Connecticut's ND Gruber Claims Homeopathy as Biologically Active / Effective

here, I cite from a recent newspaper article whereby a New Canaan, Connecticut naturopath states that homeopathy is an effective allergy treatment [see 001., below]; and then from the web page of that ND whereby homeopathy is labeled effective [see 002., below]:

001. Melvin Mason reports in "New Canaan Physician Pushes Natural Allergy Cures" (2011-05-15)[saved 2011-05-15]:

"Dr. Gary Gruber [...] who also teaches naturopathic medicine at the University of Bridgeport [(his alma mater, actually)...] recommends [...] for people with longstanding allergy problems [...] homeopathic drops to desensitize the eyes."

Note: me thinks homeo. is being posed as specifically medicinal.

002. ND Gruber states in "Services" [vsc 2011-05-15]:

"I have effective therapies [...e.g.] homeopathic medicines are very small doses of natural substances that can stimulate the body's self-healing response without side effects. This gentle, effective system of medicine is based on the principle that 'like cures like'. Homeopathy supports healing and does not interfere with conventional or pharmaceutical treatments."

Note: so, there is a claim of biological activity and efficacy / medicinality.  But, we know homeopathy in fact is so inert that its recommendation is considered unethical [deceptive] and further research is unwarranted [it's implausible].  Yet, at the University of Bridgeport, naturopathy is STILL labeled a "health science" [vsc 2011-05-15] and within it is homeopathy [vsc 2011-05-15].

naturopathy -- truly the reversal of all values / a strange land of [false] educational and clinical commerce.

perhaps the article should be titled "New Canaan Metaphysician Pushes Magic Beans and Unicorn Tears as Allergy Cures."

Naturopathic Irrationality Microcosm: New York State's ND Lisanti and the Qi-eesy 'Nature' of Naturopathy...and Scientific Consensus

here, I cite from the web pages of New York State ND Lisanti, wherein science as a commerce-label is placed upon the science-ejected [see 001., below]; then, I cite from a recent source regarding that science-ejected and essential-to-naturopathy vitalistic concept [see 002., below]:

001. Lisanti, F. (ND NCNM) states [for his youtube site, click here]:

001.a. the claim that naturopathy is science in:

001.a.i. in "Definition of Naturopathic Medicine" [needs vsc]:

"naturopathic medicine is a [...] science [...] naturopathic medicine is distinguished by the principles upon which its practice is based. These principles are continually re-examined in the light of scientific advances. The techniques of naturopathic medicine include [...the] scientific and empirical [...NDs are] comprehensively trained in the science of natural healthcare."

Note: science, science, science, science.

001.a.ii. in "Naturopathic Medicine Clinic in Westchester, NY" [vsc 2010-07-30]:

"[in the video] naturopathic doctors cooperate with all other branches of medical science [...in the description] naturopathic medicine is distinguished by the principles upon which its practice is based. These principles are continually re-examined in the light of scientific advances."

Note: yes, that overarching claim that naturopathy is within medical science and filters its contents through scientific scrutiny!

001.a.iii. in "About Classical Chinese Medicine" [vsc 2010-07-30]:

"the time-honored science of classical Chinese medicine (CCM) [...] CCM remains firmly committed to its ancient roots. CCM is a science in its own right."

Note: science, science.

001.a.iv. in "IMS Frequently Asked Questions" [vsc 2010-07-30]:

"naturopathic medicine [...] incorporates scientific advances from medical disciplines throughout the world. Many of the individual therapies used in naturopathic medical practice have been scientifically validated [...] the academic training in medical sciences of naturopathic and conventional physicians is similar."

Note: science, science, science.

001.a.v. in "Does Naturopathic Medicine Work?" [vsc 2010-08-01]:

"does naturopathic medicine work effectively? Naturopathic medicine has its own unique body of knowledge [...] it also incorporates scientific advances [...] many of the individual therapies used in naturopathic medical practice have been scientifically validated especially in the areas of [etc....including] homeopathy, acupuncture [...] the trend is that those naturopathic methods which are tested in well-designed studies are validated."

Note:

001.a.vi. in "The History of Naturopathic Medicine" [vsc 2010-08-01]:

"the naturopathic profession is committed to ongoing scientific research and development [...per] modern scientific methods."

Note:

001.a.vii. in "Natural Allergy Relief" [vsc 2011-05-11],  "No Need to Be Sad When You Struggle With SAD" [vsc 2011-05-11],  "Stop Acne: Water + Diet + CCM + De-Stress = Naturopathic Remedy" [vsc 2011-05-11], "Trials of the Spine: Naturopathic Relief for Minor to Major Back Pain" [vsc 2011-05-10], "Preventing Prostate Pain" [vsc 2011-05-10], in "Infertility: Naturopathic and Acupuncture Approaches" [vsc 2011-05-11], "Naturopathic Medicine and Acupuncture for Headaches" [vsc 2011-05-10], "Experience 21st Century Healthcare, Integrating Cutting Edge Natural Science with Ageless Healing Arts" [vsc 2011-05-10], "Mind Your Metals: Natural Heavy Metal Detoxification" [vsc 2011-05-11]:

"[the following smarmy language] it's with the intention of inspiration and integrity that our highly trained doctor creates customized health plans that synergize the best of healing arts with contemporary natural medical science."

Note: many pages states this smarmyness.

001.a.viii. in "Growing by Knowing: Wheat Grass – WOW!" [vsc 2011-05-11]:

"a scientist named Charles Schnabel who was looking to perfect chicken’s health first discovered the nutritive powers of wheat grass in the 1930s."

Note: science

001.a.ix. in "Organic Foods and Children: Why Organic Matters the Most for Kids" [vsc 2011-05-11]:

"modern organic farming methods that include a wide basis of scientific knowledge and thousands of years of history and experience."

Note: science.

001.a.x. in "Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia" [vsc 2011-05-11]:

"scientific research indicates that tui na, Chinese massage, and movement therapies like qigong and yoga can reduce pain and improve symptoms in fibromyalgia patients."

Note: science.

