an A-Z of alternative therapies

Naturopathy is more than just a therapy; it is a philosophy for living. It is based on the belief that the body has the ability to heal itself when free of the toxins that are accumulated through poor lifestyle habits. Naturopathy stimulates the body's natural defences and promotes an equilibrium that allows it to function properly and effectively.

Naturopaths believe four basic components make for good health:

• Clean air
• Clean water
• Clean food from good earth
• Exercise and healthy living

Naturopaths usually follow three main principals:

• The body has the power to heal itself so treatment should not be given to alleviate symptoms, but to support the healing power of nature.
• The symptoms of disease are not part of the disease itself, but a sign that the body is striving to eliminate toxins and return to its natural state of balance.
• All treatments should be holistic.

Your first visit to a practitioner may last up to an hour as he or she will want to build up a complete picture of your physical and emotional well-being. He will probably give you a routine medical examination, including tests on your blood pressure, lungs, heart, spinal joints and reflexes.

He may also arrange x-rays and blood and urine tests.

Further, he may carry out non-conventional tests such as examining your irises, analysing your sweat or hair or using kinesiology muscle tests.

Treatment falls into two main categories:

• Catabolic - cleansing
• Anabolic - strengthening

These treatments may include the use of water to promote healing, baths including spa, Turkish or sauna, hot and cold water sprays on specific areas of the body, hot or cold compresses, enemas colonic irrigation, diet and fasting, osteopathy, breathing and relaxation.

Symptoms may appear to worsen before they improve as the body tries to eliminate toxins and return to a homeostatic state.

The first session lasts about 1 hour.

Subsequent sessions last 20-40 minutes, depending on the condition or the therapist.

Treatment may go on for between 4 and 30 weekly sessions, depending on the severity of your condition and the length of time you have had it. Naturopaths aim to educate you so that new, good habits will prevent future illness and improve vitality. Some patients see their practitioners regularly, long after the original complaint has been resolved.

Because naturopathy is multi-disciplined, there is a therapy or course of treatment for everyone, and each program will be tailor made for the individual. Ensure that your therapist is trained and qualified.