The word 'Naturopathy' means the study of nature or 'nature cure' and is both a way of life and a concept of healing employing various natural means of preventing and treating human disease.

Naturopathic medicine and philosophy is based on the principle that given the correct environment, the body has the ability to heal itself. Naturopathic medicine is 'vitalistic' in its approach, that is - life is viewed as more than just a sum of biological processes, and that the body is believed to have an innate intelligence that is always striving for health.

Although the term 'naturopathy' was not used until the late 19th century, its philosophical roots can be traced back to Hippocrates. It is a system of health-orientated medicine that stresses maintenance of health and prevention of disease. The individual is treated holistically or in other words - the whole person is treated. Physical, emotional, environmental and spiritual factors are all taken into consideration rather than just treating and alleviating signs and symptoms. In fact signs and symptoms are seen as the body's way of expressing the 'dis'-ease and are most important in the formation of a treatment plan. Therefore, Naturopaths avoid suppressing symptoms as they are seen as expressions of the body attempting to heal itself. Instead, the underlying cause is investigated and treated. The direction of healing is from the inside to the outside.

Three important modalities practiced by a qualified Naturopath are Nutrition, Herbal Medicine and Homoeopathy. When choosing to seek the services of a Naturopath, ensure that they have recognized qualifications with a professional organization such as the Australian Natural Therapies Association or the National Herbalists Association of Australia. Eleanor at City Naturopath is a member of both these professional bodies.

In a recent study it was revealed that over 51% of Australians had sought help from alternative therapies. This would indicate that alternative/complementary therapies are gaining in recognition and acceptance and that there is a very real demand within the community to be given the choice of health care. As we move into the 21st century, more and more medical doctors are working with naturopaths to offer a integrated approach to health for their patients.

The primary focus of Eleanor at City Naturopath is to encourage the clients to take responsibility for their own health and to incorporate natural alternative therapies in their lifestyle to restore and maintain optimal health.