001.a.xi. in "Therapies" [vsc 2011-05-11]:

"naturopathic treatments [...] this practice is the science, philosophy and art of disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention of illness, using natural therapies and medicines [...] the naturopathic approach to diet and nutrition has been validated in many scientifically based professional journals on nutrition and dietary sciences [...] scientific research is demonstrating that some plant substances have comparable effects to synthetic drugs in clinical situations [...] naturopathic doctors are extensively trained in the art and science of botanical medicine."

Note: more science, science, science, science.

001.a.xii. in "Natural Health and Healing and Your Child" [vsc 2011-05-11]:

"perhaps you are among this group, or maybe you are among the growing number of parents who are look to ancient and modern systems for natural healing as they are backed by scientific research."

Note: science.

001.b. the reality that naturopathy is based on the vitalistic / science-ejected:

001.b.i. in "Naturopathic Doctors" [vsc 2011-05-11]:

"in short, naturopathic doctors or NDs design treatments that work with your vital force [VF]."

Note: VF.  In short.

001.b.ii. in "Spring Liver Cleansing: The Basics" [vsc 2010-07-31, 2011-05-11]:

"a clean liver is advantageous for healthy regulation of your vital life force (qi) [VLF, Q] and blood as they flow through your body."

Note: VLF = Q.

001.b.iii. in "Cleansing the Liver for Spring" [vsc 2010-07-31]:

"a healthy liver is like a tree swaying in the wind. The tree is flexible because proper nutrients are flowing to all areas of its trunk and branches. If the tree is unhealthy, a strong wind will snap off the branches cut-off from the plant’s life force [LF]."

Note: LF.

001.b.iv. in "Acupuncture as an Alternative Therapy for Pain Management" [vsc 2010-07-31]:

"acupuncture was developed in China 3000 years ago to manage the flow of life force or qi [LF, Q] throughout the body."

Note: LF = Q

001.b.v. in "The History of Acupuncture" [vsc 2011-05-11]:

"acupuncture was and still is a major mode of treatment for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners. A direct translation from this early text describes acupuncture as putting holes in the body to regulate qi [Q...] what is qi? The literal translation of qi from Chinese means 'breath' just as our English word 'spirit' comes from the Latin 'spiritus' or 'breath.' Qi can be understood as your life force or vital energy [LF, VE]. You can imagine pathways of qi flowing through your body [...] qi operates like [...] water ways [...] the pathways where qi flows are called meridians [...] if qi cannot take its normal course, excess qi will accumulate at the impasse and other areas of your body will not receive the vitality needed to be well. Improper flow manifests as pain or sickness, be it a tummy ache or insomnia [...] acupuncture is used to regulate the flow of qi by inserting thin metal needles at specific points along the meridians where qi flows [...] information gathered during the diagnostic process will inform your acupuncturist where qi is imbalanced. Then, he or she will work along meridians where qi flows to problem area [...e.g.] placement strengthens the flow of qi to the kidney if it is deficient or to drains qi if there is excess [...] to remove blockages of energy [E] and to promote free flow [...] some patients say that they feel a pleasurable sensation when a desired point is located. We call this 'the arrival of the qi'."

Note: Q = LF = VE = E.  Kind of like the arrival of the Tooth Fairy.

 

001.c. tracing it back -- Lisanti has both an ND and an LAc from NCNM -- we can see that his alma mater, NCNM, is the source for this at-odds irrationality of the science-based science-ejected:

 

001.c.1. regarding naturopathy, science, and vitalism, NCNM states:

 

that naturopathy is science and contains nonscience, so: science subset naturopathy subset nonscience.  Wacko.

 

001.c.2. regarding TCM, science, and vitalism [spiritism] NCNM states:

 

is a kind of supernatural science per "the School of Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM) at NCNM [...is] committed to training clinicians capable of tapping the true power of this ancient yet timeless system, which is both a highly sophisticated medical science and a deeply spiritual art form."

 

002. what science says, outright regarding vitalism / supernaturalism:

 

002.a. first, a crowd-sourced product, Wikipedia's article "Supernatural":

 

"the supernatural or supranatural [...] is anything above or beyond what one holds to be natural or exists outside natural law and the observable universe. Science limits its explanations for phenomena to natural explanations, a process known as methodological naturalism, and cannot consider supernatural explanations, as they cannot be investigated empirically. To explain something using natural causes and excluding supernatural causes is to naturalize it. To explain something as resulting from supernatural causes is to supernaturalize it.  Supernatural themes are often associated with paranormal and occult ideas, suggesting the possibility of interaction with the supernatural by means of summoning or trance. In secular societies, religious miracles are typically perceived as supernatural claims, as are spells and curses, divination, and the afterlife. Characteristics for phenomena claimed as supernatural are anomaly, uniqueness, and uncontrollability. Thus, the conditions in which such phenomena are thought to manifest may not be reproducible for scientific examination. Supernatural phenomena are sometimes referred to as paranormal. The field of study dealing with the supernatural is sometimes called metaphysics or the occult."

Note: a nice home for naturopathy and TCM ideas.

002.b. Dawkins, R. (PhD{evolutionary biology} UO) states in "The Oxford Book of Modern Science Writing" (2008; ISBN 0199216800):

 

"what neither Mendel nor anyone else before 1953 knew was that genes themselves are digital, within themselves [...] life is the execution of programs written using a small digital alphabet in a single, universal machine language. This realization was the hammer blow that knocked the last nail in the coffin of vitalism and, by extension, of dualism. The hammer was wielded, with undisguised youthful relish, by James Watson and Francis Crick [p.030...] for me, the greatest achievement of Watson and Crick was to turn genetics from a branch of wet and squishy physiology into a branch of information technology, in the process slaying, as I suggested above, the ghost of vitalism [p.226]."

003. meanwhile:

 

naturopathy and TCM, particularly by way of NCNM, are stuck in the the archaic / premodern nontypification of knowledge that I 've termed "epistemic conflation."  

 

but, we know better -- we're better than such dunderheadedness.

