The concept of naturopathy treatments originated in Germany in the 19th century. However, such treatment can be found all over the world today, practised in different ways. The modern naturopathy treatment incorporates diverse forms practised in different areas. Naturopathy practitioners believe that the body has the ability to heal itself, especially by following a dietary regime and a change in lifestyle.

Naturopathy's main aim is not to treat disease but to shape the body to be able to resist any disease invasion and maintain health. The original Naturopathy treatment avoided any substance that enters the body (considered invasive) but the modern practise incoprporates some herbal intakes.

There are presently types of naturopaths (those who practise naturopathy) worldwide;

(a) Naturopathic physicians: These are mainly trained in US and Europe and can be referred to as professional naturopathy physicians. For training purposes, they must have a basic degree in sciences before being allowed to undertake training in naturopathy. They graduate after a 4-year study and receive Doctor of Naturopathy (ND) certification. Upon graduation, they can be licenced to work in their particular countries or any country they wish to practise in. Training institutions for naturopathy are still few as in US for example, there are only four. Several states in the US recognize this form of treatment and have set up regulatory bodies to oversee the practitioners.

(b) Naturopaths: These are those with the basic knowledge on naturopathy. Although there was no training previously, several of them have now acquired naturopathy knowledge through correspondence and training organizations which offer on-line training. These training organizations require one to have at least a high school diploma to be elligible for the training. However, they are not recognized by naturopathy regulatory egencies in the US. Although traditional naturopaths are to be found in this category, they are in most cases not subject to licensing.

(c) Conventional/Naturopathy physicians: These are originally trained conventional medicine physicians who decide to include naturopathy in their trade with the belief that this will increase their ability to handle diverse patients and successfully treat diseases. They include a wide range of medical professionals.

Modern naturopathy treatment can take any form for treatment to be achieved. Such forms include main dietary changes, dietary supplements including minerals ad vitamins, herbal medicines, lifestyle changes, counselling, exrcises, and mind therapies such as meditation and yoga.

As with other types of CAM, there are differences in opinion on the effectiveness of naturopathy treatments. But with conventional medical professionals continuing to seek training in naturopathy and governments establishing training instutions to train them, naturopathy is expected to spread and compliment conventional treatment methods.

Naturopathy is generally safe if prescribed by a trained healthcare provider. However, it cannot be said that it can replace conventional medicine. Should you visit your conventional physician with a medical problem and you are under naturopathy treatment for another different problem. It will be very important to point out this to him/her as naturopathy using herbs can be dangerous when used together with conventional medicine.