Restoring health with naturopathy

If your condition is due to a build-up of waste products, treatment may include fasting and other detoxifying measures. Nutritional supplements and dietary changes may be suggested if your digestion is poor and your constitution needs strengthening. You'll probably also receive advice about breathing patterns, exercise and relaxation. Naturopaths also tend to be multi-skilled so treatment will generally include other complementary therapies such as herbal medicine, acupuncture and counselling.

Hydrotherapy is an important naturopathic treatment to improve circulation, oxygenate and decongest tissues, and flush waste products from the body. Traditionally it involves hot and cold baths, steam rooms and compresses, but whirlpools and water jets are now included. Cold water constricts surface blood vessels, sending blood to nourish internal organs, and relieves external inflammation. Hot water dilates surface blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and increasing blood flow to the skin.

What is it good for?
Naturopathy claims to treat a wide range of disorders but it is said to be particularly effective for recurrent infections, chronic conditions like asthma and arthritis, gastrointestinal problems, skin conditions, premenstrual syndrome, high blood pressure, depression and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Medical research increasingly supports the benefits of a low fat diet rich in wholefoods, fruit and vegetables, as well as other naturopathic advice about exercise, relaxation and stress management.

What to watch out for
Do not fast or follow a restricted diet without the supervision of a qualified naturopath.

How much does it cost?
The first consultation is usually 40-60 minutes. Expect to pay from £25-£60 plus for this, depending on where you live. Subsequent consultations are around 20-30 minutes and just over half the price of the initial one.

How can I find it?
General Council and Register of Naturopaths
Maintains a register of practitioners with accredited training
Goswell House, 2 Goswell Road, Street, Somerset BA16 0JG
Tel 01458 840072
www.naturopathy.org.uk

read more:  previous | 1 |  2 | printer friendly send to a friend