Common Natural Medicine & Naturopathy Questions

Queen Anne’s Lace or wild carrot seed prevents implantation of egg by disrupting progesterone synthesis. Its seeds must be taken soon after unprotected intercourse for up to seven days. Cotton root bark when dried is an herb preventing pregnancy. Neem is a spermicidal herb that has been used since ancient times as a contraceptive. Pennyroyal is also a good option to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Black and Blue Cohosh herbs stimulate the release of oxytocin hormone resulting in contraction of uterine walls and preventing pregnancy. [1]

Textbook of Natural Medicine by Joseph E. Pizzorno & Michael T. Murray, The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal medicine. [2]

Naturopathic physicians graduate from four-year, doctoral-level medical programs. All AANMC member schools are both regionally and programmatically accredited by agencies recognized by the United States Department of Education, and faculty are leaders in their respective fields of study. Naturopathic medical education (NME) is the perfect balance of both standard foundational medical and biological sciences, and naturopathic diagnostic and therapeutic coursework. While core naturopathic coursework at all accredited programs prepares students to pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination (NPLEX). [3]

CCNM, established in 1978 in Toronto, is the largest naturopathic medical education provider and the leading research institution in North America. In 2021, the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in British Columbia merged with CCNM to establish the Toronto and Boucher campuses of the new Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). The CCNM - Toronto Campus offers the only Doctor of Naturopathy degree in Canada, a four-year, full-time program. [4]

The mission of the Naturopathic Medicine Committee (NMC) is to protect California health care consumers and expand access to safe and effective primary care by licensing and regulating Naturopathic Doctors through vigorous enforcement of the California Naturopathic Doctors Act. [5]

• Bastyr University Boucher
• Institute of Naturopathic Medicine
• Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine.
• National University of Health Sciences.
• National University of Natural Medicine.
• Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine & Health Sciences.
• Universidad Ana G. [6]

Clinical demand is high for licensed naturopathic physicians. NDs work in a variety of practice settings, including multi-practitioner, integrative medicine clinics, solo practitioner offices, concierge practices, and telemedicine. NDs serve as primary care providers with a general medicine practice (colds/flu, asthma, headaches, etc.), or they may decide to have a more specialized practice focusing on either a specific population or illness category, such as women’s or men’s health, sports medicine, pediatrics, oncology, etc. [8]

Naturopathic Medicine is a system that uses natural remedies to help the body heal itself. It embraces many therapies, including herbs, massage, acupuncture, exercise, and nutritional counseling. Some common examples of naturopathy include chiropractic adjustment, herbalism, and traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, meditation, yoga, biofeedback, homeopathy, acupuncture, diet-based therapies, and more. [11]

In order to become a licensed naturopathic doctor, one must first graduate from a four-year, professional-level program at a federally accredited naturopathic medical school. Upon graduation, you must take and pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exam (NPLEX). [12]

EBP can be adopted as a useful approach to assimilate scientific evidence in naturopathic practices. However, naturopaths need to reconcile tensions between traditional and scientific knowledge in their choice of treatment remedies, while adhering to the naturopathic principles of healing, to benefit the patients. [13]

What makes Naturopathic Medicine so effective is that the goal of natural treatments is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. Rather than simply medicating problems, naturopathic doctors examine your whole body, consider your mental health, and take your work and life stresses into consideration when coming up with a personal health plan. [16]

From a nutritional perspective, naturopathic doctors may supplement with the mineral selenium. Selenium is a trace mineral that helps decrease eczema symptoms, including inflammation. It prevents what is called oxidative stress due to its involvement with a specific enzyme in the body. [17]

In most states, naturopathic physician status is unprotected or unclear. Two states, Florida, and Nevada have repealed regulation of this profession. Nevada ceased licensing naturopathic physicians in 1987 (in Nevada naturopathic physicians were required to be supervised by medical doctors). Although naturopathic licensing in Florida was discontinued in 1959, there are still laws and a board regulating those naturopaths still practicing. Florida allows naturopathic physicians licensed prior to program termination dates to continue to practice. [19]