'You Need to Detox with Homeopathic Drops' Because 'Thoughts and Emotions Generate Biochemical Toxins' - Gill, B. (ND NCNM)

here, I cite from a recent article [advertisement!] by ND Gill in the Nelson Daily that sounds like nonsense to me [see 001., below]:

001. Gill, B. (ND NCNM) of Nelson,  British Columbia, Canada states in "It’s Cleansing Time: A Column by Dr. Brenda Gill" [vsc 2011-05-13]:

"after three years of pre-medicine and four years of naturopathic medical school [...] Nelson naturopathic doctor Brenda Gill [...] graduated from NCNM [...and] is licensed by the ANPBC and is a member of the B.C. and Canadian Naturopathic Association in British Columbia [...and uses] nutrition, herbs, supplements, exercise therapy, homeopathy and physical medicine [...] it’s time to start thinking of a rejuvenating cleanse [...] to eliminate the accumulation of toxins that have gathered over the year. External toxicity can be acquired by breathing, eating or having physical contact [(really!)...with] chemicals in the air and water, electromagnetic radiation, on our food, using pharmaceutical drugs and other medications, eating refined, packaged, processed foods, as well as using stimulants and sedatives [(really!)...there's also] internal toxins  [...from] normal everyday functions of our cells [...and] microbes such as intestinal bacteria [...and] our thoughts and emotions also generate biochemical toxins [(oh really!!!)...] cleansing helps to prevent build-up of toxicity and degeneration [...] we detoxify through the respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary, skin, lymph, thought and spiritual systems [(oh really!!!)...] to clear toxins from our body [...including using] homeopathic detoxification drops [...] for those wishing to try a specific cleanse tailored to you, consider an appointment with Dr. Brenda Gill at 352-3150 [...] drbgill@netidea.com."

Note: hmmm.  Some thoughts: a) weird -- a whole list of scientifically actual systems, in terms of physiology, are listed and then tacked onto that list is the supernatural figmentatious, nonchalantly; we know homeopathic drops don't do anything; these ubiquitous toxins are a 'sectarian medical bogey-man' used to get clients in the door; NCNM's knowledge basis is wacko; this is an advertisement; BCNA and CAND are famous for labeling naturopathy "science-based" yet look at this nonsense like the homeopathy within naturopathy that contradicts that "science-based" label, as does this toxin phobia / paranoia / delusion.

Naturopathic Irrationality Microcosm: Ontario's ND Esposito and 'Scientific Science-Ejected' Commerce!

here, I cite from an invitation from Ontario, Canada's ND Esposito to 'get to know naturopathy' [see 001., below]; then, I share with you quite-the-irrationality of the naturopathic -- as I know it well -- a science label falsely placed upon the science-ejected and science-exterior and then used for commerce purposes as gleaned from the ND's web pages [see 002., below]:

001. the Lake Superior News columnist and naturopath Esposito, C. (ND CCNM) writes in "Naturopathic Medicine Week 2011" (2011-05-09) [saved 2011-05-09]:

"today marks the first day of Naturopathic Medicine Week [NMW...] naturopathic doctors across Canada hold free events to talk about their unique, more natural approach to health. The goal is to teach members of their community about natural medicine, health promotion and disease prevention [so get to know them!...] naturopathic doctors are regulated in Ontario, are highly trained primary care providers, are covered by most extended health insurance providers, promote health and address the root cause of disease using natural therapies."

Note: so, NMW. And teaching, as in 'get to know naturopathy'.  Yes, regulated and highly trained, and root cause.  What exactly is the context of that "root cause"?  See below, for there is a claimed context [science] and an actual context [the science-ejected falsely labeled science].

002. now, I'd like to highlight what ND Esposito has written on her own web pages, which I've archived and which are incompatible claims [science is not nonscience; something does not contain what it excludes]:

002.a. the overarching claim / commerce label that naturopathy and its contents is scientific [from my archive]:

002.a.i. in "FAQ: Naturopathic Medicine" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"naturopathic medicine [...] blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine [...and is a] science of disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention [...] the four year program incorporates over 4,500 hours of classroom training in basic medical science courses [and] clinical sciences [...] is naturopathic medicine scientific? Many naturopathic therapies [...] have been validated by scientific research [...] the research supporting naturopathic medicine continues to grow and incorporate new scientific findings [...] training during medical school [...includes] basic and clinical sciences [...] naturopathic physicians [...study] 224.50 [credits...] medical doctors [...study] 186 [the ND superscience claim!]."

Note:  yes, naturopathy blends.  But science isn't a blended kind of knowledge: science does not, for instance, contain the nonscientific -- as naturopathy irrationally claims it does.  And naturopathy claims to be more versed in science than actual medicine -- 'the ND superscience claim'.

002.a.ii. in "Complementary Alternative Medicine: What is Naturopathy?" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"naturopathic medicine [...] blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine [...it's a] science of disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention."

Note: science, science.

002.a.iii. in "Doctor Oath: Naturopathic Doctor's Oath" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"I dedicate myself to the service of humanity as a practitioner of the art and science of naturopathic medicine."

Note: how is humanity served by falsehood?  This same oath obligates naturopaths to vitalism and supernaturalism, and a claim that such is science [the 'ND sectarian creed'].

002.a.iv. in "Energy Medicine" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"energy medicine is the science and the art of optimizing your energies to help your body and mind function at their best."

Note: well, we know that "energy" here is not being used in the scientific science.  Here, it is being misappropriated as a coding for vitalism and spiritism.

002.a.v. in "Homeopathic Consult" [vsc 2011-01-12]:

"one of the most common criticisms of homeopathy is that it is not scientific. However, more and more research continues to supports its efficacy."

Note: no, actually.  This is the exact opposite of what is actually happening.  Naturopathy: the reversal of all values.

002.a.vi. in "Lose Weight Permanently" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"Dr. Esposito offers a cutting edge, scientific approach to weight loss."

Note: more science claimed. 

002.b. the reality that naturopathy and its contents is based upon vitalism [from my archives]:

002.b.i. in "Acupuncture for Neck Pain" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"in acupuncture theory, pain is said to be caused by the stagnation of either qi (energy or life force) [Q = E = LF...] pain that is due to qi stagnation [...] it has the unique ability to regulate the circulation of qi [...] acupuncture works by regulating the flow of qi in meridians [...] that distribute qi through the body [...] the qi tends to get stuck around the point bladder 10 at the nape of the neck."

Note: so, Q = E = LF.

002.b.ii. in "Constitutional Hydrotherapy" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"it is strengthening and healing to the digestive system, helps to normalize circulation, soothes the nervous system, stimulates eliminative and detoxifying processes, and stimulates the vital force [VF]."

