Naturopathy's New Propaganda Platform - Pais's Facebook via Google:

here, I cite from a google.com web search that displays an ND's Facebook page second in the results and claims that naturopathy is a branch of medical science [see 001.a. & b., below] and that links to the ND's clinical pages that label homeopathy a science [see 001.c., below]; then, I cite from that ND's alma mater, and its huge epistemic absurdity [see 002.a., below]; and, then I cite directly from the ND luminary that is mentioned in 001.b., [see 002.b. below]; finally, I offer a summation [see 002.c., below]:

001. web searching via google.com with the parameters >naturopathic "from the sciences"< results in:

001.a. a Facebook page by Pais, G. (ND NCNM 1992, DHANP AANP 1997) that is ranked second [as of  2010-03-29] titled "What is Naturopathic Medicine?" [vsc 2010-03-26] which states:

"naturopathic physicians are trained as general practitioners specializing in natural medicine. They have a doctor of naturopathic medicine (N.D.) degree from a four-year graduate medical college with admission requirements comparable to conventional medical schools. The N.D. degree requires graduate level study in medical sciences [...] in addition to the standard medical curriculum, naturopathic students must do extensive coursework in natural therapeutics. This includes therapies from the sciences [...including] homeopathy [...] naturopathic physicians cooperate with all other branches of medical science[...] naturopathic medicine is a system of medicine founded on an honored medical principle: nature heals [coded vitalism]. The body has the inherent ability to establish, maintain, and restore health [coded vitalism] and the naturopathic physician’s role is to facilitate and support this process [...] the body’s innate healing process [...] homeopathic medicine acts to strengthen the body’s innate immune response [coded vitalism...] the following principles are the foundation that naturopathic medicine is built on: [#1] the healing power of nature. Nature acts powerfully through healing mechanisms in the body and mind [coded vitalism] to maintain and restore health. Naturopathic physicians work to restore and support these inherent healing systems [coded vitalism] when they have broken down [...this is] a philosophy that works."

Note: so, there's the science claim galore, at supposed doctoral and professional levels of rigor. There's the label of science upon homeopathy [which is resoundingly NOT SCIENCE SUPPORTED].  And there's that typical ND MO: don't overtly reveal / transparently display / honestly relate naturopathy's principle article of faith: that physiology is run by a purposeful life spirit.  Instead, naturopathy obviously disguises such sectarian such and such in naturalistic language.

 

"Works?"  I'm trying to figure out how this philosophy works: equate something with what it is not, e.g. call articles of faith / the science-unsupported scientifically-derived / -supported, hide this absurd position from the public while trading on a false position.  I seriously don't think one gets past college undergraduate courses with such HUGE irrationality [never mind those at the doctoral level!].  And how can one posture the position of 'professional ethical rigor' from such falsehood? Most properly, naturopathy is in my view a mental illness.

 

001.b. a Facebook entry by Pais titled "Why Not Treat the Person Not the Disease" [psc 2010-03-29] states:

 

"Dr. Pizzorno is one of the standout naturopathic physicians of the last several decades. He is one of the world's leading authorities on science-based natural medicine."

 

Note: so, the four words most associated with Bastyr and Pizzorno are, as also reflected above, "science-based natural medicine."

 

001.c. Pais's clinical web pages, "For Optimal Health," state: 

 

001.c1. in "Classical Homeopathy" [vsc 2010-03-29]: 

 

"homeopathy is a scientific system of natural medicine [...] all together [homeopathy is] the best of both worlds — safe because they’re so dilute and powerful because of their energetic action [coded vitalism]."

 

Note: so we have the label of science upon homeopathy, and a supposed / putative 'energy' that is its mechanism that has never been measured -- like homeopathy's claimed affect.

 

001.c2. in "About Gregory Pais"[vsc 2010-03-29]: 

 

"Dr. Pais has been practicing classical homeopathy for fourteen years [...and he's] grounded in the science of wholistic medicine." 

 

Note: the wholistic is usually body,mind, spirit, nature, two of which are exterior to science [supernatualism, vitalism], and for naturopathy includes homeopathy.

 

002. analyzing NCNM, Pizzorno, and therein Pais's claims:

 

002.a. NCNM, Pais's alma mater, states in "Principles of Healing":

 

"the practice of naturopathic medicine emerges from six principles of healing [...that] are based on the objective observation of the nature of health and disease and are examined continually in light of scientific analysis [...they are] the distinguishing marks of the profession: [#1] the healing power of nature -- vis medicatrix naturae. The body has the inherent ability to establish, maintain, and restore health. The healing process is ordered and intelligent; nature heals through the response of the life force."

 

Note: ok, so in just four sentences, naturopathy visits upon the public EXTREME ABSURDITY.  We have the scientific claim, we have the science claim upon the hugely not scientific.  With science equated with nonscience, I can offer no other advice to anyone who falls under the shadow of such irrationality but RUN.  A profession?  As professional as it is scientific. 

 

002.b. Pizzorno states in "Total Wellness: Improve Your Health By Understanding the Body’s Healing Systems" (1996; ISBN 0761504338):

 

"some important concepts [are fundamental to naturopathy]. The healing power of nature  (vis medicatrix naturae). Our bodies have a tremendous ability to heal [coded vitalism...] natural healers refer to this inherent drive as 'the healing power of nature' or the vis medicatrix naturae [coded vitalism...] our underlying healing systems [p.003...] the routes to total wellness. Seven underlying, health-sustaining systems of our body must function effectively to ensure our well-being, prevent disease, and allow a full life [...including] our life-force (or spirit) [overt vitalism, equated with the supernatural]. Weakness in any of these seven systems results in susceptibilities that allow most common diseases to develop. Follow the recommendations below, strengthen all of these seven systems, and total wellness is yours [p.024...] live in harmony with your life-force [p.026 ...] live in harmony with the  psychosocial/spiritual/life-force [overt vitalism, equated with supernatural and some kind of 'social mind' whatever... p.317...] in mind/body medicine, the placebo effect is recognized as a marshaling of our self-healing abilities -- the life-force within each of us, which naturopathic physicians call the vis medicatrix naturae [overt vitalism...] it is increased awareness of and access to this teleological force, the healer within [in sum, the life force is a purposeful life spirit], that is the essence of each of us [p.333...] life force. See spiritual system [again, overt vitalism equated with the supernatural, p.410]."

