When I started practicing naturopathic medicine in 1996, it was almost impossible to find soy milk. Almond ilk, coconut milk, hemp milk, none of them existed. It is exciting to see integrative medicine becoming mainstream. Now I see the Mayo clinic has published a book on alternative medicine and a course in naturopathic medicine is being taught in medical schools as 62% of the North American population uses some form of alternative medicine. Further what is exciting is the growing scientific evidence base that supports the use of these treatments. Integrative medicine, blends the best of conventional and alternative medicine and is the mainstay of my practice. While the internet has enabled us to educate ourselves on alternatives, it has also promoted over-hyped products that promise to cure every ill. I can tell you after 17 years in practice, that no single cure exists that I have come across. Each of us is an individual and that is the foundation of the way that I treat people. In the end we are all unique creations - and what works for one person does not necessarily work for another. That is the beauty of being trained in a wide variety of therapeutics, such as acupuncture, nutrition, therapy, supplements, herbs, etc. It allows both the patient and myself to choose what works best for their lifestyle etc.
