Homeopathy vs Naturopathy

Many people think that Homeopathy and Naturopathy are one and the same thing. Naturopathy is a 'broad spectrum' descriptor where practitioners use a multiple treatment approach including herbs, supplements and dietary adjustments which provides the supportive framework for recovery. Homeopathy however is a single system of medicine in which practitioners focus totally on the application of homeopathic medicines and offers a specific treatment for each patient's illness.

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Naturopathy is an umbrella term for many natural therapies. The origin of Naturopathy is in 'nature cures' when fasting and eating raw whole foods was practiced, and over time, other therapeutic disciplines were added to become what is now known as Naturopathy. Naturopaths are often considered the 'General Practitioners' of natural therapies. Treatment is likely to include dietary advice, vitamins, minerals and herbal medicines. The Naturopathic philosophy is based on providing an environment which supports the recovery from illness.

Homeopathy is a scientific system of medicine which grew out of 18th century orthodox medicine. The unique characteristic of Homeopathy is the specific selection of a medicine to match with the patients symptoms according to specialised homeopathic case taking. Diet and lifestyle is also considered, but it is the prescribed, homeopathic medicine which is used to directly treat a patient's condition. The Homeopathic philosophy is based on the law of similars - what a substance can cause, it can cure. Homeopathy uses highly diluted, non toxic medicines made from various substances, many of which are herbs.