Note: ah, ye auld VF.

002.b.iii. in "Acupuncture For PTSD" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"acupuncture works by regulating the flow of qi or life force [Q=LF] in the body. In the case of PTSD, there is often what is called a qi wild condition, in which one's life force / vital energy [LF=VE] have become chaotic, disturbed, or grossly inconsistent. Acupuncture is a powerful way to settle such energetic [E] disturbances and return the body and mind to a state of balance and peace."

Note: so, Q = LF = VE = E.

002.b.iv. in "Acupuncture For Depression" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"acupuncture works by balancing the flow of qi, or internal life force [Q = ILF], in the body. Depression is typically a byproduct of weak qi in the heart or kidneys."

Note: so, Q = ILF.

002.b.v.in "Acupuncture For Stress Management" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"perhaps one of the last truly holistic forms of healthcare remaining on the planet, acupuncture works with the qi (life force) of the body in order to induce a variety of therapeutic effects."

Note: so, Q = LF.

002.b.vi. in "Acupuncture For Immune Health" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"acupuncture works by regulating the flow of qi (life force) [Q = LF] through 14 major meridians on the body. Immune weakness is typically due to deficient qi of the lungs and spleen. When these organs are weak, symptoms such as allergies, diarrhea, fatigue, cough, and recurring infections are commonplace. For these issues, acupuncture points are chosen on the lung and spleen meridians to supplement the qi, thereby strengthening immune function."

Note: so, Q = LF.

002.b.vii. in "Holistic Remedies: The Modalities of Naturopathic Medicine" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"traditional Chinese medicine: Asian medicine is based on the principle of balancing the body's vital energy or chi [VE = C]. The chi of the body is connected in meridians or channels running just under the skin. Energy [E] is balanced through the use of herbs and acupuncture."

Note: so, VE = C = E.

002.b.viii. in "Acupuncture For Fatigue" [vsc 2011-01-13]:

"the majority of patients who complain of fatigue suffer from a deficiency of vital energy (qi) [VE = Q]. Qi is the basic energy [BE] that creates optimal physiological and neurological function. Aside from fatigue, other signs of qi deficiency are diarrhea, pallor, easy bruising, excessive sleep, scanty menses or amenorrhea, frequent urination, low libido, and shortness of breath."

Note: ah, those qi magic beans / unicorn tears.  In Ontario, traditional Chinese medicine is within a naturopathy practitioner's naturopathy scope.  So, VE = Q = BE.

003. overall note:

so, when is what is science-ejected -- a vitalism root-cause figmentation / archaicism codified into North American naturopathy [as supernaturalism is] -- falsely claimed as scientific [as suepernaturalism is]?

Naturopathyland, of course, which to me is regulated nonsense and a kind of commerce that, when licensed / regulated, leaves the consumer with little recourse to remedy the false labels that naturopaths use in their commerce.

naturopathy's supernaturalism is usually fruit I consider too low-hanging to bother blogging about.  Yet, it too is claimed as within "science".  Searching ND Esposito's site with this google.com web search parameter "site:natural-healing-clinic.com spirit" [without the exterior quotes] reveals these pages [all vsc 2011-05-11]:

"Menopause";

and her co-written ebook "How to Thrive in the Modern World: A Layperson's Guide to Chinese Medicine" where we're told "as explained within this e-book, Asian medicine is based on the principle of balancing the body's vital energy or chi [...] the main point when trying to grasp the concept of qi is to consider the possibility that there is an immaterial level of reality that Western science cannot quantify or categorize [...yet, contradictorily] Eastern cultures have long understood what Western science is finally beginning to accept" and that is quite the microcosm of the 'science that ain't science'.

Homeopathy CC Nonsense as a Gateway to Naturopathy ND Nonsense: Northern Virginia Community College and ND Johnson's June Homeopathy Course

here, I cite from an article promoting the community college homeopathy class of an ND:

Nevin Martell reports for expressnightout.com in "Alternate Course: Learning Homeopathy at NVCC" (2011-05-09):

"'a lot of people know the word homeopathy, but they don't know what it is [...] it's based on the principle that like cures like [sympathetic magic!...] that means a homeopath tries to find a substance that produces similar symptoms in a healthy person that are present in a sick person' [which has no scientific support, actually, by the way!...] says Christopher Johnson, ND [SCNM...] who practices at Thrive Naturopathic in Alexandria [...it's a] 200-year-old system of medicine was founded by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann [somehow its antiquity supports it?...] newcomers to this concept can gain a wider understanding of this alternative medicine at Johnson's 'Intro to Homeopathy' class at the Alexandria campus of Northern Virginia Community College [...] 'Intro to Homeopathy' program ($129) starts June 6 and runs from 7 to 9 p.m. Register at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus (3001 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria; 703-323-3000, nvcc.edu) [...] Johnson hopes that the class helps participants decide whether they would like to continue on to naturopathic school to get an ND themselves."

Note: naturopathic licensure requires homeopathy on their 'step 2' part, and falsely labels homeopathy "science" -- when it is indeed science-ejected.

Smashing! Abertay University's Dr. Kevin Smith in The Courier -- Homeopathy is "Ethically Unacceptable", Not "Genuine Medicine" and Based on "False Beliefs"

The Courier reports in "Abertay Lecturer Dr Kevin Smith Calls Homeopathy 'Ethically Unacceptable'" (2011-05-09):

"Dr. Kevin Smith [...] a senior lecturer specialising in genetics and bioethics [...at] Abertay University [which is in Dundee, Scotland...] has branded homeopathy 'ethically unacceptable' and called for it to be rejected by healthcare professionals [hear, hear...] writing in the journal Bioethics [here's the abstract...regarding] the positive and negative features of homeopathy from an ethical perspective [...] he wrote 'homeopathic preparations are so diluted that they contain no significant amounts of active ingredients, and thus can have no effect on the patient's body. Those who believe it works either do not understand the science or are simply deluded. Homeopathy is not ethically neutral — it is wasteful and potentially dangerous' [...] the potential benefits included its non-invasiveness, cost-effectiveness and the placebo effect — in which a patient's condition improves even though they have been given no genuine medicine. The negative effects were patients' failure to seek effective healthcare, wastage of resources, promulgation of false beliefs and a weakening of commitment to scientific medicine [...] in his biography on Abertay's website, Dr Smith describes himself as 'committed to the principles of science-based medicine, and strongly opposed to pseudoscience and quackery' [hear, hear]."