 

Note: so, the leading expert in "science-based natural medicine" -- Pizzorno -- equates what is hugely not within science [vitalism, teleology, supernaturalism] with science.  That is the epistemic conflation of naturopathy -- which is a form of absurdity.  Again, run. 

 

002.c. Pais in relation: 

 

so, overall, naturopathy keeps claiming an overarching category of science-basis, while fundamentally based upon the nonscientific, which is often disguised in naturalistic language -- as Pais above demonstrates, and Pizzorno above begins from.

 

Run, run, run FAR AWAY.

Today, Two Criticisms of Homeopathy [UK, Canada]:

001. The Telegraph's Chiver's, T. (? ?) states in "Why Does Boots Sell Homeopathy Like It's Real Medicine?"(2010-03-26):

"my girlfriend went into Boots [...] and bought some arnica. Except she didn’t. She bought some sugar [...] the word 'arnica' did not immediately flag up for her the associated words 'homeopathy' and 'quackery', as it did for me (see the splendid 10:23 campaign for more information) [...] a homeopathic arnica solution [...] homeopathy [...] is based on [...] like cures like and [...] dilution increases potency [...] to increase the potency of their solution, homeopaths dilute it enormously [...] at 30C, that means there is one part active ingredient in a million billion billion billion billion billion billion parts water. That equals, roughly, one molecule of the active ingredient in a ball of water with the same diameter as the Earth’s orbit around the Sun [...] it is placebo [...] why [does] Boots, a respected high street chemist [...] sell my unsuspecting better half something labelled 'arnica' when it might be more accurately labelled 'no arnica' [...] it does nothing, because it contains nothing [...] if Boots are going to sell it, could they not put it under a sign saying 'make-believe medicine'? Or 'gullibility pills'?"

002. Rabble.ca's Mang, E. (? ?) states in "Homeopathy Preys on the Desperate"(2010-03-26): 

"there was a recent story in the mainstream media about a naturopath who went to Jacmel, Haiti to dispense homeopathic 'remedies'. Ailing Haitians who had lined up thinking they would have access to medicine, left after learning that what was being offered had no medical value [...] I see this as taking advantage of vulnerable people with a concoction that fails every on every scientific front [...] but just because something gives one hope doesn't mean it works [...] there's the problem of post hoc ergo propter hoc ('after this, therefore because of this') thinking [...] taking an unproven 'remedy' for an ailment and healing after five days. That could very well have been your body healing itself and not the unproven 'remedy' [...] so it goes with homeopathy. In short, homeopathy is water [...] we have made significant scientific advances in the past 200 years. Homeopathy defies the basic premises of physics and chemistry [...] you shouldn't be surprised that not one person has overdosed on a homeopathic remedy [...] if homeopathy is no better than a sugar pill, that it merely fools the body into thinking a curative medication has been consumed, then this defeats the notion that homeopathy is an effective medicine [...] the only way to ensure that homeopathy actually works is to subject it to a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial [...] homeopaths are reticent to do this [...] I think this gives them cover to keep making money off people desperately seeking treatment. Not only does homeopathy fail scientific testing, if it preys on the vulnerable, it is unethical [...] an open mind is a skeptical mind. It's a mind that desires evidence, but it's also a mind that welcomes change when delivered proof. If homeopathy can pass double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trials, I will change my tune. Until then, homeopathy is a sham, it preys on the desperate, and despite all the good intentions of its practitioners, they should mull over the ethics of their actions."

Note: meanwhile, NDs call homeopathy "clinical science."

The Late Green_____, D. (ND NCNM 1990), and Naturopathy's Similar Double Life

here, I cite from reporting concerning the alleged / apparent illegal-drug-dealing-related violent homicide of Oregon ND Green_____ [see 001., below]; then, I cite from his current web pages [see 002., below]; and, then I show how those web pages don't accurately / transparently represent naturopathy by comparing his alma mater NCNM's naturopathy description to that of the ND's clinic web pages [see 003., below]; and then, I connect [see 004., below]:

001. according to news.google.com:

001.a. The Oregonian's "Washington County Police Arrest Man in SE Portland Naturopathic Doctor's Death" (2010-03-19)[vsc 2012-03-29] states:

"[as reported by Helen Jung] police have arrested a man in the killing of a naturopathic doctor who was discovered dead last Sunday and initially believed to be a suicide. Detectives now think the shooting of David Green____, 46, of Southeast Portland was drug-related [...] Green____ operated the Green____ GoodHealth Clinic [GGHC] in Tigard. A 1986 graduate of Pennsylvania State University, he received his naturopathic degree from the National College of Natural Medicine [NCNM] in Portland in 1990, according to a release from the college [...] he was a past president of the Oregon Association of Naturopathic Physicians [...and] served as a board member for the college [NCNM]."

001.b. KPTV reports in "Deputies Rule Doctor's Death Homicide" (2010-03-19):

"investigators initially thought the 46-year-old took his own life, but later determined he'd been killed after leaving to make a drug deal."

001.c. KGW.com states in "Police: Man Killed Naturopathic Doc in Drug Deal" (2010-03-19):

"deputies called what they found 'a troubling picture involving [presumably illegal recreational] drug use and drug sales [of such].'"

001.d. nwcn.com states in "Naturopathic Doctor Killed in Drug Deal Led a Double Life" (2010-03-20):

"a Portland area naturopathic doctor was murdered over a drug deal, his death then was made to look like a suicide, detectives said Friday."

