Changelog 2012-05-20 and ND Video

here, I summarize this week's additions to my public naturopathy database.  I also link to an ND's video each changelog, quote from, and tag the video in some detail:

001. added:

the vitalism of:

ND Cressman, A.;

ND Cressman, C. & ND Hirji;

to Appendix B.05.i.bbbb.;

ND Jangaard, H., ND Jangaard, R.;

ND Jones, D.D.

to Appendix B.05.i.c.04.;

the science claims of:

ND Aberle & ND Oppitz;
ND Andre; 

ND Aberdour & ND Lin;

ND Andrews, S.;

ND Arbour; ND Aresco; 

ND Abrams, M.; ND Au & ND Barker;

ND Ayoubzadeh; ND Ashney, 

ND Axelrod, ND Hudson, 

ND Meager-Benson, ND Raydon, ND Skinner

to Appendix I.05.a.;

ND Fabbro; 

ND Fabricius;

ND Farshchian and NDYoung;

ND FitzGerald, ND Hrkal, 

ND Markou, ND Silva

to Appendix I.05.e.;

ND Greenspan, J.; 

ND Gagliardi; ND Gerber;

ND Grieder; ND Gryner [candidate];

to Appendix I.05.f.;

ND Wright;
ND Wong, B.;
ND Weeks;
ND Takashima; 
to Appendix I.05.p.;

ND Bolliger, ND Leong, ND Sidhu, ND Somody;
ND Bothma;
to Appendix I.05.b.;

the 'homeopathy is science-ejected' claim of:

the Vancouver Sun 

to Appendix K.07.;

002. video of the week link [not to pun]:

[special guest!] Senator Tom Harkin [who is not an ND] states in "Naturopathic Physicians Provide Wellness to Americans" [vsc 2012-05-17; my comments are in unquoted bold]:

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#senatorkarkin #pseudoscienceproponentry #naturopathic #naturopathy #reversalofvalues

.

"I'm Senator Tom Harkin [...speaking about] AANP's federal legislative initiative [this 2012...whereby NDs] educate your members of Congress on the benefits of naturopathic medicine for both our physical health and our fiscal health [...]";

Harkin is regarded as quite the defender of the supplement industry and its loopholes.  Now, NDs have a tenet 'doctor as teacher.'  But, in order to educate you have to be knowledgeable.  What do NDs know?  Well, absurdly, they claim that science-ejected ideas are scientific when hugely / patently they are not.  They miseducate after being miseducated.  And I wonder, how does a system based on a metaphysical figmentation benefit us PHYSICALLY, and if their treatments are bogus [like colonics, homeopathy, acupuncture, iridology, and the like]  How does that benefit us fiscally?  It benefits them, for sure.

"the Affordable Care Act includes my amendment [...] a nondiscrimination clause to protect naturopathic physicians regarding participation in a health plan [...] this will insure that insurance companies cannot exclude NDs and other allied health professionals from practicing under the capacity of their training and licensure [...]";

and so, nonsense [NDs education, training, claims] gets sheltered.  We've seen this in Oregon, wherein NDs legislated FALSEHOOD.

"as naturopathic physicians know all to well, we don't have a healthcare system in America, we have a sick care system [...] we spend peanuts on prevention.  This is absurd and it's unsustainable [...and speaks of] a genuine wellness society [...] NDs and integrative medicine can and must play a very big role in this transformation [...] an expanded role for NDs [...their] sharp emphasis on wellness and prevention [...their] pragmatism in taking full advantage of the very best available therapies [...]";

the IRONY is killing me.  In finding fault with the current healthcare system, we should embrace NONSENSE?  Like naturopathy's homeopathy?   Let's DO get genuine and talk about what's unsustainable: naturopathy is a patent pseudoscience [in their own words, they pose what isn't science as science, it's completely disingenuous].  Pragmatism?   Best therapies?   Pragmatically speaking naturopathy's claims are quite bogus.  E.g., they laud homeopathy as POWERFUL, yet it is completely placebo!!!