Apple cider vinegar has been used as a natural treatment for several disorders, such as indigestion, and it has also been used to help break down gallstones. Dandelion has been a longstanding liver cleansing agent, but it can also be effective in treating gallbladder and bile duct problems. The leaves are easily incorporated into salads, or dried and drank as a surprisingly soothing tea; the roots (dried, roasted, and ground) are particularly effective and delicious as a natural coffee. Acupuncture may also help alleviate back pain and nausea; two symptoms commonly associated with gallstones. [20]

Youthful yoga: With its full spectrum of poses, yoga can bring the body back into its natural alignment, restore our muscular imbalances, and correct physical weaknesses. For the athlete or cardio-junkie on your list, yoga can improve their performance by enhancing flexibility, relaxation, breathing, and balance. But anyone can improve posture, energy, and endurance with regular yoga practice. It also offers fabulous benefits for calming a stressed nervous system, restoring hormonal balance, and strengthening muscles. [22]

Glasgow’s Best Naturopathy:

The top-rated Naturopathy in Glasgow are:

Dr Gabriel Blass, Homeopathic Doctor – a registered member of the Society of Homeopaths.

Nurture Glasgow – a multi-disciplinary team of practitioner psychologists and complementary health specialists.

The Harvest Clinic – has a full range of complementary health treatments seven days a week.

Irene McCabe – offers high-quality supplements.

Biotherapy Glasgow – offers energy alignment sessions via video call. [23]

The goal of Naturopathic Medicine is to treat the whole person. Naturopathy comprises many different treatment modalities. The naturopathic physician uses gentle methods to boost the body’s vital ability to heal and maintain itself, including nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, proper diet, and exercise to restore health. The doctor works with the patient to educate him or her on ways to restore and maintain a healthy balance in the internal environment that will prevent further illness. [24]

The first step to understanding and treating any hormonal concern is understanding if the issue comes from a supply issue (lack of building blocks to make the hormones), a conversion issue (inability to activate/utilize them), or if there’s an absolute deficiency (in which case you much replace them). The goals of treatment include understanding the mechanism as to why the thyroid dysfunction is occurring, and implementing the proper diet, lifestyle, and supplement routine to correct the imbalance. Herbal medicine support production and conversion, with decreasing antibodies in Grave's/Hashimoto’s. Nutrient replacement provides the building blocks (like zinc, iodine, and selenium) to create hormones. Diet and Lifestyle eliminate food intolerances and promote healthy metabolism through diet. Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (Natural Desiccated Thyroid) when necessary. [29]

CCNM, established in 1978 in Toronto, is the largest naturopathic medical education provider and the leading research institution in North America. In 2021, the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in British Columbia merged with CCNM to establish the Toronto and Boucher campuses of the new Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). The CCNM - Toronto Campus offers the only Doctor of Naturopathy degree in Canada, a four-year, full-time program. At the CCNM - Boucher Campus in New Westminster, B.C. highlights the value of interpersonal relationships during the learning process. Classmates and instructors alike provide support to create a strong community for each student. [34]

Naturopathic Medicine is a system that uses natural remedies to help the body heal itself. It embraces many therapies, including herbs, massage, acupuncture, exercise, and nutritional counseling. Naturopathy was brought to the United States from Germany in the 1800s, but some of its treatments are centuries old. Naturopathic Doctors attend a four-year Naturopathic Medical School accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME). Naturopathic Doctors are required to take and pass two written national board exams called the NPLEX (Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination). [38]

Naturopathic Doctor Prime Source Testing Lancaster, CA, USA. Naturopathic Doctor (ND) the Camden Center Naturopathic Doctor Job in San Francisco, CA [42]

Naturopathic Doctor Greenhouse Natural Medicine Amherst, NH.