Note: AU also has the article up, here.  Meanwhile, North American naturopathy labels homeopathy a "clinical science".

my relatives, who are from Scotland and in Scotland, might say: "smashing!"

we'll have to forgive The Courier and Dr. Smith for spelling pseudo wrong in both the newspaper article and on his bio. page, respectively -- I misspell all the time.

and just in case my label on this post of "sectarian" as in "unethical sectarian pseudoscience" causes confusion in Scotland particularly, I'm not using that label in terms of Scotland's / North Ireland's religious bigotries / strifes [and other places in the world].

I'm referring to a usage I've gleaned from a very old edition of Popular Science Monthly from 1889:

"science is never sectarian; philosophy is never sectarian.  Sectarian teaching begins when you ask a man or a child to assume what can not be proved, for the sake of keeping within the dogmatic lines that fence round some particular creed."

in this case, homeopathy is a form of sectarian medicine: dogma / creed based, not only not proved but scientifically rejected.

Naturopathic Medicine Week 2011: CAND Absurdity Marches On

here, I cite from a Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors [CAND] press release for Naturopathic Medicine Week 2011 [NMW; see 001., below]:

001. CAND states:

001.a. in "Naturopathic Medicine Week" [vsc 2011-05-07]:

"free events [will be] held across Canada May 9-15. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) will be hanging up their lab coats during Naturopathic Medicine Week to teach members of the community about natural medicine, health promotion and disease prevention. During the week of May 9-15, 2011, NDs across Canada will be conducting free events [...] click on a province below for event listings."

Note: CAND is famous, in my mind, for labeling naturopathy "science based" in two separate Youtube videos that have been up for a few years here and here on their Youtube channel.

001.b. in the 2011 Youtube video "What is a Qualified Naturopathic Doctor and How can I Locate One?" [vsc 2011-05-07]:

"I'm doctor Mubina Jiwa [(ND CCNM) bio. here and here] and I'm a qualified naturopathic doctor practicing in Toronto [...] a qualified naturopathic doctor [...has studied at ND school] medical and clinical sciences similar to that of medical doctors [...and are licensed through their] naturopathic physicians' licensing examinations or NPLEX [...in order to practice] naturopathic medicine."

Note: what's so interesting about that NPLEX is that it labels homeopathy "clinical science", which it is NOT.

you can also find naturopathy's science-ejected vitalism -- as "vital force" and "chi" -- and supernaturalism -- as "spirit" and "spiritual" -- that defines CAND naturopathy here. Also notice there that they list the ND program at National University of Health Sciences and that is a gross misrepresentation of the naturopathic, overall: naturopathy is primarily NOT SCIENCE or science-based.

NDs are qualified by way of irrationality and absurdity, and the absurdity known as naturopathy marches on.

NYANP Reminds Me That May 2011 is Naturopathy Awareness Month [and here is their proposed bill and a few absurd labels from the NYANP President]

here, I cite from emails NYANP sent me recently [see 001., below]; then from the bill up in Albany that NYANP is quite invested in [see 002., below]; and finally some labels naturopaths in NY use to promote their commerce [see 003., below]:

001. I received directly by email:

001.a. this announcement:

"welcome to naturopathic medicine awareness month [...a] statewide event throughout May 2011 [...] events [will be] posted at www.nyanp.org [...they'll be a] legislative update flyer [...and] press releases will be going out to the media [...plus] coaching [for NDs] on giving lectures [...and the] lobby day for licensing NDs is May 17th in Albany, NY."

Note: incidentally, NYANP states in their web page "About" [vsc 2011-05-01]:

"our mission [...] we want to make it possible for all New Yorkers to benefit from naturopathic medicine, and to pass state legislation to license naturopathic doctors. The vision of the NYANP is to advance access to and awareness of naturopathic medicine in NY."

Note: it has long been my position -- after more than a decade of study and observation -- that licensure of naturopathy results in "licensed falsehood" [my invented term; like 'legal illegality'], and it is precisely the mission of this blog to unpeel naturopathy's camouflage and show its 'irrational and absurd nature' [and I know that is a somewhat agonizing pun, or sorts].

001.b. and this longer announcement [my comments are in bold]:

"spring into naturopathic medicine awareness month!";

oh lets get REALLY aware!

"what is a naturopathic doctor? Naturopathic doctors receive medical training but instead of treating disease, they focus on wellness [...]";

I disagree with the label "medical."  I'd say they get "naturopathic" training.  And this idea of focusing on wellness but practicing medicine is like of like taking a car with a flat tire to a garage and the technician only looks at the good tires -- it's stupid, ideological, fluff, nebulous.

"naturopathic doctors (NDs) receive doctorate-level training at federally accredited naturopathic medical schools in order to be licensed to provide services that include physical exams, lab testing and naturopathic therapies [such as homeopathy and colon irrigation...] NDs fill a niche in the healthcare system because they specialize in the safe and effective use of natural therapies AND preventive medicine [...]";

hmmm.  I went to one of those doctoral-level federally-accredited schools for four years and found it to be a sectarian fraud, in sum, at least from my experience.  Once licensed, NDs practice such falsely-labeled-as-effective [and science-based] therapies as homeopathy and colon irrigation.  Labeling what is scientifically discarded falsely as science, that's naturopathy's niche!  And labeling an intervention "natural" is intellectually dishonest, in sum: a thought-stopping ideological place-filler.  And they love to pose "prevention"...what what use is that label if science and nonscience are EQUATED within naturopathyland?  Example: naturopathy's North American board exam labels the hugely science-ejected homeopathic as "clinical science".  That's ethically repugnant.  They even label the supernatural as within science.

"why raise awareness in NY? Naturopathic doctors are still not licensed to practice in New York. Thousands of people who want access to naturopathic care have to travel across state borders to seek naturopathic treatment, which means that millions of dollars are going out of state due to lack of naturopathic licensure. Not only that, but billions of dollars are going to treat chronic health issues (diabetes and heart disease) that NDs are specifically trained to prevent [...]";

I don't know of ANYTHING specifically naturopathic that saves "billions" of dollars regarding those two diseases.  That's insane.  Anything lifestyle-wise that positively affects such is ALREADY being practiced in the regular healthcare system.  What are the magic beans / unicorn tears that the regular system has missed?  Empty homeopathy pills, herbal remedies and supplements coincidentally dispensed by the NDs, acupuncture parlor tricks, craniosacral therapy mindfucking?