Note: his web page biography in 2005 stated "he has also served as President of the Oregon Association of Naturopathic Physicians and is currently Vice-President of the Board of Directors at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine." I emphasize this because what I'd like to point out is that things [people, institutions!] aren't always what they seem: I think the community is surprised that a 'doctor' was apparently / allegedly a drug-dealer. Similarly, Green____'s web pages [see 002., below] do not accurately / transparently portray naturopathy just like his alma mater does too [see 003., below]. In other words, Green_____'s descriptions of / labels upon 'the essentially naturopathic' are incomplete and false just like his alma mater's, where he was TAUGHT.

002. Green_____'s web pages [aka GGHC; while they still are up (I've archived them too); he practiced with Mages, N. (ND NCNM 2001) most recently]:

002.a. the homepage states [vsc 2010-03-20]:

"Natural Medicine For Women and Their Families in Portland, Oregon."

Note: his practice was mainly marketed to women.

002.b. the "About Us" pages states [vsc 2010-03-20]:

"Dr. Green_____ grew up in Princeton, New Jersey and attended Penn State University, where he received a bachelor of sciences degree with honors in molecular and cell biology, in 1986. He graduated from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in 1990."

Note: so, he is an NCNM 1990 ND with a bachelors in biology.

002.c. the "A Message From Dr. Green____" page states [in language that has roughly been going on since 2003] [vsc 2010-03-20]:

"I found a new set of scientific principles in naturopathic medicine [...] we appreciate the scientific basis in medicine, and we revere the wisdom and natural laws inherent in nature."

Note: so, the label Green_____ placed upon the principles of naturopathy is "scientific." I wonder where that came from? [see 003., below].

002.d. the "Frequently Asked Questions" page states [in language that has roughly been going on since 2003] [vsc 2010-03-20]:

"medical doctors generally operate from a perspective [...that] can produce a relief of symptoms in the short term [but] it does not really work to understand or correct the underlying cause of the problem[*]. Naturopathic physicians operate from a perspective that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself [coded vitalism...] this inherent healing ability [coded vitalism...] the body's inherent self-correcting systems [coded vitalism...] this ability of the body [coded vitalism...] 'naturopathic care is not scientific' - that's what they [MDs] say. However, naturopathic medicine and its various methods are scientifically studied and proven in all types of medical research facilities and journals. There are many other aspects of naturopathic care that are better defined and studied using other scientific approaches than the typical one seen in our medical system [loosening of the rigors of science!]. Many of these perspectives are challenging to the average medical doctor [ah, those measly MDs]."

Note: so, there is the HUGE coding of the essential premise of naturopathy, and a claim of science placed upon the naturopathic per "studied and proven". 

*Of course, if you pose a solution to a problem...and you've invented the problem in the first place [like your vital force needs our treatment]...and the problem is essentially FAKE...I think such is termed RACKETEERING [because there isn't such a vital force].  So, saying 'only us NDs can truly solve your problems, regular medicine just puts a band-aid over it' smacks of that to me.

002.e. the "Digestive Health" page states [vsc 2010-03-20]:

"our physical bodies are ultimately composed of the food that we consume. Today, American's are part of a massive, uncontrolled food science experiment [...] at GGHC we understand the science behind these facts and have expertise in identifying the underlying cause of your symptoms."

Note: so, we have a science expertise claim.

002.f. the "Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain" page states [vsc 2010-03-20]:

"naturopathic medicine offers a unique perspective on fibromyalgia and chronic pain. This is because the scientific principles incorporate a study of the function in the body’s tissues and organs."

Note: so, here we are told that the principles of naturopathy are scientific.

002.g. what you don't find, via a google.com search:

mention on any GGHC page of "life force", "medicatrix", "healing power", "spirit" -- concepts which are essential to mention in order to actually be talking about 'the naturopathic'. This is on the pages of a former OAND president and NCNM board member!

Note: fascinating, things aren't always what they SEEM / are presented as.

003. what NCNM reveals about naturopathy, as compared to ND Green_____'s language:

the central NCNM web page that explains / labels naturopathy contextually is "Principles of Healing" [vsc 2010-03-21]. Both NDs at GGHC's pages were NCNM graduates, and those NDs practiced in Oregon under OBNM. NCNM is in Oregon. At NCNM's page we are informed that:

003.a. naturopathy is scientific and professional:

"the practice of naturopathic medicine emerges from six principles of healing [...which are] the distinguishing marks of the profession [...] These principles are based on the objective observation of the nature of health and disease and are examined continually in light of scientific analysis."

Note: so, there is this overall impression / 'broad marketing claim' that naturopathy's claims are "objective", and survive scientific scrutiny.

003.b. naturopathy is based upon vitalism:

"[in principle #1] the healing power of nature, vis medicatrix naturae [...] the inherent ability to establish, maintain, and restore health [...which] is ordered and intelligent; nature heals through the response of the life force [...] the process of healing includes the generation of symptoms, which are, in fact, expressions of the life force attempting to heal itself [...naturopathy is] the practice of promoting health through stimulation of the vital force."

Note: so, after claiming naturopathy is "science" we're told that the "life force" is "in fact." Yet, vitalism has been science-ejected for several decades, minimally. Remember, none of this medicatrix / vital life force language was up at GGHC in explicit language.  It was up in what I call coded language: it's up at NCNM whereas it wasn't at GGHC, but both falsely label nonscience as scientific.

003.c. naturopathy is based upon supernaturalism / spiritism:

"causes may occur on many levels, including physical, mental-emotional, and spiritual [...] health and disease are conditions of the whole organism, involving a complex interaction of physical, spiritual, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, and social factors [...] the physician must also make a commitment to her/his personal and spiritual development [...] homeopathic medicine [...] works on a subtle, yet powerful, energetic level, gently acting to promote healing on the physical, mental, and spiritual levels."

Note: spirit, spirit, spirit. Remember, we were told by GGHC that this was natural, natural, natural.  But, here is supernaturalism posed as within science. Yet, supernaturalism has been ejected from science for a few hundred years.  In claiming science subset nonscience and supernatural...we're really afar from what is TRUE.