'Medical Nonsense' via JREF's Novella and NCNM as a Primary Example

here, I do the same old thing, show that naturopathy, at its very contextual basis, is junk thought and quite FALSE:

001. Dr. Steven Novella writes in "So Many Flavors of Medical Nonsense" (2012-05-19)[my comments are in unquoted bold]:

"science and discovery - expanding the limits of our concepts of reality - takes real imagination. Pseudoscience (or the cheap imitation, as Sagan called it), not so much. Perhaps that is why old ideas are [either] recycled over and over again as if they were new with the world of pseudoscience [...or] new ideas are stolen from real science and then twisted into the latest scam [...]";

you said it brother.

"in this article I will cover the different categories of unscientific medical claims [...and] medical pseudoscience [...which are] largely a repackaging of the same basic themes [...and knowing such is] helpful in dealing with the [perpetual!!!] flood of nonsense [...]";

time to put your boots on, there be bullshit to talk about.

"[#1] vitalism [...]";

ah, ye old vitalism. 

"vitalism - the idea that life is different from non-life because a living force animates it [...aka] life force (chi, prana, spiritus, etc.) [...]";

one take on the idea of attributing 'lifeliness' to a force is that 'back in the day', before we understood the components of living things, we assigned a like of 'fluid' to represent its characteristics.  Therein, life as seen as made of life-substance or life force, and fire was seen as made of fire-substance, or phlogiston.  It seems as silly these days to say that there is a life force as to say that there is, truly, elemental FIRE.

"all basic biological processes gave way to purely physical explanations, and there was simply nothing left for the vital force to do [...]";

an explanation without something to explain.

"modern charlatans have repackaged the notion of a vital force many times [...like] straight chiropractic [...] therapeutic touch and reiki  [...] homeopathy [...and] acupuncture [...]";

sounds like naturopathy's portfolio to me.  

002. meanwhile, by way of naturopathy-central, the oldest North American naturopathy school and the one that basically seeded all the others, National College of Natural Medicine, states STILL TO THIS DAY, in "Naturopathic Principles of Healing":

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

yes, that is a claim that these things survive scientific scrutiny.

"[#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 [...#3] first do no harm, primum no nocere The process of healing includes the generation of symptoms, which are, in fact, expressions of the life force attempting to heal itself [...] some practitioners in Europe and America, however, perceived that valuable, empirically proven natural therapies were being lost, and struggled to retain the practice of promoting health through stimulation of the vital force and the rational use of natural agents [...]";

yes, the supposed science-based life force that is truly exterior to science NONSENSE that continually spews from the North American naturopathy apparatus both clinically and academically.

naturopathy: the complete reversal of values, and a licensed falsehood.

so easy to show and ripe for class action and consumer protection action.

Vancouver Sun's Fake 'Fake Medicine / Homeopathy Controversy' and the Unspoken Controversy

here, I cite from a new video up at the Vancouver Sun regarding homeopathy: 

001. the Vancouver Sun states in "Video: The Homeopathic Medicine Controversy" (2012-05-18) [vsc 201205-18; not embeddable as a link]:

"[as reported by Wendy Nordvik-Carr in the description] the Sun's food and science reporter Randy Shore takes a look at the controversial practice of homeopathic medicine [...as reported by Randy Shore from the video] a homeopath practices an alternative form of medicine based on a holistic understanding of the patient [...] it's most basic principle is that the body can heal itself [wow, how unique to homeopathy!...] by exposure to the same substances that make you ill [...] the BC Society of Homeopaths is petitioning the government to become a self-regulating health profession [...] homeopaths often treat long-term health issues [...] the solutions are so dilute that only a trace of the original substance is left in the remedy [actually, even less than that...] science is not on the side of the homeopaths [...] the British Government considers homeopathic cures to be placebos and so do most of the reputable studies in scientific journals."

Note: so, homeopathy is nonsense, plain and simple.

002. where's the controversy?

fake medicine purveyors being granted provincial protection with a false veneer of professionalism is the actual controversy here: the licensure of falsehood.