Naturopathic Doctor, Camden Center San Francisco, CA [45]

Kaiser Permanente provides options for members to access complementary and alternative care and manipulative therapy services, otherwise known as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). These services include acupuncture, naturopathy, massage therapy, and manipulative therapy services provided by chiropractors. Kaiser Permanente contracts with Tivity to manage our network of chiropractors, naturopaths, acupuncturists, and massage therapists. All contracted chiropractic and CAM providers meet Kaiser Permanente's credentialing standards and state or local licensing requirements. [48]

Naturopathy is a 100% natural treatment that aims to treat the root cause of the problem and not just the symptoms. Knee pain can be due to damaged ligament, muscle, or cartilage. There are certain naturopathic home remedies that you can try if you are experiencing excruciating pain in the knee. Cold treatment or ice therapy is highly recommended for treating knee pain. This treatment helps in compressing and to reduce the swelling. Cayenne pepper possesses a compound called capsaicin, which is regarded as an excellent painkiller. Turmeric is one of the most effective natural herbs to be added to your diet that can cause great pain and knee relief. Massing your knee gently with warm mustard oil can greatly help to minimize inflammation; increase blood way and ultimately, reduces pain. [49]

Most herbs have not been completely tested to see how well they work or to see if they interact with other herbs, supplements, medicines, or foods. Products added to herbal preparations may also cause interactions. Be aware that "natural" does not mean "safe."  Chamomile, Echinacea, Feverfew, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, ginseng, goldenseal, Milk Thistle, Saint John’s wort, Saw Palmetto, and Valerian. [55]

In response to “Naturopathy: A Critical Appraisal,” it is clear from the numerous cited official supporters of licensed Naturopathic Medicine (such as the White House Commission, The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, WebMD, the IntelliHealth Harvard Medical School venture, etc.) and by the ongoing passage of legislation for naturopathic physicians, that Naturopathic Medicine is indeed legitimate, effective, and wanted. [56]

States currently offering licensure or registration to naturopathic physicians:

Alaska

Arizona

California

Colorado

Connecticut

District of Columbia

Hawaii

Idaho

Kansas

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts (MA licensed ND doctors in 2017 and is currently working on the promulgation of rules and regulations. It is hoped that license applications will become available in early 2021).

Minnesota

Montana

New Hampshire

New Mexico

North Dakota

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

Utah

Vermont

Washington

Wisconsin

US Territories: Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands [57]

The modalities that are practiced by Naturopathic Doctors at Head to Heal are Nutrition, Homeopathic Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Physical Medicine (primarily Bowen Technique), and Lifestyle Counseling.[60]

The Center for Integrative Wellness provides naturopathic and functional medicine healthcare to Lansing, Michigan residents as well as nationwide via telehealth. Dr. Nicholas Morgan offers a safe, effective, affordable, and personalized Naturopathic Medicine approach that treats the whole person. He does not use a one-size-fits-all/cookie-cutter approach to wellness. He combines science-based approaches like nutrition, dietary intervention, herbal/botanical medicine, advanced testing, and lifestyle modifications with your conventional medicine for a truly functional medicine approach. [63]

Naturopathic Medicine is a system of healing that focuses on supporting and stimulating the body’s ability to heal itself. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) practice this form of medicine, which combines modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural therapies. They are trained in and use a wide variety of different therapies. In Canada, NDs go through a full-time, 4-year training program. Naturopathic Medicine is regulated in many Canadian provinces and territories. Some NDs have extra training, knowledge, and experience in cancer care. These doctors have the designation of Fellow to the American Board of Naturopathic Oncologists (FABNO). [69]

Currently, the following naturopathic medical programs have been approved:

Bastyr University (BU): Kenmore, Washington

Bastyr University California (BUC): San Diego, California\

Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine – Boucher (CCNM – Boucher), formerly Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine (BINM): New Westminster, British Columbia

Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine – Toronto (CCNM – Toronto): Toronto: Toronto, Ontario

National University of Health Sciences (NUHS): Lombard, Illinois

National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM): Portland, Oregon

Sonoran University of Health Sciences (SUHS), formerly Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine: Tempe, Arizona

Universidad Ana G. Mendez (UAGM), formerly Universidad del Turabo (UDT): Gurabo, Puerto Rico

University of Bridgeport – College of Naturopathic Medicine (UBCNM): Bridgeport, Connecticut, [70]

Principles

First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere).

The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae).

Identify and Treat the Causes (Tolle Causam).