003.d. naturopathy is professional:

"[our] principles stand as the distinguishing marks of the profession [...] as a distinct American health care profession, naturopathic medicine [...] they called their profession 'naturopathy' [...] NCNM has been at the center of the profession [...] the profession has experienced a resurgence [...] National College of Natural Medicine alumni have also founded professional associations to promote and expand naturopathic medicine. This is an exciting time to join the profession."

Note: profession, profession, profession. I can't name another profession which is so wrongheaded while claiming 'highest ethical standards'.

004. naturopathy leads a double life [there's what it seems to be / appears itself to be...and there's what's really going on; just like a 'doctor' who is also a drug-dealer, allegedly!]:

it presents itself as scientific, but it is essentially science-ejected;

it presents itself as objective fact, when it is in fact a subjective belief system;

it claims professionalism but it can't occupy that level of fiduciary duty if it cannot transparently communicate its essential context as a science-ejected sectarian healing system.

Note: so, am I surprised that a member of a sectarian healing cult which HUGELY, falsely and incompletely postures itself to the community [both clinically and education-wise] was allegedly doing something similar / as doubly?

No.

one might even entertain the idea that NCNM's example TAUGHT that kind of behavior.

NDs are taught [and I think it's a crafty form of abuse, actually] that the scientific and the science-ejected are the same thing, and they are taught not to be transparent / up-front about the whole thing.

THAT is cultic, and manipulative.

now, what's also very appalling is that this naturopathic duplicity mode has been written into Oregon law! [vsc 2010-03-20]

so, I can't say it is illegal in Oregon.

Update 2012-03-29 [I mildly edited the text above, too]:

the Oregonian tells us in "Murder trial set to begin in 2010 death of Tigard physician, shot outside Cornelius" (2012-03-29) [vsc 2012-03-29]:

"[as reported by Emily E. Smith] trial is scheduled to begin next week for the man [Bement] accused of aggravated murder in the shooting death of David Green_____, a naturopathic physician [...] prosecutors will argue that Bement shot Green____ three times to rob him of $25,000 in cash and eliminate a debt he owed the doctor [...]  prosecutors said the two men has a business relationship in which Bement arranged drug deals and Green____ supplied the cash [...] Green_____died with methamphetamine, heroin and prescription drugs in his system, according to an autopsy report. His drug use and statements he made in the months before his death show he had become 'increasingly paranoid and psychotic,' defense attorneys say."

Update 2012-05-17:

it has been reported that the murderer of ND Green_____ has gotten life without parole for the crime (here).  And I do wonder, as I have since about the year 2001...

how long will naturopathy overall as a crime against reason, science, medicine and fairness continue without correction?

'Dear Patient, This is Science' - ND Diana:

Diana, L.M. (ND CCNM) states in "New Patient Welcome"[vsc 2010-03-19]:

"naturopathic medicine is a distinct primary health care system that blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine. Naturopathic medicine is the art and science of disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention [...] naturopathic doctors [...] cooperate with other branches of medical science [...] the education encompasses basic medical sciences [...] nutritional microscopy [huh???] is the science of qualitative blood analysis [...] homeopathic doctors combine the art and science of healing."

Note: that lovely lunacy of the blended-distinct, and the label galore of SCIENCE upon the naturopathic enterprise.  And upon such absurdities such has homeopathy, and invented areas such as nutritional microscopy.

Simply Not True Labels: Naturopathy As "Grounded In Science", Respectful via ND Becker at StarTribune.com

here, I quote from a recent article at StarTribune.com that quotes an ND who labels naturopathy 'respectful' and 'science-grounded' [see 001., below]; but, when we THINK, knowing naturopathy's 'sectarian hidden underneath' and what actual science is, that doesn't add up [see 002., below]; and then, I quote directly from that ND's web page[s] which particularly falsely labels naturopathy's homeopathy "science" [see 003., below]: 

001. Giguere, N. (? ?) reports in "Taking The Natural Path" (2010-03-15)[vsc 2010-03-16]:

"[according to] Kristin Becker [ND Bastyr 2004...] naturopathic doctor [...naturopathy is] 'an approach to medicine that's grounded in science and based on respect for both nature and the individual,' she says." 

Note: so, that's the science label used typically by naturopathy [ho-hum], and particularly Bastyr.  Bastyr, of course, is quite absurd in that their label of science is placed up on the supernatural which is science-ejected for a few hundred years, and the vitalistic, which is also science-ejected for several decades [at least].  And we are each promised "respect" [in such an absurd context!].

002. in sum, aka here I decode by THINKING, and I THINK about respect:

002.a. is the science-grounded equal to the science-ejected / -unsupported?  No, they are mutually exclusive;

002.b. what is the nature of the "nature" that naturopathy bases itself upon:

a falsely labeled, often opaquely expressed sectarian science-ejected article of faith;

002.c. and that is the absurdity of naturopathy, labeling something it hugely isn't and trading upon that falsehood. 

003. Becker states, furthermore, at her own web page:

003.a. in "What is Naturopathic Medicine?"[vsc 2010-03-19]:

"based in scientific research [...] the following principles are the foundation of naturopathic medical practice: the healing power of nature (vis medicatrix naturae) [HPN-VMN]. Naturopathic medicine recognizes an inherent self-healing process in the body that is ordered and intelligent. Naturopathic physicians act to identify and remove obstacles to recovery as well as to facilitate and augment this healing ability."

Note: so, there is the "scientific" claim over HPN-VMN.  But, naturopathy's vitalistic context which is what HPN-VMN is, is in fact profoundly science-ejected.

003.b. in "The Education of a Naturopathic Doctor"[vsc 2010-03-19]:

"a licensed naturopathic doctor [...is] educated in all of the same basic sciences and conventional diagnostics as an M.D." 