And there's not much more 'fake' than homeopathy out there as a supposed 'practice of medicine'.  The holistic and homeopathic ruse.

And for a supposed science writer, why does Shore seem so...uninterested in, primarily, reporting SCIENTIFICALLY?

His videos are a little creepy actually, like a mugger is chasing me through a city park kind of creepy.

A Toronto ND and Homeopathy Purveyor Ironically Discusses Myth-Debunking at the Morning Show / globaltoronto.com

here, I cite from a recent interview by ND Hirji, who debunks some diet & exercise myths [see 001., below]; then, I mention a CORE naturopathic myth, homeopathy, which is apparently OK for an ND to accept and not debunk since it is so CORE to naturopathy [see 002., below]:

001. Hirji, R. (ND CCNM) states in "The Five Biggest Weight Loss Myths Debunked" (2012-05-14) [vsc 2012-05-14]:

"[as reported textually, from] Toronto [...] it's that time of year again [...] shedding a few pounds in preparation for beach weather is a common practice in spring [...] Global News debunks five weight loss myths that may derail your goals [...with] doctor of naturopathic medicine Dr. Rahima Hirji ND [...on] the Morning Show [...and they talk of] myth #1 [...then] myth #2 [...] myth #3 [...] myth #4 [...and] myth #5."

Note: roughly speaking, these five points are from the realm of physiological thermodynamics and exercise physiology.  I have a degree in physical education and have been an personal trainer and medical exercise specialist, and I don't see much of anything to quibble with grossly.  The advice is rather reasonable and mainstream, and there's nothing naturopathic to it.  You could argue though that this piece sends traffic her way, to her naturopathic practice: from the mundane mainstream foot in the door you are led down the rabbit hole.

002. ND Hirji's naturopathic practice [the rabbit hole], Sage Naturopathic Clinic, which includes Cressman, C. (ND CCNM) states:

002.a. in 'homepage' [vsc 2012-05-14]:

"naturopathy in Kitchener-Waterloo & Cambridge [...with] Rahima Hirji, ND. Founder, Sage Naturopathic Clinic [...] learn more about our clinic, our services, our team [...]";

OK, that's one of the purposes of this blog.

"providing quality healthcare [...in a market of] decreasing access to quality healthcare [...]";

there's a promise.

"we strive to empower our patients [...]";

another promise.

002.b. in "Heal With Homeopathy" [vsc 2012-05-14]:

 "homeopathic medicine is a system of natural medicine [...] homeopathic treatment addresses disease at the root level [...] homeopathic medicines are prepared from tiny amounts of proven healing substances [...] it can help to heal both acute and chronic health issues [...] it is beneficial in acute and first-aid situations [...] homeopathic remedies have the ability to ameliorate and often resolve long standing chronic conditions [...] homeopathic remedies gently activate and boost the body’s own self-healing mechanisms and defenses [...] homeopathy helps build resistance [...it is] safely used to treat the health concerns of infants, children, adults, and the elderly [...] homeopathy is effective. Homeopathic prescribing is effective in both acute and chronic conditions. In many cases homeopathy is fast acting, restoring optimal health [...disease] examples include but are not limited to [...] acne, eczema and psoriasis, asthma and allergies, chronic pain, arthritis and fibromyalgia, Crohn's, colitis, IBS and GERD, depression and anxiety, female issues and infertility, ADD / ADHD and autism, headaches and migraines, hypertension and diabetes, low energy and chronic fatigue, mental illness and emotional problems [...] colds, flu, fever and infections, injuries, strains, sprains and breaks, food poisoning, nausea and travel sickness, shock, grief and trauma [...]";

there go a few claims of efficacy!  But, victimizing ill people with empty potions is not empowering, in my ethical system.

"homeopathy is a scientific and natural medicine [...] the most popular holistic therapy worldwide [...]";

ah, there's the BIG one.  The big falsehood.  It so reminds me that "natural medicine" is the place where people market falsehood with impunity.  And that "holistic" is such a junkyard.