"what will licensure do? [...] there is a tremendous shortage of primary care physicians. Naturopathic medical doctors, once licensed, would help to fill that void [...]";

because I want a PCP who falsely places what's science-ejected as within science.

"what is happening with the licensure bill? The bill to license NDs in NY (S1803/A1937) could be passed by the Senate and Assembly Higher Education Committees this month or next [...and NYANP is promoting events by NDs] Donielle Wilson, [...] Patricia Pimentel [...] Jaclyn Chasse [...] Peter Bongiorno."

Overall note: licensure, licensure, licensure.  So they can have their licensed falsehood!  Lets let NDs legally falsely label homeopathy [the science-ejected, supernatural and kind] a clinical science and engaging in commerce under those false labels. 

002. the New York State Assembly:

002.a. lists these three bills regarding naturopathy (2011-05-01):

"A01937 - regulates the practice of naturopathic medicine;

A03057 - provides for the regulation of the practice of naturopathic medicine and provides for the licensure of naturopathic physicians;

S01803 - regulates the practice of naturopathic medicine."

002.b. A01937-A03057 / S01803 states [unified]:

"in order to protect the public health, safety and welfare of  the citizens who desire naturopathic care, the legislature finds it is necessary to regulate the practice of  naturopathy by providing licensure for qualified practitioners [...]";

I call bullshit regarding this posed concern for the public.  In order to be regulated, licensed and qualified, a naturopath must maintain the absurd position that science and nonscience are the same thing, leading to such wacko positions as their claim that homeopathy is powerful and efficacious.

"it is the legislature's intent that only practitioners who meet and maintain standards of competence are recognized by the public as licensed naturopaths [...per] 'doctor of naturopathy', 'doctor of naturopathic medicine' or  its  abbreviation,  'ND',  'naturopath', 'naturopathic doctor'  or  'licensed naturopath' [...]";

who decides those standards?  The AANP-AANMC-CAND apparatus.  Now, that organization claims that what is hugely science-ejected and nonsensical survives scientific scrutiny and is even "clinical science".  When is competence incompetence?  You got it.

"naturopathic doctors are formally educated [...] naturopaths serve the public as experts [...]";

yes they are formally educated into a worldview that is nonsensical: when 'science is the same as non-science' and someone is calling that approach expert, run for the hills.

"the practice of the profession ['professional' claim] of naturopathy utilizes education and natural  therapies to  support and stimulate a patient's intrinsic self-healing process [coded vitalism...]";

ah, the 'professions' claim and the coded vitalism.  But what kind of profession HIDES its fundamental context?

"[ND / NMD's must] pass an examination that meets nationally recognized test  development standards and test competencies for naturopathic doctors satisfactory to the board and in accordance with the commissioner's regulations [...]";

an examination that quite falsely labels homeopathy "clinical science" which the bill mentions per "therapies used  by  naturopathic  doctors, including, but not limited to homeopathic remedies."

"a state board for naturopathy shall be appointed by the board of regents on the recommendation of the commissioner  for  the purpose of assisting the board of regents and the department on matters of licensing and regulation. The  board  shall  be composed  of  at least six licensed members from the profession licensed pursuant to this article and at least two public representatives who do not  hold interests in the organization, financing, or delivery of natu ropathic services and one licensed physician who is either a doctor of medicine or a doctor of osteopathy [...]";

they shall regulate themselves like the nonsensical OBNM.

Note: notice, overall with this bill, that their actual, science-ejected, sectarian vitalism, teleology, and supernaturalism that defines naturopathy is not communicated transparently.  So, in the end, subterfuge and opacity are written-in to the NYS law, as it is written-in to the principles of naturopathy and a naturopathic education.  Once passed, naturopaths are protected by a law that allows licensed falsehoods.

003. some of the labels used by NYANP President ND Wilson as she engages in commerce:

003.a. Wilson, D. (ND Bastyr) states:

003.a1. in "Frequently Asked Questions" [vsc 2011-05-05]:

"naturopathic doctors base their practice on six timeless principles founded on medical tradition and scientific evidence: [#]1. Let nature heal. Our bodies have such a powerful, innate instinct for self-healing. By finding and removing the barriers to this self-healing—such as poor diet or unhealthy habits—naturopathic doctors can nurture this process [coded vitalism...] naturopathic doctors are trained as primary care providers. They receive a doctorate in naturopathic medicine after graduating from one of five accredited naturopathic medical schools in North America. The four or five year naturopathic medical education includes study of the biological sciences."

003.a2. in "Natural Therapies for Menopause" [vsc 2011-05-05]:

"naturopathic physicians are experts in the use of natural therapies [...] with four years of postgraduate education in the biological sciences [...] appropriate natural therapies based on scientific evidence are then recommended."

003.a3. in "Finding Real Answers to Health Challenges" [vsc 2011-05-05]:

"my naturopath actually took the scientific approach."

003.a4. in "Empowering Patients with Chronic Health Issues - Naturally" [vsc 2011-05-05]:

"naturopathic medicine is a system of healing that involves a scientific approach to the body."

003.a5. in "Letter from Doctor Doni" [vsc 2011-05-05]:

"I help patients like you address health issues by developing a caring partnership of natural therapies and well-living practices such as nutrition, gentle exercise, reducing stress, herbal healing, homeopathy, vitamins and nutrients.  This allows you to recognize the innate healing power of your own body [coded vitalism].]"

Note: science, science, science and of course coded vitalism.  That's empowerment.  Off the bat let me say this about a Bastyr degree: just look at their description in the AANP's journal: "a nonprofit, private university, Bastyr promotes a curriculum founded in science-based natural medicine [science-basis claim...] with an emphasis on the intrinsic relationship between mind, body, spirit [supernaturalism], and nature [coded vitalism]" [2010-09-01, vsc 2011-05-05].It's a complete muddle of types of knowledge [including the supernatural and the science-ejected], falsely labeled as the discrete knowledge-kind known as science / science-based.  So, take the above ND's "science" claims not-so-seriously, as naturopathy's science is also, absurdly, nonscience.