Note: if naturopathy's science is the same, then why is what is hugely not science [the vitalistic, the supernatural] falsely labeled science?

003.c. in "Treatment Options and Services"[vsc 2010-03-19]:

"homeopathy is a scientific method of cure [...] the therapeutic use of homeopathic medicines is based on scientific experimentation."

Note: now, homeopathy HUGELY isn't science, and that's quite preponderant.

004. these were some of naturopathy's 'simply not true' labels:

therein, are you being respected when you are being misled by the extremely WRONG and absurd [the naturopathic/nonscience claimed as science]?

No.

Adam Dreamhealer's 'Naturopathy is Science' Claim and Coded Vitalism:

here, I quote from energy healer and apparent naturopathy fan Adam Dreamhealer [see 001., below]; then, from Skeptic North [see 002., below]:

001. Adam Dreamhealer states in "What is a Naturopathic Doctor"(2010-03-14):

"naturopathic medicine is a distinct primary health care system that blends modern scientific knowledge with [etc....] naturopathic medicine is the art and science of disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention [...] naturopathic doctors [...] enhance health care services provided by other health care professionals [...and] cooperate with other branches of medical science [...] the practice of naturopathic medicine is based on 6 principles: [#1] the healing power of nature: the body is a self-regulating and self-healing organism [...NDs] choose therapies that gently support and stimulate normal function [...] this healing process."

Note: I enjoy the CAND / AANP-like language wherein one states that that which is distinct is a blend / integration [quite naturopathic in their 'something is what it isn't' style]; since science blended with an overarching nonscience isn't science, stating that naturopathy is a branch of medical science isn't logical -- particularly after stating that naturopathy is 'some science mixed with lots of nonscience' [but, after the distinct-blend precedent, we're already being steered into a land of huge illogic]; we have the claim of professionalism placed over naturopathy, yet why is it that we are not told [as is typical of the ND MO] that that #1 principle is in fact the science-ejected premise of vitalism?  Such coded vitalism / opacity emphasizes to me how indistinct, nonscientific, and nonprofessional naturopathy actually is. AD appears to be working towards an ND.

002. Skeptic North states in "Adam Dreamhealer - Are His Intentions Valid?"(2009-11-24):

"[per Polevey] Adam has been exposed in articles the Skeptical Inquirer, James Randi Foundation, Skeptic Magazine [...] several skeptical web sites have exposed Dreamhealer's powers as bogus, including LiveScience.com and ScienceBlogs.com [...] he claims to be enrolled in a naturopathic college, but the two most logical ones in Seattle and in the Vancouver area deny that he is a student there [...] Adam seems to have grown fond of Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington, where he holds regular workshops at the naturopathic college's main auditoriums."

Note: so, there are mixed messages about AD's ND future.  I personally don't believe such powers exist.  If so, why hasn't AD won Randi's million?

Naturopathy's #2 Principle at CAND.ca -- The Vitalism CAND Dare Not Transparently Communicate:

here, I quote from the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors' [CAND] opaque description of the #2 essential principle of naturopathy, HPN-VMN [see 001., below]; and then I provide a little transparency [see 002., below]:

001. CAND states in "Guiding Principles" [vsc 2010-03-08]:

"naturopathic doctors are guided by six principles [...] emphasized throughout a naturopathic doctor's training [...that form] the foundation of this distinct form of health care [...#2] the healing power of nature (vis medicatrix naturae) [HPN-VMN...] the powerful and inherent healing ability of your body, mind and spirit [...an] ordered and intelligent healing ability." 

 

Note: and that's all you get.  There is NO MENTION -- in any straightforward kind of manner -- of the actual context of this #2 principle, which is that human physiology is run by a 'purposeful life spirit' aka 'vital force'.

002. upon the preponderance:

when the beast is cornered and light is shone upon it [when HPN-VMN is decoded], #2 is a sectarian vitalistic context that is thoroughly science-discarded.

Note: what kind of supposed 'profession' opaquely communicates its essential premise?

 

Not much different from Scientology getting their foot in the door with a personality test!

NDs as Primary Care Physicians - Ontario's Udell, Rudy, Rose and 'Nonscience Science' Nonsense:

here, I quote from a recent [apparent] press release labeling naturopaths PCPs [see 001., below; this label contradicts language in my last post at Naturocrit from "naturopathic oncologist" Rubin et al.!]; I then visit the current web page of that ND Udell and her partner ND Rudy [see 002., below]; and then I point out the huge absurdity of naturopathy through their oversight entities [see 003. and 004., below]:

 

001. the Packet and Times reports in "Udell Opens New Clinic: Naturopathic Medicine":

"naturopathic doctors are primary-care physicians [PCP] that treat all types of health concerns ranging from prevention of disease, to acute conditions, to treatment of chronic illnesses [...ND] Alison Udell would like to announce her new clinic location at the Murlyn Health Center, located at 19 Albert St. N. in Orillia. Udell obtained her honors bachelor of science degree from the University of Guelph before attending the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, where she graduated as a naturopathic doctor (ND) [in 2009]."

Note: so, we have the claim of PCP, that all things medical / health are treated. We also have the mention of a science background, which as a bachelors isn't that impressive, but it means something.  You might think that a person with a B.S.[?] would at least know what ISN'T science [like vitalism], or at least know how to find out such from national and international science organizations and sources.  In other words, you'd at least think there'd be a modicum of due diligence.

