Exploring the Benefits of Naturopathy in New Zealand

If you’re looking for a natural healing approach to health and wellbeing, then naturopathy services in New Zealand may provide the answer. Naturopathy is becoming increasingly popular in both New Zealand and worldwide as people look beyond medications, treatments, and surgeries to find deeper health remedies. Here we take a look at what naturopathy is, the various treatments available and how to find a naturopath who’s right for you.

What is Naturopathy?

Naturopathy, or naturopathic medicine, is an alternative medical system that emphasizes natural remedies and the body’s intrinsic ability to heal itself. It combines modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine. Naturopaths use a wide range of therapies such as herbal medicine, nutrition counselling, lifestyle interventions, stress management techniques, hydrotherapy, vitamin supplements and other physical therapies. Naturopaths take into account all aspects of an individual’s life when making diagnoses and providing treatments which sets them apart from conventional doctors who tend to focus on one area at a time.

Naturopathic Treatments Available in New Zealand

There are numerous types of naturopathic treatments available in New Zealand, some of the most popular being:

• Herbal Medicine: Herbal medicines are plant-based products used for their medicinal properties. They can be taken orally or applied topically as lotions or ointments.
• Nutrition Counseling: Nutrition counseling involves a licensed professional evaluating your dietary habits and making recommendations on changes or additions that should be made to improve your health.
• Stress Management Techniques: Stress management techniques involve managing thought processes that contribute to stress levels such as negative self-talk or lack of focus; relaxation practices such as yoga or meditation; and learning how to create healthy boundaries.
• Vitamin Supplements: Vitamin supplements are substances taken orally in order to increase the body’s intake of essential vitamins necessary for the maintenance of good health.

Other treatments commonly offered by naturopaths in New Zealand include homeopathy, acupuncture, massage therapy and manual lymphatic drainage.

Choosing a Naturopathic Practitioner in New Zealand

When selecting a naturopathic practitioner it is important to make sure they have experience and qualifications specific to their field. The best way to do this is by asking questions during your initial consultation noting any areas they feel confident discussing versus those they seem unsure about talking about; seeking out testimonials from previous patients; conducting internet research; as well as speaking with friends/family/colleagues who have had experience working with a particular practitioner. Also keep in mind that you do not need a referral from another health care practitioner before booking an appointment with a naturopath – however if you are unsure always double check with your GP first.

Is Naturopathy Regulated in New Zealand?

Unfortunately, naturopathy is not regulated in New Zealand as it’s seen more as a complementary form of therapy than a standalone medical practice. This means it’s important to exercise due diligence when choosing a practitioner.

How Much Does Naturopathy Cost in New Zealand?

The rates for naturopaths vary drastically depending on experience and other factors such as location. However, generally speaking a qualified naturopath will cost between $100-200 per hour depending on the services they offer, follow up sessions are generally cheaper as well as many practitioners offering package deals to save on multiple sessions.

Is Naturopathy a Real Degree?

Some naturopaths do obtain degrees in the field while others learn through apprenticeship working under experienced practitioners. As the profession isn’t regulated in New Zealand it’s important to check someone’s qualifications before booking an appointment with them.

What Does a Naturopath Do?

A qualified naturopath will sit down with you and discuss your health history and goals before formulating a unique plan tailored specifically to your needs. They will ask questions about what symptoms or ailments you are currently experiencing before running tests that allow them to identify possible causes of disharmony within the body. Based on these results they will create a plan that involves dietary changes, advice on lifestyle habits and exercises as well as supplements or herbal remedies if necessary all designed to get you back into optimal health balance without relying on drugs or surgery.

Can Naturopaths Write Prescriptions?

No – unfortunately due to the fact that naturopathy isn’t regulated in New Zealand they are unable to write prescriptions like medical doctors can do however they can still provide advice on certain medications or treatments if needed after consultation with your GP or other medical professional.

Do Naturopaths Use Medicine?

As naturopaths cannot prescribe in New Zealand they don’t use conventional medicine however naturopaths often use herbal remedies and dietary supplements depending on what best suits the patient’s needs at hand.

What Are The Side Effects Of Naturopathy?

Generally speaking most side effects associated with naturopathic treatments are mild however there are potential risks involved that must be discussed prior by both the patient and practitioner including allergic reactions or interactions between certain medications or herbs being taken at the same time as well as incorrect dosages prescribed leading to worsening of symptoms instead of improvement so always follow instructions given by your practitioner carefully!

What Are The Benefits Of Seeing A Naturopath?

Naturopathy provides many potential benefits for long-term health and wellbeing. Naturopaths take the time to get to know their clients in order to find out what’s best suited to them as an individual. This individualised approach helps identify any underlying causes for an illness or condition that may not be obvious through traditional medical diagnosis alone.

Naturopathic treatments often involve lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise; this has the benefit of helping you build good habits for long-term health rather than just masking symptoms with medication or supplements. Additionally, naturopathic treatments are generally non-invasive and low risk compared to drugs or surgery; this makes them suitable for people who prefer to avoid aggressive treatments or medication side effects.

Can A Naturopath Diagnose?

In New Zealand, it is illegal for naturopaths to diagnose any medical conditions. However they can work alongside medical professionals like your doctor if necessary to provide supportive treatment which can be beneficial in managing certain chronic health issues without needing an official diagnosis. Some naturopathic treatments used by practitioners may even be recommended by your doctor such as dietary advice or nutritional supplementation when appropriate; so it’s worth discussing with your GP if you’d like to explore these options further before seeing someone privately.

Are There Any Limitations To Seeing A Naturopath?

Whilst visiting a qualified naturopath can provide helpful insights into your health concerns; it’s important to remember that they cannot replace your primary care provider such as your GP for serious illnesses where more intense medical intervention may be necessary for successful treatment outcome – so always check with your doctor first if you have any concerns about a particular health issue before deciding whether visits with a naturopath might be something worth considering..

Conclusion

Naturopathy is an increasingly popular alternative medical system for individuals who desire natural healing solutions and numerous treatment options tailored specifically towards their needs. If you are considering seeking help from a naturopath its best practice to conduct thorough research first in order to choose someone with the right qualifications and experience before taking full advantage of their expertise.

If you’re looking for support with your health, nutrition and overall wellness; including supplementation, herbal medicine as well as techniques to manage stress and support mental health I am a qualified nutritionist and yoga teacher with a background in Psychology. Contact me today to book your free discovery call and talk about options for better wellbeing along with individualised plans tailored just for you!