Naturopathic physicians are primary care doctors who treat patients using natural remedies and practices.

Most naturopaths work as primary care physicians. They treat infants, children, and adults. Naturopathic medicine emphasizes prevention and treatment through education and the use of natural remedies.

Naturopaths ask patients questions to learn more about their condition and medical history. They examine patients and, if necessary, order lab tests. They explain test results and review treatment options with patients and their families. If more than one treatment is available, they help patients decide which option to choose.

Treatments used by naturopaths include:

• Nutritional counseling
• Herbs
• Homeopathic medicine (small amounts of natural substances)
• Hydrotherapy
• Ayurvedic medicine
• Electrotherapy
• Physical or manual therapy (manipulating a patient’s body to promote healing)
• Antibiotics

Naturopaths perform minor surgical procedures such as removing warts, moles, cysts, and sampling for skin cancers or lipomas. They can also apply or remove stitches.

Naturopaths may recommend counseling for their patients. This is because this type of medicine considers the link between behavior, emotions, and physical health.

Naturopaths refer some patients to other health care professionals for specialized medical tests and treatments. They may consult with other physicians to help make a diagnosis.