What Is Naturopathy?

Naturopathy, often referred to as naturopathic medicine, is a system of health care that developed from a blend of traditional healing methods and medical practices that were widely used in Europe during the 1800s.

This approach focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of illness rather than only managing symptoms. Practitioners believe that symptoms are signals from the body indicating imbalance. Naturopathic care emphasizes whole-person healing and commonly includes guidance on physical activity, nutritious eating, and techniques to manage stress.

Individuals seek naturopathic services for many reasons, such as primary care, improving general wellness, or support in managing specific conditions. In the United States, naturopathy is practiced by licensed naturopathic physicians, traditional naturopaths, and some conventional providers who incorporate naturopathic methods into their services.

The number of practitioners has grown significantly over the past two decades. From about 2,000 licensed professionals in North America in 2000, the field expanded to roughly 5,000 licensed naturopathic physicians in the United States and more than 2,000 in Canada by 2016. National survey data indicate that 0.2 percent of U.S. adults used naturopathy in 2002, compared with 1.3 percent in 2022.

What Are the Different Types of Naturopathic Practitioners?

There are three primary categories of naturopathic practitioners:

• Licensed naturopathic physicians complete graduate-level training at naturopathic medical schools accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education.

• Traditional naturopaths, sometimes called simply “naturopaths,” may study through non-accredited programs that vary in length and curriculum. They are not eligible for state licensure.

• Other health care professionals may integrate naturopathic-style therapies into their practice. For example, chiropractors may provide nutritional counseling, exercise plans, and stress-management advice, and medical doctors may pursue board certification in integrative medicine.

What Is a Naturopathic Physician?

A naturopathic physician holds the degree of Doctor of Naturopathy (N.D.) or Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.M.D.).

These physicians typically complete a four-year, graduate-level program at an accredited naturopathic medical school in North America. The accrediting body for these schools was founded in 1978.

Licensing standards differ by state and territory. Where licensure is required, candidates must graduate from an accredited four-year program and pass national board examinations. They must also meet ongoing continuing education requirements set by their state.

Licensed naturopathic physicians are trained to evaluate patients through medical histories, physical examinations, laboratory testing, and diagnostic imaging. They can diagnose and treat medical conditions, which distinguishes them from traditional naturopaths. However, the specific scope of practice depends on state laws and regulations.

What Do Naturopathic Practitioners Do?

Naturopathic practitioners rely on a wide range of therapeutic strategies. These may include:

• Nutrition and lifestyle modification

• Stress-management techniques

• Herbal medicine and dietary supplements

• Homeopathic remedies

• Manual or manipulative therapies

• Prescribed exercise programs

• Supervised detoxification approaches

• Counseling and psychotherapy

Depending on a patient’s needs, practitioners may also collaborate with or refer to conventional medical providers.

More To Consider

• Keep in mind that having a license, certificate, or credential does not automatically ensure that any treatment—conventional or complementary—is safe or effective.

• Take an active role in your health care. Inform all of your providers about the therapies and supplements you use so that you can make coordinated, informed decisions together.

For More Information

NCCIH Clearinghouse

The NCCIH Clearinghouse offers information about complementary and integrative health practices, along with publications and access to Federal scientific and medical literature resources. The Clearinghouse does not provide medical advice, treatment recommendations, or referrals.

Toll-free (U.S.): 1-888-644-6226

Telecommunications relay service (TRS): 7-1-1

Website: nccih.nih.gov

Email: [email protected]

Know the Science

NCCIH and the National Institutes of Health provide educational tools to help the public understand research terminology and basic scientific concepts. These resources include interactive modules, videos, and practical guides designed to support informed health decisions.

Topics include explanations of how research works, how to read scientific journal articles, and how to understand clinical studies.

PubMed®

PubMed®, a service of the National Library of Medicine, offers access to citations and summaries from scientific and medical journals. It is a key resource for locating research on complementary and integrative health practices.

Website: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Key References

• American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the Institute for Natural Medicine. Frequently Asked Questions. Accessed February 3, 2025.

• American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. Scope of Practice by State: A Resource for the Public and Patients. Accessed February 13, 2025.

• American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. What Is a Naturopathic Doctor? Accessed February 27, 2025.

• Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges. The Difference Between a Licensed Naturopathic Doctor and a Traditional Naturopath in North America. Accessed March 10, 2025.

• Clugston RM, Goldblatt E, Rosenthal B, et al. Clinicians’ & Educators’ Desk Reference on the Integrative Health & Medicine Professions. 3rd ed. 2017.

• Dewangan S, Kumar BB. The relevance of naturopathy as a therapeutic tool in the modern era: a narrative review. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. 2024;30(4):38-41.

• Drake DF, Norman DK. Whole medical systems in the rehabilitation setting. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics of North America. 2020;31(4):553-561.

• Nahin RL, Rhee A, Stussman B. Use of complementary health approaches overall and for pain management by U.S. adults. JAMA. 2024;331(7):613-615.

This publication is in the public domain and may be freely reproduced.

This material is provided for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your health care provider regarding decisions about treatment or care. Mention of specific services or therapies does not constitute endorsement.