"homeopathy can address any family member’s mental-emotional or physical health concerns.  Homeopathy can act curatively, preventatively or as a palliative therapy [...]";

more efficacy claims.  I'm wondering if this ND supported homeopathic vaccination as opposed to real vaccination.

"homeopathic medicines stimulate the body’s vital energy into action [...]";

ah, so.  The science subset homeopathy subset science-ejected absurdity that is SO naturopathic.  Mythical.  Absurd.  Debunked.

regarding the video itself, the fawning TV personalities acting as journalists are quite amusing, in this context -- except for the ethically disturbing fact that they are indirectly a part of the promotion of nonsense.

and that's not empowering.  At an institutional, level even I think it violates human rights.

New Hampshire Legislature Funds Naturopathic Therapeutic Nonsense (2012)

here, I cite from recent reporting regarding now-mandatory insurance coverage for naturopathic junk like homeopathy in New Hampshire [see 001., below]; then, I show an absurd claim the naturopathic state association makes regarding that fake therapy, and the Randi Million Dollar Challenge that dares homeopaths to PROVE IT [see 002., below]:

001. New Hampshire Public Radio reports in "NH Senate Approves Reimbursements for Naturopaths" (2012-05-16) [saved 2012-05-16]:

"doctors of naturopathic medicine would be reimbursed by health insurance companies under a bill passed by the New Hampshire Senate [...] supporters argued it was a matter of fairness because insurers already reimburse other health care providers for providing the same services. Sen. Lou D'Allesandro, a Manchester Democrat, said the bill would save money in the long term by reducing the need for more expensive medical care.Naturopathic medicine emphasizes the body's own healing powers [coded vitalism...it] now goes to the governor";

Note: what is fair about falsehood?  That SAVES money?  IDIOTS.

002. the New Hampshire Association of Naturopathic Doctors states:

002.a. in "Classical Homeopathy in Naturopathic Practice" [vsc 2012-05-16] written by Kristy Fassler ND, DHANP:

"homeopathy is the art and science of healing based on the law of similars or like cures like."

Note: bullshit:

.

.

002.b. in "Kristy L Fassler, ND, DHANP" [vsc 2012-05-16]:

"Kristy L Fassler, ND, DHANP. Naturopathic medicine and homeopathy.  Dr. Kristy Fassler received her doctorate of naturopathic medicine degree from Bastyr University of Natural Health Sciences in Seattle. She is board certified [a naturopathic board] in classical homeopathy and presents her clinical findings at conferences and writes articles for professional homeopathic journals. She treats most patients with a homeopathic remedy and often other indicated natural treatment modalities. She has served on the New Hampshire Board of Naturopathic Examiners since 1995, including three years as chairperson. Dr. Fassler has appeared in the media, including national television, to share the role naturopathic medicine plays in health care. North Coast Family Health 500 Market St. #1F Portsmouth, NH 03801 Phone: (603) 427-6800 Fax: (603) 427-2801 Website: www.naturopathic-doctors.com".

Note: again, that science subset naturopathy subset homeopathy claim.  Give me a break.  And, of course, the Examiners are the ones self-regulating nonsense.  ND Fassler also tells us on her own web page that homeopathy is supposedly a science.  It should be easy to collect a million dollars then.

003. overall:

naturopathy has increasing license to engage through and be reimbursed for false claims.

NMD Deville Explains: The Supposed Difference between Naturopathy and Conventional Medicine [19th Century Philosophy vs. Science]

here, I cite from the Tuscon Citizen of Arizona column of NMD Deville, who, in quite the thought-muddled manner that characterizes naturopathy, 'explains' medicine, and naturopathic figmentation-laden 'philosophy' / methods [see 001., below]; then, I quote from two of her web pages [see 002.,below]:

001. Deville, L. (NMD SCNM) [pictured wearing a stethoscope, of course!] writes in "Natural Medicine Tips: What Causes Illness" (2012-05-11) [vsc 2012-05-12; my comments are in unquoted bold]:

"Dr Lauren Deville, NMD [...] a board-certified naturopathic physician in Arizona [...]";

when an ND / NMD is licensed, they term themselves board-certified.  If an MD did this, they'd get in a lot of trouble, I think, because a licensed MD is not board-certified until they specialize and get all that 'board approval' in their specialty area. Calling licensure 'board certification' is part of naturopathy's false market posturing.