Doctor As Teacher (Docere).

Treat the Whole Person (Tolle Totum)

Prevention (Preventare). [71]

NDs concentrates on whole-patient wellness through health promotion and disease prevention, while addressing the underlying cause of the patient’s condition. Naturopathic physicians care for patients of all ages and genders and practice in settings ranging from private clinics to integrative medical centers, urgent care clinics, and hospitals. NDs are clinicians, authors, scholars, researchers, and entrepreneurs, and are increasingly in demand across numerous industries. They provide individualized, evidence-informed therapies that balance the least harmful and most effective approaches in order to help facilitate the body’s inherent ability to restore and maintain optimal health. Naturopathic doctors are experts in natural medicine, and naturopathic medical education is the most efficient and direct way to train as a primary care doctor who specializes in natural medicine. [73]

The Philippine Institute of Naturopathic Sciences (PINS) is the new name of the school that started teaching Iridology 30 years ago. It was then named the Iridology Foundation of the Philippines (IFP) and it was the pioneer in the natural health revolution of the early eighties. It opened the eyes of many of our countrymen to the wonderful miracles that nature cure can bring using the eye as the focal point for analyzing the different body conditions. Many of the thousands of students of IFP developed to be responsible natural health practitioners and are now known as the leaders of alternative health care. [74]

Licensed naturopathic physicians attend four-year, doctoral-level programs. The first two years are predominantly the same biomedical sciences as allopathic and osteopathic physicians. The following two years hone clinical and diagnostic skills and prepare graduates to be competent naturopathic physicians. In evaluating candidates for naturopathic medical programs, admissions counselors look for students who want to be challenged academically yet feel comfortable relying on their own intuition and creativity. They look for high-level critical thinkers who are excited by the challenge of formulating individualized treatment plans. Applicants must demonstrate that they possess the internal qualities essential to becoming naturopathic physicians, including concern for others, integrity, curiosity, motivation, and a strong belief in the efficacy of natural medicine. [75]

Smoking cigarettes is one of the most difficult addictions to overcome, so it's only natural that you want to try anything that might help you quit. Many people try natural remedies, but not all of them are effective or safe. Acupuncture may be effective for helping people quit smoking. An acupuncturist will insert thin needles (that are about as thin as a strand of hair) into certain pressure points on the body. People receive acupuncture for various conditions such as chronic pain and migraines. [78]

“There is no medicine you can take that will replace what you can do for your own health.”

“I have every expectation that naturopathic doctors that recommend supplements will take over from expensive conventional healthcare that relies on costly pharmaceutical prescriptions.” [79]

In order to become a licensed naturopathic doctor, one must first graduate from a four-year, professional-level program at a federally accredited naturopathic medical school. Upon graduation, you must take and pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exam (NPLEX). This exam covers basic sciences, diagnostic and therapeutic subjects, and clinical sciences. [80]

“You know what they call alternative medicine that's been proved to work?

“A healer's power stems not from any special ability, but from maintaining the courage and awareness to embody and express the universal healing power that every human being naturally possesses.” Eric Michael Leventhal. [81]

Being a ‘doctor’ of naturopathy takes 4 years at a naturopathic school and apparently, it’s not illegal to call yourself a doctor because this title is not reserved for physicians. It is however illegal to say you went to medical school. That said, the Canadian naturopathic association website says the following: “Both are doctors, both provide primary care, and both are similarly trained.” [83]

A four-year bachelor's degree is required by all accredited naturopathic medical schools. Admission to SCNM requires prospective students to have completed the academic prerequisite coursework with a minimum GPA of 3.0 at a regionally accredited or candidate college or university prior to matriculation. [84]

Research is an essential aspect of any system of medicine. Research on naturopathy / Naturopathic Medicine is supported by a number of naturopathic research institutes and peer-reviewed journals.

