Naturopathic medicine is a primary health care profession that focuses on prevention and uses natural methods to promote healing.

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are general practitioners of natural health care and employ a wide range of therapies to create a preventive, restorative and individualized approach to health care. These therapies include acupuncture and Asian medicine, botanical (herbal) medicine, homeopathic medicine, physical treatments, clinical nutrition counselling and lifestyle assessment and counselling.

Naturopathic medicine is founded on five principles:
• First, do no harm.
• Act in co-operation with the healing powers of nature.
• Address the fundamental causes of disease.
• Heal the whole person through individualized treatment.
• Teach the principles of healthy living and preventive medicines.

Ontario naturopathic doctors are provincially regulated with standardized credential requirements. Registered (sometimes called licensed) naturopathic doctors are required to complete three years of pre-medical studies at a recognized university, followed by four years of full-time training at an accredited college of naturopathic medicine – a comprehensive and rigorous education program. This four year program incorporates both classroom and hands-on clinical training. After graduation, NDs must pass intensive regulatory board examinations that are standardized across North America, before qualifying for registrations.