCTs.

Many people, both in the media and in the scientific community, assert that Ayurveda has no evidence. Most of the healthcare in India is based on drugs and pharmaceuticals, devices and diagnostics. This healthcare is provided by doctors (MBBS or MD qualified) who have education and training in the modern biomedicine/surgery, which is different from what the vaidyas (Ayurvedic practitioners) are taught. There have been efforts to supplement or replace drugs and pharmaceuticals with Ayurvedic therapies/medicines for decades. (Anantha Narayana, 2021)

It is estimated that there are more than 700,000 registered vaidyas in India (with BAMS or MD Ayurveda qualification) who do not need to question the evidence, because they have education and training in the practice of Ayurveda. Some of these vaidyas also undergo an integrative medicine course that includes exposure to synthetic molecule based drugs along with Ayurveda. Some of the vaidyas also use modern medicine in their practice sometimes to give quick relief along with Ayurvedic methods and medicines. Vaidyas use preparations that are either from the granthas (authoritative texts) or proprietary Ayurvedic medicines (PAM) supplied by manufacturers or from Ayurvedic formulary or Materia Medica in their practice. (Anantha Narayana, 2021)

There are 57 Ayurvedic books that are recognized as authoritative texts in the First Schedule to the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of India (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, 1945). These texts provide detailed recipes of the herbs/ingredients, levels of usage, process for manufacture, dose, indications and other relevant information. These preparations that are made according to the textual recipe are generally called Ayurvedic drugs as per the Act or in common terms as classical preparations.

The Drugs and Cosmetics Act allows combinations of ingredients that are listed in the granthas, but differ from the grantha recipes under a category called PAM. More than 80% of PAMs have medicinal plants as their active ingredients. Medicinal plants based products are available worldwide, but not all of them may have been listed in the granthas. Medicinal plants based products that are made from those plants that have a reference to the history of usage in granthas qualify as Ayurvedic medicines. However, those that do not have a reference in the granthas qualify as herbal medicines. The use of either an Ayurvedic drug or a PAM as a supplement, add on or replacement for drugs and pharmaceuticals, requires acceptance and adoption by the doctors. This is where the evidence of efficacy and safety becomes relevant. (Anantha Narayana, 2021)

The claim that Ayurveda lacks evidence is wrong. More specifically, the evidence required is for the Ayurvedic therapies (commonly called massages) and Ayurvedic medicines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving human subjects/patients with a group receiving either the treatment (medicine) or a placebo are considered necessary for such evidence. Do such evidences exist?

It’s understood that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is in the process of digitizing all data from their publications to make them accessible for online searches. However, many databases are not freely accessible and require a subscription. Accessing granthas and books, which provide a documented history of safe and effective use, can be challenging, especially since many are in Sanskrit. The Charaka Samhita, the first treatise on Ayurvedic healthcare science dating back to 1500 BC, along with a few later granthas, have been digitized by private organizations.

These publications contain scientific data on over 600 commonly used Indian medicinal plants, including results from human clinical studies. However, there may still be gaps in the data for specific effects or benefits. India is one of the few countries with such documented traditional knowledge and evidence of historical use. The important chapter in Ayurveda, Agada tantra, outlines safety and toxicology aspects in Ayurveda. Vaidyas cite these texts, stating that extensive observations and studies were required before any ingredient could be included in the recipes of granthas, often requiring as much as 50 years of safety profile knowledge. (Tripathi, 2010)

In scientific inquiry, it’s often said that ‘the absence of evidence is not the evidence of absence’. Dr. Mashelakar, a renowned scientist and former Director General of CSIR, has been quoted saying “parachutes work only when they are open”.

The general assumption that Ayurveda lacks evidence should be reconsidered. (Anantha Narayana, 2021)

The goal of Ayurveda is to create a balance between the body, mind, and spirit. This balance is believed to lead to better health and well-being. So, whether you’re dealing with a physical illness, mental stress, or just want to maintain good health, Ayurveda offers a range of natural treatments that can be tailored to your individual needs.

Naturopathy

Naturopathic medicine is a holistic healthcare system that combines modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine.