"the main difference between conventional and naturopathic medicine is in the philosophy. Traditional medicine [conventional] views the body from a mechanistic point of view.  This means that each body system is separate, and sometimes things just go wrong.  The symptoms themselves constitute the disease in most cases, and the job of the physician is to make the symptoms go away [...]";

this explanation is actually an artificial polarity that naturopathy erects, ironically: the 'natural' people create 'fake-crap' all the time.  The position of modern medicine isn't philosophical at all.  Find me someone who says 'I am a medical mechanist'!  Very odd.  Modern medicine is based on science and evidence, to the best ability [and in my opinion, accelerating along these lines].  Before medicine became, specifically, an applied science [rather late in the history of science, most would say], there truly was philosophical medicine: e.g., 1600 years of Galenic 'theory'.  I don't quibble too much with the idea that science is mechanistic.  It is, of course, but not merely mechanistic and not the ABSURDLY myopic point of view that the ND characterizes it as.   After all, NASA does planetary, intrasolar, and even larger of-context science.  There are many diseases that modern medicine has identified as, lets say, organismic, affecting many body systems and not 'stand alone issues', like genetic syndromes that have multiple effects in terms of body systems.  I can't quibble with the idea that some causes are not known, and 'sometimes things just go wrong.'  Genetic disorders are like that, sometimes there are mutations and conditions created by them.  And sometimes there are environmental reasons why those occurred that are known, and yet, some things are so rare they are uncharted territory.  Naturopathy instead likes to invent causes when it doesn't have real ones and NOT EVEN LOOK / VERIFY, while science will admit it is still looking or was wrong.  That modern medicine shallowly understands 'symptoms constitute the disease' is quite a false position.  Naturopaths claim to treat the cause, as if modern medicine doesn't / can't.  But, modern medicine isn't shallow: symptoms of inflammation, for instance, in multiple body systems, could be found to be lupus, and the test for lupus is quite accurate and is a SIGN.  I always find this so interesting: modern medicine uses objective testing diagnostically and relies on the patient's reported symptoms to guide, but the results of tests are not symptoms, they are signs.  The best lab and imaging results point out 'the thing itself', not symptoms which are only the patient's experience.  The doctor doesn't merely make the symptoms go away, ignoring the measurements of medical instrumentation, that would be negligence, in many cases: e.g., if an elderly patient in the ER is having a massive headache the doctor will certainly run imaging to determine if there is a possible stroke happening, not just give a heavy pain killer for the symptom of pain.  But, such mischaracterizations are how NDs / NMDs manipulate the public.

"naturopathic medicine views the body [philosophically!] from a vitalistic point of view.  This means that everything in the body is interconnected, and the body is designed to heal itself [...]";

well, there we go: the admission of vitalism and then, along the lines of fake-crap, a very poor definition of it.  Lets go to a 'core' naturopathic source for the ACTUAL details of this vitalism:  NCNM (here)states that vitalism is the belief that the body heals itself due to a life force.  And a life force is a 'philosophy' quite science-ejected: it simply has no facts to explain in this day-and-age, and is exterior to biology and physiology, to name at least two scientific areas that debunk it.  Of course, the body is interconnected, and heals.  These are not the defining hallmarks of vitalism, or of naturopathy.  Vitalism is the defining hallmark of naturopathy, falsely posed as able to survive scientific scrutiny as that NCNM page illustrates.  And this falsehood is quite easy to show.  So, though it is an error to state that modern medicine is a philosophy of mechanism [it is scientific], it is quite accurate to state that naturopathy is a philosophy of science-ejected junk thought.