002. at Midhurst Natural Health Clinic, NDs Udell, A. (ND CCNM 2009) and Rudy, A. (ND CCNM) state:

002.a. in "Naturopathic Medicine" [vsc 2010-03-07]:

"the following are the general principles that provide the basic framework of which naturopathic medicine is built on: first, to do no harm; to treat the causes of disease; to teach the principles of healthy living and preventative medicine; to heal the whole person through individualized treatment; to emphasize prevention; to support the healing power of the body [aka HPN, therein coded vitalism...] naturopathic doctors must have a minimum of 3 years of university education including the required pre-medical sciences [...] in order to gain a license to practice naturopathic medicine in Ontario they must successfully complete the North American board exams and the provincial board exams [...] the naturopathic medical program is a four year full time program with much of the same curriculum that is covered in conventional medical schools [BULLSHIT!!!]. NDs are therefore trained in the medical sciences, pathology of disease, lab and blood work, pharmacology, and physical exams in addition to the unique naturopathic ways of diagnosing and treating disease [...] ND’s often use the ancient art of Chinese medicine to diagnose and treat disease [TCM] in addition to using [...] homeopathy [...] naturopathic medicine can be effective to help prevent and treat many chronic and acute diseases [PCPing!]."

Note: the principles that naturopathy is couched within, on this page, are presented in simplistic [deceptive!], naturalistic language [when essentially NOT such].  I decode the sixth principle HPN in 003. below because it is not explained contextually at all.  Science is claimed as a prerequisite, indicating a posture of 'scientific mindedness' as a requirement for naturopathy, then naturopathy is posed as a 'typical medical school science education'.  And there is emphasis of board examinations as icing on all of this. Homeopathy and TCM's essential premises I'll discuss in 003., because such is intimately linked to HPN.  Homeopathy, of course, is sheer bunk -- falsely labeled clinical science on that NPLEX board exam!  And TCM is a form of Oriental prescientific thinking. And of course there's a PCP claim.

002.b. in "Our Team":

002.b1. Rudy states:

"Andrea Rudy is regulated by the Board of Directors of Drugless Therapy - Naturopathy (BDDT-N) and is a member of the following professional associations: Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors (OAND) and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND)."

Note: these ND affiliations and their requisite beliefs get fleshed out in 003., since it is an overarching ND preponderance that exposes the sectarian underpinnings of naturopathy.

002.b2. Udell states:

"Alison Udell [is a] naturopathic doctor. Alison Udell obtained her honors bachelor of science [...] from the University of Guelph [...] she attended the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) where she graduated in 2009 as a naturopathic doctor (ND) [...] at CCNM she completed an internship at the Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic [...including] a specialty shift in pediatrics [...and] treat[ed] adults with varying health issues [a PCP claim...] Alison believes that disease results from an imbalance between the mind, body and spirit [whatever that means!...] her treatment goal is to address where the imbalance lies [...the] naturopathic modalities Alison focuses on [...include] homeopathy [and] traditional Chinese medicine / acupuncture [...] NDs are primary care physicians [a PCP claim...and are] health care professionals."

Note: there is again a science association.  Now, this ND belief is body-mind-spirit is itself a representation, in my view, of what I will flesh out in 003., below. We also get the 'naturopathy PCP claim',  and an 'of the professions' claim.

003. some decoding through OAND and CAND of naturopathy's "healing power of the body" / HPN principle / framework / context:

003.a. at OAND, we are told in “Homeopathy: An ND’s Perspective” (Natural Path, Winter 2002) [vsc 2010-03-07]:

"[per Rose, Z. (ND CCNM), who also hosts this article here] the [homeopathic] remedy then stimulates the body to heal itself. It does this by supporting the 'vital force' of the person. Hahnemann described this vital force as the energy that animates all living things [p.006…] when an imbalance occurs (Hahnemann refers to this as a disturbance in the person’s vital force), symptoms, signs or susceptibilities appear [p.007].”

Note: we are also told by OAND that the label overarching all of this is "science" in that same OAND article per "Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician and chemist, discovered and developed homeopathy into a science [...] has homeopathy been scientifically proven? The short answer is yes."  OAND also states, in a 2009 item, that "science-based, safe and effective, patient-centered care are at the heart of all ND care" [vsc 2010-03-08].

At Rose's own web page, we are told naturopathy is professional and scientific per "About Zorana Rose ND" that "Zorana Rose ND provides a truly integrative form of health care to complement and enhance services provided by other health care professionals. She cooperates with other branches of medical science."  She also postures PCPing, via her "Professional Development".

003.b. at CAND, we are told in "Questions: All Questions" [vsc 2010-03-07]:

"naturopathic doctors use a variety of non-toxic, non-pharmaceutical treatments. All naturopathic doctors in Canada are trained and licensed in the following natural therapies [...] homeopathic remedies are minute dilutions of plant, animal and mineral substances designed to stimulate the body's 'vital force' and strengthen its innate ability to heal. Traditional Chinese medicine / acupuncture [is] based on balancing the flow of chi (energy) through meridian pathways under the skin, Oriental medicine includes the use of Oriental herbs and acupuncture to regulate and release chi in order to bring the body into balance."

Note: we are also told, on the same page, that the label overarching all of this science-ejected vitalism is science per "naturopathic diagnosis and therapeutics [and principles!] are supported by scientific research."  And CAND, in a 2007 press release [vsc 2010-03-08], stated "naturopathic doctors are primary health care providers with 7 years post-secondary education that practice safe, effective, science-based natural health care."

004. naturopathy's basic / fundamental / defining vitalistic premise is IN FACT science-ejected:

so, what other supposed 'profession' does this: bases itself on a HUGE absurdity / irrationality [e.g., that the scientific is the completely science-ejected], and hides its actual context? 

And what kind of regulatory entity incompetence or possible legal gaps allow such deception to continue, both in terms of education and practice?

'Naturopathic Oncology' Absurdity - Cancer Specialists Who Admit They're Not Qualified:

here, I cite from web documents at Naturopathic Specialists [NS] of Scottsdale, AZ wherein: NS tells us that naturopaths can get a board certification in oncology and that they are 'world leading cancer experts' looking out for a patient's best interests [see 001., below]; yet, we are also told by NS that naturopaths are NOT primary care physicians and are NOT best-qualified to handle oncology [see 002., below]; then, I highlight two NS 'at odds' labels which are also naturopathy-wide, that the naturopathic is essentially vitalistic [and supernatural!] while essentially scientific [see 003., below]; I then list the NS NDs [see 004., below]; and, finally, then I show Bastyr's and SCNM's 'vitalistic scientific absurdity' since they are the two alma maters of these oncological NDs [see 005., below].

