Naturopathy Is Natures's Medicine

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Naturopathy Is Natures's Medicine - By: Shaun Parker, Posted on: 2008-03-19

Naturopathy is one of the oldest forms medicines; as old as mankind in many ways. Our ancestors made use of the natural resources around them to treat illness and maintain good health. Naturopathy has developed over the years to treat conditions and ailments in the body while promoting good health and well-being. Using natural medicine and techniques that work with our body, a practitioner can restore health, aid our natural healing process and flush out toxins that cause disease.

One method a naturopath will use is herbal medicine and there are a number of remedies and essences at their disposal. Aloe Vera has been used for thousands of years and is an extremely powerful herb. It can be used for inflammation and to treat wounds and burns as well as fighting off bacteria. Echinacea has long been considered a powerful herb for boosting the body's immune system. Native to North America, Echinacea is a flower and is commonly used to fend off cold and flu symptoms. Gingko Biloba originates from China and the herb is said to improve circulation, particularly to the brain where the nutrients and oxygen in the blood are needed most.

Naturopathy also promotes good health through the nutritional value found in food. The correct diet can pay dividends in fighting of infections, viruses and disease and help boost our energy levels. A good diet will include whole wheat, lean protein and fruit and vegetables. If you want a general detox, fruit juice and fruit cleanses the blood and any vegetables or fruit are best eaten raw where possible (salads are a good option). Try to avoid meat and dairy products for at least a week though.

Hydrotherapy is commonly used by naturopaths to help with acute and chronic conditions both internally and externally. In fact, water therapy was one of the first therapies adopted by naturopathy after its effects were noted on sick animals. Hydrotherapy may take the form of baths, sprays or packs used for compression. Physical therapies are applied by naturopathic practitioners to correct any abnormalities in posture or joint movement that can be the underlying cause of disease elsewhere. This can take the form of chiropractic techniques or physical manipulations to the joints and muscles.

Fasting is another technique used in naturopathy. Abstaining from food gives the organs a chance to rest from the constant action of having to digest and process food. When we eat, the body uses a large amount of energy so by fasting, this saved energy can be utilised elsewhere for healing. Fasting also prevents further toxins entering the body and can also give the liver a chance to fully expel current present toxins in the body without the need to deal with new ones.

Fasting should be closely monitored and only carried out under the direction of a trained naturopath but it will generally last for two to three days. During this period, the first day will burn glycogen stores in the body and then move on to burn fat. On the second day, some muscle tissue is broken down into amino acids which the liver converts into glucose to enable the brain to be fed with essential sugars. On the third day, the liver produces ketones, a chemical used by the heart, brain and muscles as energy and this is the point where the majority of people feel a rush of energy.

Naturopathy is an adaptable therapy and can help to treat a variety of conditions through various methods and techniques. Visit a local practitioner and ask about what naturopathy can do for you.

Article Source: http://www.girlarticles.com

Shaun Parker is an expert on therapy and alternative medicine. He helps people that are looking for naturopathy find naturopaths near them.