"there are essentially three causes of illness: 1) lowered vitality [vitalism, essentially...] 2) abnormal composition of blood and lymph [...] 3) accumulation of waste matter [...whereby] the presence of waste is what allows disease germs and parasites to thrive – in most cases the presence of bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses are secondary, rather than the primary cause of illness!  (If your house is infested with rats, you could simply set out hundreds of rat traps, or you could clean it top to bottom and flood it with fresh air and sunshine, and the rats will flee.  Which do you think would be more effective in the long run?) [...]";

what can you say?  ONLY three causes of illness?  'Vitality' is usually laughed at by thinkers, in that it doesn't actually define much of anything when it isn't coding vitalism.  Perhaps it means 'lifeliness' or 'having the essentials', when not coding vitalism.  I simply find the idea to be vapid, and a veneer.  Now, naturopaths love to scare people into unnecessary detox therapies, including detox supplements that they sell directly to the patient and doing colonics.  The 'blame the patient' metaphor is simply wrong: there are tons of germs that can make perfectly healthy [not waste / garbage cluttered!] people sick.  This is because these microbes have co-evolved with mankind.  But again, naturopathy perverts biology.  Try totally adhering to these ideas of lifeliness, blood and lymph composition, and cleanliness, and then expose yourself to anthrax or tuberculosis.  I don't advise it.

"the naturopathic treatment principles for any condition must involve the same three! 1) improve the body’s vitality.  This means establishing a healthy regimen, including a strong spiritual connection [...] treatments such as [...] homeopathy, acupuncture [...] 2) build up the body fluids (blood and lymph) naturally.  This means eating real food – not processed crap, not sugar, not a standard American diet.  It also means drinking plenty of water – not soda, not (excessive) coffee or alcohol, not sugary juice concentrates [...] 3) promote elimination of waste and poisons [...]";

so, we're back to vitalism basically using vitalism-based therapeutics [homeopathy, acupuncture] premised on magic beans and unicorn tears! Again, talk of fluids.  I'm always interested in naturopaths talking about what is "real", and then they go and apply homeopathy and acupuncture to the patient to fix their imaginary vital force and chi.  And then there's the orthorexic diet moralizing and FORCED supernaturalism.  But hugely, what bothers me is scaring people that they are toxic, and only naturopathy has the solution.  It is actually a hold-over from that old Galenic humoural model and the late-era heroic purging methods. Since this toxicity thing is make believe, I regard this creation-of-a-fake-problem-only-NDs-can-fix to be a form of racketeering.

002. NMD Deville also writes, at her practice web page:

002.a. in "What is Naturopathic Medicine?" [vsc 2012-05-13]:

"naturopathic physicians (N.D's/N.M.D's) receive four years of post-graduate training in medical schools structured specially for them.  The first two years of naturopathic medical school includes the same basic medical science courses and diagnostics required of their conventional counterparts, followed by a basic sciences board exam [...and] the principles of naturopathic medicine are as follows [...#2] the healing power of nature";

Note: so, supposed rigorous doctoral-level science.  And her page links to the AANMC home page, which within its many pages STILL falsely labels naturopathy a 'branch of medical science'.  And ND Deville codes naturopathy's vitalism instead of informing us up-front of that science-ejected figmentation.  Typical.

002.b. in "Homeopathy" [vsc 2012-05-13]:

"according to naturopathic philosophy, the human body is intelligent, and symptoms are your body’s attempt to deal with the illness [...] suppression [...] forces the illness 'deeper' [...] we should work with our body’s symptoms in order to achieve the quickest cure. Homeopathy is a great way to do this [...]";

again, philosophy!  It is interesting to attribute intelligence to the human body when only, truly, the human mind has intelligence [sometimes!].  Behind all this language is the idea that physiology is run my a purposeful / teleological life spirit / vital force.  We were taught in naturopathy school that if you ignore what the vital force is telling you, you will suppress.  What's interesting here is the lack of any consideration for 'signs'!  Homeopathy was created when medicine doesn't have much understanding of physiology and even less ability to measure.  But, naturopaths don't all that much care for objective signs, especially when they debunk their prized methods, like the empty pills known as homeopathy.  Therein, how homeopathy is a "great way" to cure beats me.