 

*This post was re-proofread and the links were augmented with current Archive.org curations 2026-05-09:

001. NS states in "Board Certification in Naturopathic Oncology" [2010 archived here]:

"Board Certification in Naturopathic Oncology. Both Drs. Rubin and Alschuler are Fellows of the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology (FABNO).  This Board Certification represents the highest expertise in the area of naturopathic oncology by being recognized as such by our national association, the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) [...which] is rigorous [...] naturopathic oncologists are experts in the application of naturopathic medicine in an oncology setting and are not trained or certified to offer conventional oncology care such as that offered by medical or radiation oncologists [...] Drs. Rubin and Alschuler are experts and world leaders in naturopathic oncology [...] Drs. Rubin and Alschuler believe that good communication is essential to proper treatment [...] Drs. Rubin and Alschuler believe that the highest precept of medical care is to educate people with cancer about their disease. Once people truly better understand what is happening in their body, they often become more empowered. In this sense, education becomes a healing modality [...] empowering people: the goal at Naturopathic Specialists is to make you truly 'in-charge' of your well-being to help motivate, encourage, enable and empower you [...] Drs. Rubin and Alschuler help you navigate the maze of available treatment options and those which may be better suited to you as an individual [...] Drs. Rubin and Alschuler can provide the keys to the myriad of opportunities for treatment that exist in the world of integrative medicine [...] Drs. Rubin and Alschuler are not only skilled in the aspects of your oncological and immunological problems, but are your advocates in all aspects of your treatment."

Note: so, NDs Rubin and Alschuler are marketing themselves as "rigorous"ly qualified, "expert" "world leaders" in a kind of oncology. I disagree with SO MUCH. Ah, the rigor of the AANP: yet, AANP grossly labels the profoundly science-ejected as science. Ah, the rigors of good naturopathic communication: yet, NDs do not transparently communicate their fundamental science-ejected premise. Ah, the rigors of naturopathic education / educating: wherein, absurd sectarian figmentations are labeled scientific and nonsectarian at AANMC schools. Ah, the rigors of naturopathic empowerment: wherein, you are fleeced as their pockets are lined commercially. Ah, the rigors of naturopathic guidance: wherein you are given sugar pills like homeopathy and told that they have a profound or powerful effect on health. Ah, the rigors of naturopathic treatment expertise: wherein wacko therapies like reiki and craniosacral therapy are mislabeled as hugely efficacious. Ah, the rigors of naturopathic advocacy: wherein, naturopathy poses a fiduciary duty / 'professional ethical status' that naturopathy cannot possibly live up to [because it is couched in absurdity (see 003., below)].

002. NS states in "Consent to Consultation" [vsc 2010-03-06, 2012-01-13; 2012 archived here]:

"consent to consultation [...] Naturopathic Specialists [...] provide[s] services to people [...] who have been diagnosed with cancer [...] the patient understands that Naturopathic Specialist’s Physicians [...] are not primary care physicians [PCPs], board certified medical oncologists or immunologists. Dr. Rubin is board certified in naturopathic oncology. None of the physicians are trained nor qualified to manage the overall care of a person with cancer [...] the patient understands that the physicians may not be able to manage the overall care of a person with cancer [...] the patient understands that the treatment suggestions provided by the Physicians are not all accepted by the United States FDA and therefore should not be taken as such [...] I have read and understood the above criteria and give my full consent to a consultation and / or treatment from Naturopathic Specialists."

Note: I find the disconnect HUGE.  NDs usually hugely claim to be PCPs [2015 archived here], yet here we get the admission that they don't think they are.  After claiming a huge ability to coordinate a patient's cancer regimen as 'oncologist', they then state that they are not qualified to be 'physicians'.  Plus, as a patient you get to be a part of experimental, unapproved protocols in all this illogic / absurdity.  Who would consent?  Sadly, likely, the desperate or unaware cancer patient.

003. naturopathy's essential absurdity -- the vitalistic science-ejected posed as science [a subset of naturopathy's 'anything is science' posture!]:

003.a. Rubin, D. (ND SCNM) of NS states naturopathy's essential vitalism in "Naturopathic Medicine: Ways, Means, and Practicality" [vsc 2010-03-06; 2009 archived here]:

"precepts. Vis medicatrix naturae [slide 010...] vis medicatrix naturae. Vis = energy, strength or force [...] the body possesses the inherent ability to restore health. The physician's role is to facilitate this process with the aid of natural nontoxic therapies [slide 11...] the vital force. This describes the energy essential for life, the innate life principle, or the inherent power within every living organism. Naturopathic doctors seek to support the vital force."

Note: ye old science-ejected vitalistic nonsense.

003.b. Alschuler, L.N. (ND Bastyr 1994) of NS states naturopathy's supposed science basis in "Meet Our Physicians" [2008 archived here]:

"she believes that her job as a naturopathic physician and educator is to stimulate and support the innate healing processes within each individual by applying a scientifically based strategy that utilizes the most natural and least harmful approaches possible."

 Note: so, naturopathy therein is the science-based nonscientific being that 'naturopathy supports the science-ejected vital force scientifically', in sum.

004. currently, NS lists their NDs as:

Rubin, D. (ND SCNM 1997, FABNO AANP), 

Alschuler, L.N. (ND Bastyr 1994, FABNO AANP), 

Coats, M. (ND SCNM 2008), 

Turner, L. (ND SCNM 2007).

Note: so, we might assume that these NDs learned 'naturopathy's essential absurdity M.O.' from their alma maters Bastyr and SCNM!