“Naturopaths’ mobilization of knowledge and information in clinical practice: an international cross-sectional survey”

“Community education and health promotion activities of naturopaths/naturopathic doctors: results of an international cross-sectional survey”

“Overview of international naturopathic practice and patient characteristics: results from a cross-sectional study in 14 countries”. [85]

As part of the process of assisting in the transition from student to practicing physician, NUNM has established residency programs both locally and throughout the United States. These positions are designed to assist and guide new graduates in gaining a wide range of clinical experiences. Depending on the State licensure, the resident may gain experience and confidence by completing rotations in women’s health, physical medicine, IV therapy, minor surgery, primary care, as well as community medicine, and adjunctive care. In addition, a few teaching residencies will allow the resident to develop their own medical skills through mentoring, daily supervision, and engaging in ongoing clinical education at several accredited Naturopathic colleges and universities. [86]

Jenna Henderson, N.D. Like most naturopathic doctors, I was drawn to alternatives when I reached the limits of mainstream medicine.  In my situation it was extreme; I was already in kidney failure when I enrolled in naturopathic college.  By that time, I had seen the worst of mainstream medicine. From American Heart Association About 80% of people in the U.S. have low to moderate cardiovascular health based on the American Heart Association’s new Life’s Essential 8™ checklist according to a new study published today in Circulation, the Association’s flagship, peer-reviewed journal. [87]

The naturopathic medical research clinic

Nourished Minds - Healthy Lives

They are committed to helping you achieve optimal physical and mental health. Their approach involves specialized testing, diet and lifestyle modification, and a combination of nutritional health treatments that address individual needs. They create wellness and treat complex medical conditions. [88]

Naturopathic Medicine is a distinct primary health care profession that combines the wisdom of the body with the rigors of modern science. Naturopathic physicians are trained as primary care providers who diagnose, treat, and manage patients with acute and chronic conditions while addressing disease and dysfunction at the level of body, mind, and spirit.

They concentrate on whole-patient wellness through health promotion and disease prevention, attempting to find the underlying cause of the patient’s condition. Naturopathic physicians care for patients of all ages and genders. They provide individualized evidence-informed therapies that balance the least harmful and most effective approaches to help facilitate the body’s inherent ability to restore and maintain optimal health. [89]

Therapeutic applications of taurine. Altern Med Rev 3:128-136

Bugs as drugs, Part 1: Insects: the "new" alternative medicine for the 21st century?

Suppression of adrenal function by low-dose prednisone: Assessment with 24-hour urinary steroid hormone profiles - A review of five cases. [90]

The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine

For over 45 years, the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine – Toronto Campus has been educating naturopathic doctors. In fact, more than 20% of NDs practicing in North America are graduates of CCNM. We are the only naturopathic college in Canada approved to grant a Doctor of Naturopathy degree. [91]

College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia

CCNM, established in 1978 in Toronto, is the largest naturopathic medical education provider and the leading research institution in North America. In 2021, the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in British Columbia merged with CCNM to establish the Toronto and Boucher campuses of the new Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). The CCNM - Toronto Campus offers the only Doctor of Naturopathy degree in Canada, a four-year, full-time program. [93]

Bastyr University California knows that you want to be extraordinary. In order to do this, you need an exceptional education that integrates health, science, and nature. Recognized globally for its rigorous curriculum and leading-edge research, Bastyr University’s School of Naturopathic Medicine has been producing industry leaders who are changing the world for over 40 years. We also have a campus in Washington State, browse Bastyr University’s Kenmore, WA Campus page for more degree offerings available at that location. [94]

A licensed naturopathic physician (ND) attends a four-year, accredited, graduate-level naturopathic medical school and is educated in all of the same biomedical sciences as an MD. In addition to medical and clinical sciences, naturopathic education incorporates natural and nontoxic treatments with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and optimizing wellness. Naturopathic medical education incorporates a standard medical curriculum, and studies including clinical nutrition, physical medicine, homeopathic medicine, botanical medicine, psychology, and counseling. A naturopathic physician takes rigorous professional board exams so that they may be licensed by a state or jurisdiction as a primary care general practice physician. [95]

In Canada, the naturopathic medical profession includes accredited naturopathic medical programs, standardized North American Board Exams (NPLEX) and jurisdictional exams, national standards of practice, and regulations in five provinces to date.