Naturopathic medicine is a comprehensive approach to healthcare that seeks to address the root causes of illness, rather than merely treating symptoms. It emphasizes the healing of the entire individual through personalized care and promotes the principles of healthy living and preventive medicine. It is a type of healthcare that uses a variety of natural treatments to help prevent and treat diseases.

History of Naturopathy

Naturopathy is a holistic healthcare system that was established in the United States in 1901 by Benedict Lust, MD1–9, who worked with other pioneers to develop the profession. (Stargrove et al., 2018) Naturopathy went through various stages of growth, formation, fragmentation, and decline due to internal conflicts and external pressures; but it revived in the 1970’s. It evolved from Naturopathy to Naturopathic medicine starting in the 1960’s, expanding from 1 college (Pizzorno et al., 2011), 21 licensed states, 3 licensed provinces and about 200 licensed Naturopathic physicians in North America (Zeff et al., 2006) to 7 colleges, 22 licensed and regulated states, 3 regulated territories and districts, and 5 licensed and regulated Canadian provinces in the US and Canada; becoming an estimated 8000 licensed ND’s in North America by 2019 (American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, 2019) and about 100 000 naturopaths worldwide in the process of professionalizing. (Lloyd et al., 2015)

The profession’s resurgence in the 1970’s was driven by a new generation with few experienced teachers due to a gap in the profession. Much of the early naturopathic knowledge and practice was lost or forgotten during the profession’s near collapse, and only gradually made its way into the classrooms of the 1970’s and 1980’s. The guidance and instruction of senior physicians and clinicians from this era was influential. The profession’s roots were largely ignored out of lack of awareness, and perhaps, a sense of pride.

By the early 1980s, it became clear that restoring the achievements of Lust, Lindlahr and Carroll would require the creation of a unified professional organization and everything that involved: more schools, accreditation for schools, national standards in education and licensure, clinical research, increased federal and state legislation, and the articulation of a clear definition of the profession for legislative purposes, as well as for its own internal development. These accomplishments would be necessary to demonstrate the uniqueness and validity of the profession, guide its educational process, and justify its status as a separate and distinct medical profession.(Stargrove et al., 2018)

In 1986, the newly formed (1985) American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) started this task of developing a unified professional organization under the leadership of James Sensenig, ND (president) and Cathy Rogers, ND (vice president). Four tasks were developed and committees with specific chairs were assigned:

(1) Accreditation of Naturopathic schools through governmental accreditation bodies (Joseph Pizzorno, ND),

(2) Standard independent national licensure examination (Ed Smith, ND),

(3) A peer-reviewed scientific journal (Peter D’ Adamo, ND)

The fourth was the Select Committee on the Definition of Naturopathic Medicine, appointed to develop a new unifying definition of naturopathic medicine, co-chaired by Pamela Snider, ND and Jared Zeff, ND with committee members Bruce Milliman, ND, K. Wilson, ND, William Wulsin, ND, and Peter Glidden, ND. The Select Committee on the Definition of Naturopathic Medicine succeeded in its 3-year effort, resulting in the unanimous adoption by AANP’s House of Delegates (HOD) of a comprehensive, consensus definition of naturopathic medicine in 1989 at the annual AANP convention held at Rippling River, OR. (Select Committee on the Definition of Naturopathic Medicine, 1989)

From 1987-1989 The Select Committee led the US profession in an iterative, progressive process of inclusive, profession wide input, review, classification of agreements and disagreements, negotiation, revision, publication of serial drafts and repeated review. The first point of unanimous consensus was to define the profession by its principles, not by its modalities. The Committee sought a defining statement that represented the profession’s highest water mark, the best of its common thinking and aspirations vs. a mediocre and less controversial statement. (Snider & Zeff, 2019)

There are a few key points in regards to its history:

– Naturopathy traces its roots to the 19th-century Natural Cure movement of Europe, which advocated the use of natural methods such as water, air, diet, and herbs to treat illness. (Society of Naturopaths, n.d.)

– The term “naturopathy” was coined by John Scheel in 1895 and popularized by Benedict Lust, who is considered the “father of naturopathy” in America. Lust founded the first naturopathic school, college, and professional association in the US. (Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges, n.d.)

– Naturopathy flourished in the early 20th century, but declined in the mid-century due to the rise of conventional medicine, antibiotics, and drugs. However, it experienced a revival in the 1970s, as people became more interested in alternative and preventive medicine. (Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges, n.d.)

