The Evolution of Naturopathic Medicine: A Journey Rooted in Natural Healing
- Bradley Bush, ND
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Naturopathic medicine has a rich and fascinating history that reflects the evolving relationship between natural therapies, modern science, and healthcare systems. Today, it is a growing field with a renewed presence in many states and territories, but its journey has been anything but linear.
The Early Rise of Naturopathic Medicine
At the turn of the 20th century, naturopathic medicine flourished across the United States. Influenced by European "Nature Cure" practices, American naturopaths embraced a philosophy centered on supporting the body’s inherent ability to heal through natural therapies. During this early period, dozens of accredited naturopathic medical schools operated throughout the country, and naturopaths enjoyed strong public and professional support.
However, with the rise of pharmaceutical medicine and the publication of the Flexner Report in 1910, which led to the reorganization of medical education, many naturopathic schools closed. Over time, the field contracted dramatically, leaving only a single naturopathic school standing: the National College of Naturopathic Medicine (NCNM), founded in 1956 in Portland, Oregon (now known as National University of Natural Medicine, or NUNM).
The Modern Resurgence of Naturopathic Medicine
Despite earlier setbacks, the past few decades have seen a resurgence of interest in holistic, preventive care, leading to the rebirth of naturopathic education. Today, there are multiple accredited naturopathic medical schools across the United States and Canada, training doctors with rigorous four-year medical programs that include both conventional medical sciences and extensive training in natural therapeutics.
These schools are accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME), ensuring high academic and clinical standards. Graduates earn a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) degree and sit for the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination (NPLEX) to obtain licensure in regulated states and provinces.
The Naturopathic Oath: A Commitment to Natural and Holistic Care
At the heart of naturopathic medicine is the Naturopathic Oath, which each graduating ND takes as a pledge to uphold the profession's highest principles. It emphasizes:
First Do No Harm – Use the least force necessary to diagnose and treat.
The Healing Power of Nature – Trust in the body's inherent ability to heal itself.
Doctor as Teacher – Educate patients and encourage self-responsibility for health.
Treat the Whole Person – Consider all factors: physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, and social.
Prevention – Focus on proactive strategies to prevent disease before it arises.
This oath reflects the core philosophy that naturopathic doctors hold: to honor the wisdom of nature while applying modern medical knowledge responsibly and ethically.
Current States and Territories with Naturopathic Licensure
Today, many states and territories regulate naturopathic medicine, but the scope of practice varies significantly. Some states grant naturopaths full primary care authority, including prescribing rights, while others provide limited recognition or registration without prescriptive authority.
Here’s a current list of jurisdictions with naturopathic licensing laws and links to each state's association.
ciation.
State/Territory | Association Link |
Alaska | |
Arizona | |
California | |
Colorado | |
Connecticut | |
District of Columbia | |
Hawaii | |
Idaho | |
Kansas | |
Maine | |
Maryland | |
Massachusetts | |
Minnesota | |
Montana | |
New Hampshire | |
North Dakota | North Dakota Association of Naturopathic Doctors |
Oregon | |
Pennsylvania | |
Puerto Rico | |
Rhode Island | |
Utah | Utah Naturopathic Physicians Association |
Vermont | |
Washington | |
U.S. Virgin Islands | (Regulated but limited online presence) |
You can also find a national resource through the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP): AANP Website.
Key Differences in State Laws
✔ Primary Care Status: States like Oregon, Arizona, Vermont, and Washington allow NDs to practice as primary care physicians with full prescribing rights.
✔ Limited Scope States: In states like Minnesota and Massachusetts, NDs are licensed but without full prescriptive authority.
✔ Registration-Only States: Some states offer registration without any scope of practice or insurance reimbursement, limiting practice rights significantly.
✔ No Licensure States: In states without laws, anyone may call themselves a "naturopath," but graduates of accredited naturopathic medical schools still distinguish themselves as trained Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) with the educational and clinical background to support evidence-based, holistic care.
Conclusion: The Bright Future of Naturopathic Medicine
Today, naturopathic medicine stands at a critical intersection of tradition and innovation. With a renewed emphasis on natural healing, scientific validation, and individualized care, naturopathic doctors are uniquely positioned to meet the growing demand for holistic, preventative healthcare. As more states recognize the value of naturopathic medicine and update their laws, the vision of accessible, natural, patient-centered healthcare continues to expand across North America.
If you're interested in learning more about naturopathic medicine or connecting with a licensed ND, visit AANP or your local state association!
If you are interested in receiving naturopathic care, Natural Medicine of Stillwater offers the natural and holistic approach to health you’re looking for. We have two NDs and an Integrative Medical Doctor (MD) on staff to help meet your preventive healthcare needs as well as identify the root cause of current health concerns. Contact us to get started.
