The Perspective of Medical Doctors on ND Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine

Natural medicine has gained increasing recognition as an effective alternative to traditional pharmaceutical interventions. This recognition is backed by numerous studies that demonstrate the therapeutic benefits of natural compounds. For example, elderberries have been shown to be effective in combating viral infections. According to Good Medicine by Holford, an extract of elderberries disarms viruses by binding to them and preventing their penetration of the cell membrane, leading to significant improvement in symptoms such as fever, cough, and muscle pain in patients within 24 hours. This observation highlights the potential of natural medicine in treating diseases without the adverse side effects often associated with conventional medications.

The use of natural medicine is not new; it has been trusted by our ancestors for thousands of years. While modern medications can offer fast and effective relief, synthetic drugs might come with a myriad of adverse reactions without addressing the root causes of illness. Therefore, naturopathic doctors are justified in referring to themselves as doctors, as they focus on treating the underlying causes of health issues rather than just alleviating symptoms.

Evidence-Based Medicine vs. Alternative Therapies

Medical treatments are often categorized into evidence-based medicine (EBM) and alternative therapies. EBM refers to treatments that have demonstrated efficacy and safety through repeatable, robust, blinded clinical trials with adequate sample sizes and peer review. Such treatments form the backbone of modern medical practice. On the other hand, most alternative therapies, while potentially beneficial, lack the rigorous scientific evidence required to become EBM.

Naturopathy falls broadly into the non-EBM category. This means that while naturopathic doctors might have pursued extensive education, their treatments are often considered unproven and should not be equated with those of medical doctors (MDs) who have gone through rigorous training and have standardized treatments based on scientific evidence.

The Divided Perspectives Among Medical Doctors

The views of medical doctors on naturopathic doctors (NDs) vary widely. Some medical doctors are open to considering licensed NDs as colleagues and enjoy strong referral relationships with them. This is especially true for those who have undergone functional medicine training, as functional medicine has its roots in naturopathic principles. These doctors view NDs as valuable contributors to patient care, recognizing their expertise in addressing the complex, multifaceted nature of health issues.

However, there are still some medical doctors who lack understanding or appreciation for NDs. This often stems from conflating licensed NDs, who graduate from accredited programs and sit for a national licensing exam, with unlicensed NDs. The distinction between the two is crucial, as it highlights the difference between legitimate, scientifically validated practices and unproven remedies.

In conclusion, while the relationship between medical doctors and naturopathic doctors is complex and varies, there is a growing recognition of the value of naturopathic medicine. As long as treatments can provide evidence of safety and efficacy, patients should be encouraged to explore all available options in their journey to better health.