– Today, naturopathy is recognized and regulated in many countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and India. Naturopathic doctors undergo rigorous education and training in accredited naturopathic medical schools and must pass national board exams to obtain licensure. (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, 2019)

Methodology

These are the different methods or treatments used in naturopathy. This holistic medical approach prioritizes the healing of the body, mind, and spirit using natural methods. The goal of Naturopathic Medicine is to enhance an individual’s health in a holistic manner, focusing on overall patient wellness by addressing the underlying cause of an illness.

The practice of naturopathic medicine involves diagnosing and managing patients’ primary care needs using natural methods. These methods encompass naturopathic counseling, nutrition, wellness counseling, botanicals, physical medicine, homeopathy, physiotherapy, electrotherapy, and natural pharmaceuticals. They can also include things like nutrition advice, herbal and nutritional supplements, counseling, homeopathy, acupuncture, and physical therapies. Some naturopathic doctors can even perform minor surgeries or prescribe certain medications. The idea is to use natural ways to help the body heal itself and prevent illness.

In fact, naturopathic medicine emphasizes the use of natural modalities such as nutrition, lifestyle counseling, botanical medicine, and physical therapies (Naturopathic medicine, n.d.). It also includes minor surgeries and the use of prescription drugs under certain circumstances. Naturopathic doctors work according to a set of basic principles that include stimulating the healing power of the body and addressing the underlying causes of disease.

This approach aims to foster sustainable lifestyle changes that lead to a happier and healthier life, without relying on modern, conventional medicine. By focusing on natural healing methods and preventive care, naturopathic medicine empowers individuals to take control of their health and well-being.

• Naturopathic practice: Naturopathic medicine is a holistic approach that combines conventional and complementary therapies based on six principles and a therapeutic order. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are trained as generalists and can use various modalities such as nutrition, mind-body medicine, botanical medicine, acupuncture, and spinal manipulation.
• Naturopathic education: NDs complete a four-year post-graduate medical education at an accredited program that blends biomedical and traditional knowledge. They also have to pass standardized board exams and local regulatory exams to practice in regulated jurisdictions. Some NDs pursue additional training or certification in areas such as pediatrics, acupuncture, or public health.
• Naturopathic popularity: Naturopathic medicine is gaining interest and acceptance among consumers, especially the baby boomer generation, who are looking for ways to improve their health, prevent disease, and manage chronic conditions. Internet access, patient education, and medical pluralism are some of the factors that contribute to this trend.
• Naturopathic research: Naturopathic medicine is supported by scientific evidence that shows the safety and efficacy of many integrative therapies. Researchers are studying these approaches to identify the best practices and outcomes for different health issues. Physicians are also integrating aspects of complementary medicine into conventional care. (Solomonian, 2022, #)

The Six Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

Naturopathic medicine is all about using the power of nature to heal the body. It’s like using the body’s own “superpowers” to fight off illness and stay healthy. Here’s what that means in simpler terms:

First Do No Harm: This means that naturopathic doctors (NDs) always try to use treatments that are safe and won’t harm the patient. For example, instead of using a strong drug that might have side effects, an ND might suggest a change in diet first.

The Healing Power of Nature: NDs believe that our bodies have a natural ability to heal themselves. They use treatments that support this natural healing process. For example, if you have a cold, an ND might suggest rest and drinking lots of fluids to help your body fight off the virus.

Identify and Treat the Causes: Instead of just treating the symptoms, NDs try to find and treat the cause of the illness. For example, if a patient has chronic headaches, an ND would try to figure out what’s causing the headaches, like stress or poor diet, and treat that instead of just giving medicine to take away the headache.

Doctor as Teacher: NDs spend time educating their patients about their health and how to maintain it. This could be teaching a patient about the benefits of healthy eating, or how to manage stress.

Treat the Whole Person: NDs look at all aspects of a patient’s health, including physical, mental, and emotional health. They understand that all these aspects are connected and need to be considered when treating a patient.

Prevention: NDs focus on preventing health problems before they start. This could be suggesting regular exercise to prevent heart disease, or a healthy diet to prevent diabetes.

So, in a nutshell, naturopathic medicine is all about using natural and safe treatments, focusing on education, treating the whole person, and preventing disease. (The Six Principles of Naturopathic Medicine, n.d.)