Arizona's NMD Berkner Defines Naturopathy in the Typical Manner

here, I cite from an article written by NMD Berkner in the San Tan Valley Today describing naturopathy [see 001., below]; then, from her web pages detailing naturopathy's science-ejected homeopathy and vitalism [see 002., below]:

001. Berkner, K. (NMD SCNM 2009) states in "Naturopathic Medicine Defined" [vsc 2011-05-04]:

"naturopathic physicians [...] blend the best of modern medical science and traditional natural medical approaches [...they] base their practice on six timeless principles founded on medical tradition and scientific evidence [...] naturopathic medicine is based on the belief that the human body has an innate healing ability [...] their bodies’ ability to ward off and combat disease [coded vitalism...#1] let nature heal. Our bodies have a powerful, innate instinct for self-healing. By finding and removing, the barriers to this self-healing [...] naturopathic physicians can nurture this process [...] the body’s efforts to self-heal [coded vitalism...] they use [...amongst other things] homeopathy [...] naturopathic medicine believes that doctors must be educators [...] if you are ready to make a change for the best, call Dr. Berkner at 480-296-6173."

Note: oh the science claim, the vitalism that dare not speak its name, the posed 'educator' ethos.  That's the typical manner.

002. NMD Berkner states in:

002.a. "Modalities" [vsc 2011-05-04]:

"homeopathy is a form of therapy intended to stimulate an individual's internal healing process [coded vitalism] with the help of specially prepared and highly diluted substances from plants, minerals, and animals. Remedies match the physical, mental and emotional state of the patient.  We utilize homeopathics to treat acute (sudden) illnesses and longer standing chronic physical and mental illnesses [...] acupuncture is based on the belief that health is determined by the balanced flow of vital energy (qi) through the meridians of the body. By restoring proper flow of qi, we can restore balance to the system.  By utilizing small acupuncture needles or the use of our laser we can stimulate certain points on the body to optimize and support the flow."

Note: oh how they love homeopathy, acupuncture and vitalism -- magic beans and unicorn tears.

002.b. "Services" [vsc 2011-05-04]:

"my goal is to provide patients of all ages with unsurpassed naturopathic care through the use of nontoxic, natural and effective treatments without harmful side effects [...] I excel in treating: weight loss, back pain, headache, influenza/colds, allergies, digestive Problems, diabetes, post hospital burn recovery, infection, ear, nose, and throat ailments, hypertension/ hgh blood pressure, moking cessation, asthma, anemia."

Note: that's quite a claim of efficacy and what can be effected.  How magic beans and unicorn tears get you there, I've no clue.

"The Run" USA 2011, Naturopathy's False Science Claim, and Its Truly Science-Ejected Vitalistic Absurdity

here, I cite from the web page for the 'PR stunt' that North American naturopathy has planned beginning 74 days from now [see 001., below]:

001. The Run states in "What is Naturopathic Medicine?" [vsc 2011-05-04]:

"naturopathic medicine [NM] represents the 'vitalistic' tradition [VT] of medicine in our Western world.  That is, it treats disease through the stimulation, increase, and support of the person’s inherent healing capacity [PIHC].  These treatments are chosen to work with the patient’s vital force [VF], respecting the natural healing processes of nature [NHPN...] the following principles make naturopathic medicine different from all other medical approaches: [#1] first do no harm, primum no nocere: illness is a purposeful [teleological!] process of the organism. The process of healing includes the generation of symptoms which are, in fact, an expression of the life force [LF] attempting to heal itself.  Therapeutic actions should be complementary to and synergistic with this healing process [THP].  The physician’s actions can support or antagonize the actions of the vis mediatrix naturae,  the healing power of nature [VMN-HPN...#2] the healing power of nature, vis mediatrix [sp., medicatrix] naturae [VMN-HPN]: the body has an inherent ability to establish, maintain, and restore health.  The healing process is ordered and intelligent [teleological!];  nature heals through the response of the life force [LF].  The physician’s role is to facilitate this process [TP...this] naturopathic philosophy serves as the basis for naturopathic practice [...] these are based on the observation of health and disease.  This observation process involves the use of modern scientific methodologies and language [a FALSE and ABSURD claim that science-eject vitalism SURVIVES scientific scrutiny as 'objective scientific fact' -- the scientifically observed science ejected is THE BASIS of naturopathy]."

Note: so, NM = VT = PIHC = VF = NHPN = LF = THP = VMN-HPN = LF = TP.  By the way, the page states that within naturoapthy is homeopathy and that homeopathy is "powerful" and "effective" and that for NDs / NMDs "homeopathy is a central part of our comprehensive training".  Sponsors include: supplement companies, the Washington Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the National College of Natural Medicine, the University of Bridgeport, Bastyr University, and American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and Naturopathic Doctor News and Review.

Canada's ND Pincott Labels Naturopathy and Homeopathy "Science-Based" This 2011 Naturopathy Awareness Week

Pincott, I. (ND NCNM) states in "2011 is lucky 13 for Naturopathic Medicine Week" (2011-05-03)[vsc 2011-05-03]:

"this year marks the 13th year that Naturopathic Medicine Week (NMW) has been proclaimed in Canada [...] over the course of the week naturopathic doctors across Canada will be providing open house clinic hours as well as public workshops and lectures [...] to educate the public [...] naturopathic physicians (ND’s) are primary health care providers with seven to eight years of post secondary education who practice safe, effective, science-based natural health care [...] ND's diagnose, treat and prevent disease using natural therapies including [...] homeopathy [...] across Canada there are over 1,600 registered ND's and in B.C. there are 376 practicing ND's. ND’s take the time to educate their patients [...] the ND, as educator [...] sift[s] the wheat from the chaff when the media paint a negative view of natural therapies [...] naturopathic medicine week is to help educate the public about the extensive expertise of naturopathic physicians in their role as coach in helping people achieve optimal health and preventing chronic disease [...] Dr. Ingrid Pincott, naturopathic physician, has been practicing since 1985 and can be reached at 250-286-3655 or www.DrPincott.com [...also see] www.cand.ca [...and] www.bcna.ca."