005. therefore, turning to Bastyr and SCNM [naturopathic institutional absurdity alert!]:

005.a. Bastyr states naturopathy's essential vitalism in "Alternative Medicine: Homeopathy and Children” (Seattle P.I.; 2007-08-01) [2007 archived here] via Mercer, N.J. (ND Bastyr 1987) [2007 archived here]:

“[she's a] naturopathic physician specializing in homeopathy and an adjunct faculty member, Bastyr U. [...] how does it work? Homeopathy turns on the 'self heal' switch. Chinese medicine calls it the 'chi.' Naturopathic medicine calls it the 'vis.' Homeopathy calls it the 'vital force.' They all describe the energy inhabiting the human body that when stimulated moves the human system toward greater health" while claiming the naturopathic is essentially scientific [a link-out to http://sothisisscience.blogspot.com/ which I have as of 2026 pulled from public view].

 

005.b. SCNM states naturopathy's essential vitalism in "Is Alternative Medicine For You?" [link is the 2003 curated page]:

"the healing power of nature [...] first described in western medicine by Hippocrates, the vis medicatrix naturae, is also referred to as chi in Chinese medicine, prana in ayurveda, and vital force in homeopathy. When alive, the vis medicatrix naturae enables humans and other living beings to resist entropy and decay, unlike inanimate objects that are subject to these effects. Creating treatment plans that harness the healing power of nature [...] the essence of naturopathic medicine" while claiming such is essentially scientific [a link-out to http://sothisisscience.blogspot.com/ which I have as of 2026 pulled from public view].

Note: all the while, such vitalism is hugely science-ejected [a link-out to a trove of position statements on the matter that I've collected over the years]. [This post was lightly updated 2012-01-13].

Iowa ND / NMD Legislation Dead!

The Des Moines Register reports in "Legislative Funnel: What's Dead" (2010-02-05):

"Naturopathic Doctors: Would have allowed for the licensing of naturopathic physicians. SF 2262."

Note: apparently, this was the proposal, in part:

"a naturopathic physician licensed under chapter 154G may use the words 'naturopathic physician'  or the initials 'N.D.' or 'N.M.D.' after the person's name [...] 'naturopathic medicine' means a system of primary health care for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of human health conditions, injury, and disease; the promotion or restoration of health; and the support and stimulation of a patient's inherent self-healing processes [coded vitalism!!!]  through patient education and the use of naturopathic therapies and therapeutic substances."

Fascinating, the bill itself wasn't even transparently communicating naturopathy's actual science-ejected sectarian premise of vitalism.  Yet, it labeled naturopathy 'of professional ethical status'.  Absurd.

Fabricating "Science-Based Natural Medicine"

here, I do a simple Google search and report the first-page results [see 001., below]; and then add some commentary [see 002., below]:

001. a Google web search per >"science-based natural medicine"< results in such first-page hits as [2010-03-04]:

001.a. two web pages by Pizzorno, J.E. (ND NCNM 1975) who labels himself "one of the world¹s leading authorities on science-based natural medicine" (here, here);

001.b. a web page promoting Kuzniar, L. (ND CCNM) that states "naturopathic doctor practicing science-based natural medicine";

001.c. a Bastyr University page that states "Drs. Les Griffith, William A. Mitchell, Jr., and Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr. [...built] the school on a science-based foundation [...] 'we had already decided on the basic foundation — science-based and accredited' [...] Dr. Bastyr was an early champion of science-based natural medicine";

001.d. an Amazon.com page titled "No Hype, Science-Based Natural Medicine" apparently by ND Appleton, J. (ND NCNM);

001.e. a web page at naturalhealthcare.org titled "Naturopathic Medicine/ Science-Based Natural Healthcare";

001.f. two web pages from the Science-Based Medicine blog that critique naturopathy either in their post body or the comments (here, here);

001.g. the Wellpath Clinic of Nobrega-Porter, K. (ND CCNM) that states "using current science-based natural medicine we provide safe and effective therapies to help achieve excellence in whole patient sustainable wellness";

001.h. the Natural Medicine Journal  which states "leading our scientific advisory team are two of the world's leading authorities on science-based natural medicine -- Joe Pizzorno ND, educator, researcher, expert spokesperson, and founding president of Bastyr University";

002. well, the jokes on everyone who believes that 'the naturopathic' is "science-based":

002.a. naturopathy is committed to the concept of a purposeful life spirit running physiology;

002.b. such is hugely science-ejected;

002.c. therein, naturopathy is a huge, irrational fabrication.

CCNM's "Healing Power of Nature" Within Science Claim - An Internal Search:

here, I do an internal text search of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine [CCNM] per  >healing power of nature<:

001. these are the four results [2010-02-27]:

001.a. in "Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic (Teaching Clinic)"[vsc 2010-02-27]:

"the Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic (RSNC) [...] the teaching clinic of CCNM [...] naturopathic medicine is a distinct system of primary health care that addresses the root cause of illness or disease. Promoting wellness and prevention, naturopathic medicine harnesses science to unleash nature’s healing power."

001.b. in "Prospective Students"[vsc 2010-02-27]:

"CCNM brings new thinking, new research and new approaches to health care, harnessing science to unleash the healing power of nature."

Note: so, there's that typical science label upon HPN. 

001.c. in "Areas of Study"[vsc 2010-02-27]:

"naturopathic medicine is founded on the principle of healing through the cooperative power of nature [...] the principles underlying the practice of naturopathic medicine include [...#2] recognition and support of the inherent self-healing ability of the individual (the healing power of nature) [...] students will develop the skills to practice in a manner that exemplifies professionalism, strong ethics and a commitment to the principles of naturopathic medicine."

001.d. in "CCNM Celebrates 27th Convocation"[vsc 2010-02-27]:

"'the 94 graduates represent a critical addition to Canada’s healthcare resource,' says President CEO Bob Bernhardt. 'They are skilled in harnessing science to unleash the healing power of nature.  Each graduate has a minimum of seven years of post-secondary education culminating with an intensive and challenging four-year program of basic and clinical sciences and practice.'"

002. what CCNM doesn't reveal is that HPN is indeed science-ejected.

Note: naturopathy, 'harnessing absurdity.'