Image from (Solomonian, 2022, #)

Applications

Naturopathic medicine is a type of healthcare that uses a variety of natural treatments to prevent and treat diseases. It’s like a one-stop-shop for health care, using the best therapies to meet each patient’s unique needs.

Naturopathic doctors, often seen as the family doctors of natural medicine, all believe in the same core principles that the profession was founded on. They’ve started to use modern scientific methods in their work and contribute to research, which has helped the profession grow and gain more recognition.

Unlike many other types of natural medicine, naturopathic medicine is partly regulated by law. This means that in places where it’s officially recognized, there are set standards for education and practice. This regulation has also helped naturopathic medicine work together with other types of medical science. (Smith & Logan, 2002)

Patients who see naturopathic doctors in these places can expect high-quality care because the practitioners have to meet standards set by state or provincial law.

This is how naturopathy is used to help people. For example, if someone is feeling stressed, a naturopathic doctor might suggest certain types of meditation or dietary changes. If someone has a physical illness, they might recommend specific herbal remedies or exercises.

As more and more alternative therapies are being used together, traditional medicine is facing new challenges. Naturopathic doctors, who are well-trained and licensed, are ready to play an active role in this new healthcare team. The exact role is still being figured out, but the wide-ranging approach taken by naturopathic doctors could be very helpful in this evolution.

So, whether you’re dealing with a physical illness, mental stress, or just want to maintain good health, naturopathy offers a range of natural treatments that can be tailored to your individual needs.

Case Example in Treating Children

Naturopathic Pediatric Practice is a way of taking care of children’s health using naturopathy, which is a type of medicine that uses natural treatments. Here’s what it involves:

1. Wellness promotion: Naturopathic doctors (NDs) help children stay healthy. They teach families about good nutrition, exercise, and other ways to prevent illness.
2. Prevention of disease: NDs try to stop diseases before they start. For example, they might advise families on how to avoid common childhood illnesses like the flu or ear infections.
3. Surveillance and screening for developmental delay or disease: NDs keep an eye on how children are growing and developing. They use regular check-ups to catch any potential health problems early.
4. Management of acute and chronic illness: If a child gets sick, NDs can help manage their illness. They use natural treatments whenever possible.
5. Coordination of care: If a child needs to see other healthcare providers, NDs can help coordinate their care.
6. Advocacy for a healthy community and environment: NDs also work to make sure children live in a healthy environment. They might advocate for clean air and water in the community, for example.

In addition to all this, NDs spend a lot of time teaching families about health and wellness. They might ask families to keep a diary of what the child eats, how much they sleep, and how much physical activity they get. This helps the ND understand the child’s lifestyle and make recommendations for improvement.

Finally, if a child gets sick, the ND will create a treatment plan that uses natural therapies as much as possible. This is called an “integrative pediatric plan.” (Solomonian, 2022, #)

There are some terms to be familiarized with in terms of naturopathic practice:

1. Evidence-Informed Naturopathic Practice: This means that naturopathic doctors (NDs) use the best available evidence from scientific research to guide their treatment plans. They consider the safety and effectiveness of different treatments for each patient’s specific situation. For example, if a child has a cough, the ND might look at research studies to see which natural remedies have been shown to be safe and effective for children’s coughs.
2. Informed Consent: This means that the ND explains all the treatment options to the child’s family, including the benefits and risks of each one. The family then makes an informed decision about which treatments they want to use. For example, if a certain herbal remedy could potentially interact with a medication the child is already taking, the ND would explain this to the family before they decide whether to use the herbal remedy.
3. Management of Disease: When a child is sick, the ND creates a treatment plan that uses natural therapies as much as possible. This plan is tailored to the child’s specific needs and is based on the best available evidence.
4. Ethical Issues in Practice Management: NDs are expected to act ethically in their practice. This includes being honest about any potential conflicts of interest, such as if they could profit from selling a certain natural health product. They are also required to report any suspected child abuse or neglect.