Note: I HUGELY disagree with the science label that here has been placed on what is hugely not science, homeopathy.  But, this is naturopathyland, where false labels and commerce go hand in hand.  So, when is what isn't science science?   And when is educating miseducating?  You got it.

California's NMD Stengler Wrongly Claims Mistletoe is a "Proven" Treatment for Cancer and Other Illnesses

here, I quote from a recent blog post by NMD Stengler promoting mistletoe extract as quite-the-panacea [001., below]; then, from an NIH evaluation of the herbal extract he's promoting [see 002., below]; finally, I contextualize naturopathy by way of NMD Stengler's alma mater, NCNM [see 003., below]:

001. Stengler, M. (NMD NCNM) states in "Proven Natural Treatment For Cancer" (2011-04-29)[saved 2011-04-30 from his blog; this was also emailed to me directly by NMD Stengler]:

"there is a proven natural treatment to recommend to the approximately 12 million people in the US who currently have cancer.  I’m talking about an extract made from European mistletoe [...] it is widely used in Europe [...and] has been used in medicine for centuries.  It had [sp., has] multidimensional uses, including treat­ing headache, menstrual symptoms, infertility and arthritis [...] one of the most studied formulations is Iscador [...and] mistletoe extract [ME] is most often used in conjunction with standard cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and/or radiation. It has been found to increase the ef­fectiveness of, and reduce the side effects from, conventional therapies and to improve patients’ immunity and quality of life, including vitality, sleep and appetite.  I regularly prescribe mistletoe extract to my patients to help those with cancer battle the disease and as a post cancer treatment [...] in this country, injectable mistletoe is available as a prescription.  Any licensed primary care doctor can order and prescribe it.  It costs about $200 a month and is not covered by insurance."

Note: so, we have a ringing endorsement of what appears to be quite-the-panacea.  The claim is that ME is casually prescribed, has efficacy and therefore warrants its cost, and implied is that its benefit is worth its risk.

002. the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health states in "Mistletoe Extracts":

"mistletoe is a semiparasitic plant [...and] is one of the most widely studied complementary and alternative medicine therapies in people with cancer [...it] has been shown to kill cancer cells in the laboratory [in vitro] and to affect the immune system [in vivo]. However, there is no evidence that mistletoe's effects on the immune system help the body fight cancer [...] extracts are usually given by injection under the skin or, less often, into a vein, into the pleural cavity, or into the tumor [...] animal studies have suggested that mistletoe may be useful in decreasing the side effects of standard anticancer therapy, such as chemotherapy and radiation [...] more than 30 human studies using mistletoe to treat cancer have been done since the early 1960s, but major weaknesses in many of these have raised doubts about their findings [...] very few harmful side effects have been reported from the use of mistletoe extract [...] the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved mistletoe as a treatment for cancer or any other medical condition [...] the FDA does not allow injectable mistletoe to be imported, sold, or used except for clinical research."

Note: when is what has been widely studied as ineffective as a cancer therapy "proven" as a cancer therapy?  Naturopathyland, of course.  When is crap research not even in human subjects inappropriately extended?  Ditto.   When are unapproved treatments that politely could be called worthless and experimental used casually / day-to-day without likely full / accurate disclosure of context?  You got it.  So, if the form of mistletoe that is being given by NMD Stengler is parenteral [not oral], something seriously wrong is being done, in my opinion -- if the patient is not consenting to 'an approved strange human experimentation with a rather controlled unpromising compound conforming to all human-rights accords for such a context'. I don't see anything in NMD Stenger's post about the context of his ME treatments being "clinical research."  So, I don't think it is accurate for NMD Stengler to say "any licensed primary care doctor can order and prescribe it."  If the mistletoe is being given orally, well from what I understand, then none of these supposedly supporting preliminary studies either in vitro or parenterally in vivo matter because very few complex organic compounds survive the gut to be absorbed, and then can survive the liver's screening of absorbed complex compounds etc.  How does "proven" occur from a collective consensus of "no evidence"?  Well, lets look to Oregon's NCNM, the alma mater of NMD Stengler, and OBNM the overseeing naturopathy board for that state.

003. we're told:

003.a. by NCNM in "National College of Natural Medicine: Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, Master of Science in Oriental Medicine":

"naturopathic medicine is a science-based, vitalistic philosophy and practice rooted in the principle of vis medicatrix naturae, the healing power of nature [HPN-VMN...] students pursue a vitalistically grounded and rigorous academic clinical program."

Note: so the essential basis of naturopathy is science-ejected nonsense.

003.b. by the State of Oregon in "Naturopathy":

"the practice of naturopathic medicine emerges from six underlying principles of healing [...] based on the objective observation of the nature of health and disease, and are continually reexamined in light of scientific analysis. It is these principles that distinguish the profession from other medical approaches [...#1] the healing power of nature / vis medicatrix naturae [...] the healing process is ordered and intelligent; nature heals through the response of the life force [...] illness is a purposeful process of the organism.  The process of healing includes the generation of symptoms, which are, in fact, an expression of the life force attempting to heal itself."

Note: so, what is claimed is that nonsensical vitalism / HPN-VMN survives scientific scrutiny / is science-based.  In fact it does not / is not.  Nonsense is not sense. Vitalism is science-ejected, and has been for like a century.  That's the INSANITY of naturopathy.  So, how is NMD Stengler able to reverse the position of mistletoe in regards to a false label of "proven" cancer therapy?  The same way naturopathy reverses the position of the nonscientific and the scientific: simply state that whatever-is-wanted-to-be-science is within science, no matter.  And, of course, this is labeled by naturopathy as professional.

004. what I've asked NMD Stengler at his blog:

"The National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health states in Mistletoe Extracts 'the FDA does not allow injectable mistletoe to be imported, sold, or used except for clinical research.'  And you above state: 'I regularly prescribe mistletoe extract to my patients—to help those with cancer battle the disease and as a post cancer treatment [...] in this country, injectable mistletoe is available as a prescription.  Any licensed primary care doctor can or­der and prescribe it.  It costs about $200 a month and is not covered by insurance.'

Is your use of mistletoe of a early-research context, a human-experimentation context, or of a well-established therapeutic context?

Thanks, -r.c."

Note: no response so far.