Naturopathic doctors treat all medical conditions and can provide both individual and family health care. Among the most common ailments they treat are allergies, chronic pain, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and obesity. [96]

A few naturopathic treatments have known side effects and risks:

Supplements (vitamin and herbal): Some of these may interfere with prescription medications. In large doses, certain vitamins may raise your risk of a disease like cancer.

Spinal adjustments: As part of naturopathic manipulative treatment, your practitioner may apply pressure to your spine. This can damage arteries, nerves, bones, and spinal discs. In rare cases, it may lead to a stroke.

Detox diets: These treatments are meant to rid your body of toxins. They involve cutting out certain foods or fasting. That means going for periods without eating. This can be dangerous for people with some chronic conditions, like diabetes. If you’re on the diet for a long time, you run the risk of not getting enough vital nutrients. [97]

Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and Health Sciences is the premier medical school focusing on natural medicine. SCNM’s Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree program boasts the widest scope of practice. In addition to the 4-year ND program, SCNM offers two online Master’s Programs; Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition and Master of Science in Nutrition Business Leadership for those looking to earn a degree from a leading institution in holistic and scientific approaches to natural medicine. [100]

A holistic approach to healthcare that leverages the combined power of natural medicine and modern scientific research to heal and prevent common health concerns. It goes beyond temporary quick fixes and suppressing symptoms. Instead, Naturopathic Medicine strives to investigate and treat the cause of dysfunction and disease. 

Dr. Melissa Younano B.H.Sc., N.D. - 40 Baldwin St, Tillsonburg, ON Situated at 40 Baldwin St in Tillsonburg, Ontario, Dr. Melissa Younano B.H.Sc., N.D. is an enterprise within the chiropractor’s dc section of Canpages.ca online directory. Phone 519-688-7777 to do business with Dr. Melissa Younano B.H.Sc., N.D. that is near your area. [101]

Dr. Jess is qualified as a medical doctor, has 5 years NHS experience, and is registered, but no longer maintains her license to practice with the GMC. International students may study Online or, subject to visa status in class at any of our UK colleges.[105]

Daniel Reed Naturopath, NMD

Patients visit because they want innovative therapies including functional lab testing, IV therapy, regenerative injection therapy, bodywork, comprehensive exams and a blend of natural and conventional medical treatments. [106]

Top Schools for Alternative Medicine

Students in alternative medicine programs learn how to integrate the biological, psychological, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health and promote the body's capacity to heal itself. Some alternative medicine practices include acupuncture, herbal supplementation, and meditation.

Bastyr University

Students at Bastyr University, in Kenmore, Washington, can utilize the Bastyr University Research Institute. This facility helps students develop and increase their proficiency in the scientific study of natural medicine. Bastyr University is accredited by the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges and offers a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) program. The ND program includes clinical training at the university's Bastyr Center for Natural Health, the largest integrative healthcare facility in the region. 

Georgetown University

Another notable alternative medicine school is Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Georgetown offers a graduate-level Complementary and Alternative Medicine Program for prospective students. Georgetown ranked in the top 20 on U.S. News & World Report's list of best colleges for 2017. [108]

Naturopathy is a whole medical system. It views disease as a manifestation of alterations in the processes by which the body naturally heals itself and emphasizes health restoration rather than disease treatment. Naturopathic physicians employ an array of healing practices, including diet and clinical nutrition, homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine, hydrotherapy, spinal and soft-tissue manipulation, physical therapies involving electric currents, ultrasound, and light therapy, therapeutic counseling, and pharmacology. Today, naturopathy is practiced in a number of countries, including the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand. [110]

Each year, the Naturopathic Medicine community celebrates National Naturopathic Medicine week to help raise awareness, share resources and celebrate the medicine we all so strongly believe in. In previous years, the United States ND community recognized ND Week during the month of October, however, in 2021, the Naturopathic Medical Student Association (NMSA) changed to align Naturopathic Medicine Week with the Canadian ND schools which celebrates in May. Historically, each of the North American ND schools hosts a friendly competition on social media, with the shared goal of increasing public knowledge surrounding Naturopathic Medicine and its benefits. [111]