Naturopathic doctors, who treat children, have a few important responsibilities:

1. Ethical Issues in Practice Management: They must be honest and transparent about any conflicts of interest they might have, like if they could make money from selling a certain health product. They also have to report any suspected child abuse or neglect.
2. Advocacy for a Healthy Community and Environment: They work to make sure children live in a healthy environment. They understand that things like poverty, stress, and pollution can affect a child’s health. They also know that children are more affected by environmental problems than adults. So, they try to improve access to naturopathic care for vulnerable children and advocate for social and environmental justice.

In simple terms, naturopathic doctors try to do what’s best for the child’s overall health, not just treat a specific illness. They consider everything from the child’s diet and lifestyle to their social and environmental conditions. And they always aim to use the most natural and least harmful treatments.

Naturopathic Pediatric Research

There is a growing body of evidence supporting the use of naturopathic medicine in pediatric care. A systematic review of the literature on the use of naturopathic medicine in children found that naturopathic treatments were safe and effective for a variety of pediatric health conditions, including asthma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and acute otitis media. However, some authors noted that more high-quality research is needed to further validate these findings. (Solomonian, 2022, #) Several studies have examined the use of naturopathic medicine in the treatment of pediatric conditions. For example, a randomized controlled trial found that a naturopathic treatment protocol was effective in improving lung function and reducing the severity of symptoms in children with asthma. Another study found that a naturopathic approach to the treatment of ADHD resulted in significant improvements in attention and behavior, as well as a reduction in the need for conventional medication. (Philipsborn & Chan, 2018, #)

Despite these promising findings, there is a need for more rigorous research in the field of naturopathic pediatrics. Many of the existing studies are small and have methodological limitations, such as a lack of control groups or blinding. Furthermore, there is a need for more research on the safety and efficacy of specific naturopathic treatments in children.

Research on naturopathic medicine for children is growing and showing positive results. Studies have found that naturopathic treatments can be safe and effective for various health issues in children, like asthma and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). For instance, one study showed that a naturopathic treatment helped improve lung function and reduce symptoms in children with asthma. Another study found that a naturopathic approach improved attention and behavior in children with ADHD, and reduced their need for conventional medication. (Philipsborn & Chan, 2018, #)

However, more high-quality research is needed. Some of the current studies are small and have limitations, like not having control groups for comparison or not being able to keep participants and researchers in the dark about who is receiving which treatment (known as blinding). Also, more research is needed to understand the safety and effectiveness of specific naturopathic treatments in children. So, while the results so far are promising, there’s still a lot more to learn.

Naturopathic Pediatric Practice in the Context of the Broader Healthcare System Naturopathic doctors are trained to work collaboratively with other healthcare providers and to refer patients to other practitioners when necessary. In some cases, NDs may serve as the primary care provider for a child, while in others, they may provide complementary care alongside conventional medical treatments. The role of the ND in pediatric care can vary depending on the regulatory environment, the individual practitioner’s scope of practice, and the needs and preferences of the patient and their family. In many cases, families seek out naturopathic care because they are interested in a more holistic approach to health, or because they are seeking alternatives to conventional treatments. Some families may choose to use naturopathic medicine as a complement to conventional care, while others may use it as their primary form of healthcare.

Regardless of how families choose to incorporate naturopathic medicine into their healthcare regimen, NDs strive to provide care that is safe, effective, and centered on the needs of the child. Naturopathic doctors are also advocates for their patients within the broader healthcare system. They work to ensure that their patients have access to the care they need and that they are able to make informed decisions about their health. This advocacy work can involve educating other healthcare providers about naturopathic medicine, working with insurance companies to ensure coverage for naturopathic treatments, and advocating for policies that support the integration of naturopathic medicine into the broader healthcare system.

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are trained to work together with other healthcare providers to take care of children. Sometimes, they might be the main doctor for a child. Other times, they might provide care alongside other treatments a child is getting. The role of the ND can change based on things like local laws, what the ND is allowed to do, and what the patient and their family need and want.

Many families choose naturopathic care because they want a more holistic approach to health, or they’re looking for alternatives to conventional treatments. Some families might use naturopathic medicine along with conventional care, while others might use it as their main form of healthcare. No matter how families use naturopathic medicine, NDs aim to provide care that is safe, effective, and focused on the child’s needs. (Solomonian, 2022, #)

NDs also stand up for their patients in the larger healthcare system. They work to make sure their patients can get the care they need and make informed decisions about their health. This can involve teaching other healthcare providers about naturopathic medicine, working with insurance companies to get coverage for naturopathic treatments, and advocating for policies that support the use of naturopathic medicine in the larger healthcare system.

The naturopathic profession has a long history of providing pediatric care. Naturopathic doctors are trained to provide primary and consultative care to children, and to work collaboratively with other healthcare providers. They utilize a variety of treatment modalities, with an emphasis on lifestyle and nutritional interventions, and the use of natural health products. The profession is guided by a set of principles that emphasize the promotion of health, the prevention of disease, and the treatment of the whole person. There is a growing body of evidence supporting the use of naturopathic medicine in pediatric care. However, more high-quality research is needed to further validate these findings and to guide clinical practice. Naturopathic doctors are committed to providing evidence-informed care, and to continuing to build the evidence base for naturopathic medicine. Naturopathic doctors are also advocates for their patients within the broader healthcare system. They work to ensure that their patients have access to the care they need, and that they are able to make informed decisions about their health. This advocacy work is an important part of the naturopathic profession’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of children.

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) have a long history of taking care of children. They’re trained to provide primary care and consultative care, and to work together with other healthcare providers. They use a variety of treatments, focusing on lifestyle and nutrition, and using natural health products. They follow a set of principles that emphasize promoting health, preventing disease, and treating the whole person.

There’s a growing amount of evidence that supports the use of naturopathic medicine in taking care of children. But, more high-quality research is needed to further confirm these findings and guide how NDs provide care. NDs are committed to providing care that’s based on evidence, and to continuing to build the evidence for naturopathic medicine.

NDs also stand up for their patients in the larger healthcare system. They work to make sure their patients can get the care they need and make informed decisions about their health. This advocacy work is an important part of the naturopathic profession’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of children.

Ayurveda vs Naturopathy

Ayurveda and naturopathy are both holistic approaches to healthcare, but they have different focuses and methods.

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that focuses on balancing the three doshas (vital energies) in the body. It uses a combination of diet, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, and meditation to promote health and treat diseases. Ayurveda treatments usually include many purification and detoxifying processes1. The principle of Ayurveda is founded on the interconnection with the universe and the body’s composition or Prakriti. (Difference Between Ayurveda and Naturopathy, 2023)

On the other hand, naturopathy is a modern system that emphasizes the body’s ability to heal itself through natural means. Naturopathy adopts measures like natural therapies, nutrition, and acupuncture to promote the self-healing power of the body. The core principles of naturopathy are living and sustaining closer to nature. (Difference Between Ayurveda and Naturopathy, 2023)

The choice between Ayurveda and naturopathy often depends on the individual’s specific health needs and personal preferences. Some people might prefer the traditional and spiritual aspects of Ayurveda, while others might be drawn to the self-healing emphasis of naturopathy. It’s always a good idea to discuss these options with a healthcare provider to determine which approach might be the best fit for you. Remember, these practices should complement, not replace, conventional medical care. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any health concerns.

Here are some examples:

1. Ayurveda: Ayurveda might be beneficial for someone dealing with chronic stress or anxiety. Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on mental and spiritual balance, so practices like meditation, yoga, and dietary changes might be recommended. For example, someone with high levels of the “Vata” dosha (one of the three energies believed to circulate in the body and govern physiological activity, according to Ayurveda) might experience issues like anxiety and insomnia. An Ayurvedic practitioner might recommend a Vata-pacifying diet, which includes warm, cooked, nourishing foods and calming practices like meditation and gentle yoga.
2. Naturopathy: Naturopathy might be a good fit for someone dealing with a chronic condition like arthritis or digestive issues. A naturopathic doctor would look at all aspects of the patient’s health, including diet, lifestyle, and emotional well-being. They might recommend dietary changes, herbal supplements, and physical therapies like massage or hydrotherapy. For example, for a patient with arthritis, a naturopathic doctor might suggest an anti-inflammatory diet, certain herbal supplements to ease joint pain, and regular gentle exercise to maintain joint flexibility.

Remember, whether Ayurveda or naturopathy is suitable for a patient depends on the individual’s specific health needs and personal preferences. It’s always a good idea to discuss these options with a healthcare provider to determine which approach might be the best fit. These practices should complement, not replace, conventional medical care. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any health concerns.

Conclusion

Allopathic medicine, also known as modern or Western medicine, plays a crucial role in healthcare. It is the system of medicine that is most commonly practiced in the world today. Allopathic medicine is particularly effective in treating acute conditions and emergencies. It uses scientifically tested methods to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases. This can include the use of drugs, surgery, and other forms of intervention to treat or prevent disease.

Allopathic medicine has made significant contributions to global health. It has led to increased life expectancy, reduced child mortality, and the eradication or control of many infectious diseases. It is particularly effective in the management of acute and life-threatening conditions, where its evidence-based, problem-focused approach can save lives.

In allopathic medicine, diseases are defined primarily in terms of biological causes, and treatment typically involves targeted interventions to address these causes. This can include the use of pharmaceutical drugs, surgical procedures, and other medical interventions.

In conclusion, both Ayurveda and Naturopathy offer a holistic approach to health and wellness, focusing on the whole person rather than just the symptoms of disease. They emphasize the use of natural modalities and lifestyle changes to promote wellness and treat illness. As complementary therapies, they can be used alongside conventional medical treatments to support the body’s healing processes. However, it’s important to consult with healthcare providers before starting any new treatment regimen.

Patient Testimonials

Khadiza Adnin, a resident of Dallas, Texas, had been suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis for several years. The pain was so severe that it made her life miserable and she was unable to get out of bed in the morning without the aid of high-power painkillers. She had lost hope of living a normal life until she started treatment with Dr. Hoque.

Dr. Haque, described by Khadiza as a nice and friendly person, provided a treatment that was not only physically healing but also mentally supportive. His approach to patient care had a profound impact on Khadiza’s life. After starting the treatment, she experienced a significant change in her condition. She no longer needed to rely on painkillers and felt much better than before.

The treatment provided by Dr. Haque was convenient and effective, leading Khadiza to describe it as a miracle. For Khadiza and her family, Dr. Hoque is not just a doctor, but a blessing. This case study serves as a testament to the transformative power of comprehensive and empathetic healthcare in managing chronic conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis.

She wrote:

“This is a life changing experience. Dr. Hoque is really a nice and friendly person. The way he treated his patient it’s not only help them to heal physically but also mentally. I have never thought that I will be able to live a normal life. For last couple of year I was suffering from Rhematoid Arthritis pain, which made my life miserable, I was not able to get up from the bed in the morning. I had to take high power pain killer to get out of the bed. But when I started my treatment from Dr Haque , it totally changes my life. Right now I did not have to take any pain killer, I feel much more better then before. His treatment is convenient and effective. If you want to see miracle go and see Dr Hoque. For us he is not only a Dr. he is the blessing of lord.”

• Khadiza Adnin, Dallas, TX, Patient, 2021

Kazim Syed Moosa, a patient in 2021, had been struggling with autoimmune diseases, eczema and psoriasis, for over a decade. His condition had a significant impact on his life, causing discomfort and affecting his lifestyle. Seeking a solution, he turned to Dr. Haque and the team at the Holistic Life Clinic.

Dr. Haque’s approach to treatment was holistic and natural, focusing on lifestyle changes and natural remedies. His recommendations led to a positive transformation in Kazim’s lifestyle, setting him on the path to recovery. Within just three weeks of starting the treatment, Kazim saw drastic improvements in his condition. His eczema and psoriasis, which had plagued him for a decade, showed significant improvement.

Kazim’s experience with Dr. Haque and the Holistic Life Clinic was so positive that he highly recommends them to others. He believes that Dr. Haque’s approach can benefit everyone, not just those suffering from autoimmune diseases. He is grateful to Dr. Haque and his team for their help and for giving him back control over his body and life.

This case study serves as a testament to the effectiveness of holistic and natural approaches in treating chronic conditions like autoimmune diseases. It underscores the importance of personalized care and lifestyle changes in managing complex health issues.

He wrote:

“I would highly recommend Dr. Haque to take back control of your body and life. His recommendations made a positive change in my life-style, and I am on my way of recovery. Within 3 weeks from decade long autoimmune disease eczema and psoraisis. I have seen drastic results, and with his holistic & natural approach, I can easily say that everyone can benefit. Thank you Dr. Haque and the Holistic Life Clinic team!”

• Kazim Syed Moosa, Patient, 2021

References

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