"what happens when I take a homeopathic remedy? [...] three things can happen when you take a homeopathic remedy: you get better, you get worse and then you get better, or nothing happens [...]";

why is the number always three with this NMD / ND?  What's interesting is that homeopathy is never impugned no matter what happens!

"homeopathic remedies are 'potentized' which means that they have been diluted to the point where technically none of the original substance remains, and shaken well between each dilution. This process has been shown to imprint the 'energetics' of the substance on the water in which it has been diluted [...]";

the magic beans and unicorn tears method!  And that use of 'energy' so inappropriately!  Energy is an objective measurement.  But, here it is used within the same context as the Tooth Fairy: an imaginary physically immeasurable and effect-less figmentation.

'the principle of 'like cures like' is well established clinically [...]";

really.  Well, yeah, in the sympathetic magic clinic.

"we don’t really know how it works! [...]";

actually, we know it doesn't work.

Note: yet, on the naturopathic board exam, homeopathy is labeled a "core clinical science." 

Changelog 2012-05-13 and ND Video:

here, I summarize this week's additions to my public naturopathy database.  I also link to an ND's video each changelog, quote from, and tag the video in some detail:

001. added:

the vitalism of:

added a response to ND Brady's characterization of me in commentary to

his "Dr. Brady's Health Revolution [...]"(2007; ISBN 1600370802) page

at Amazon.com, a book I'd pointed out the naturopathic-homeopathic

vitalism within in 2008;

the science claims of:

ND Houghton, P.B.; ND Hamilton;

ND Hannaman; ND Hermiston;

to Appendix I.05.g.;

ND Barter; ND Bryk; ND Boice

to Appendix I.05.b.;

the 'naturopathy is pseudoscience and quackery' claim of:

Costa and Dwyer of Friends of Science in Medicine 

from theconversation.edu.au
to Appendix K.00.;

002. video of the week link [not to pun]:

Boice, J. (ND NCNM) states in "Naturopath or Homeopath" [vsc 2012-05-11]:

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.

[#homeopathic #naturopathic #NDBoice #]

.

"[description] Dr. Boice discusses the difference between homeopath[y] and naturopathy [...from the video] I have many patients who come and say 'you're a homeopathic doctor, right?' [...] yes, I use homeopathy in my practice and I'm a naturopathic physician [...who] use a whole range of therapies [...] naturopathic medicine [...] it's united by its philosophy [...] homeopathy definitely is something I work with."

ND Boice also states in "About Naturopathic Medicine" [vsc 2012-05-12]:

"naturopathic medical students study all of the medical sciences [...] naturopathic medical philosophy: [#1] vis medicatrix naturae, the healing power of nature [...] an innate wisdom that governs the cycles of birth, growth, maturation, and decay [...] plant, mineral, and animal substances provide the foundation for homeopathic medicines.  Each of these medications has an intelligence and healing ability onto itself.  This native, 'natural' intelligence interacts with our own bodies’ healing wisdom."

Note: so, science, then, coded, hugely coded, vitalism aka NONSCIENCE.  That's typical.  Again, check back with her alma mater, NCNM, and you will see that VMN-HPN is the science-ejected concept of a 'life force' governing physiology.  Also, ND Boice works at CTCA, an institution that defines naturopathic as, explicitly, "life force" based and homeopathy as, explicitly, "powerful".  This is the game they play: misinformed consent.  She doesn't spell-out the vitalism at the heart of naturopathy even in her book, "Pocket Guide to Naturopathic Medicine" (1996) and she does tell us:

"the template of healing outlined below is common to both naturopathic and homeopathic medicines: the Laws of Cure, healing occurs:

from inside to outside internal organs first, skin last;

from top to bottom from the head region down to the feet;

from most recent to most distant recent symptoms recur first, followed by older symptoms -- in other words, in reverse chronological order;

front least important to most important organs."

And then tells us: "homeopathy which literally means 'study of similars' is a medical science [...and speaks of] the science of homeopathy [p.040]."

Which is complete nonsense / figmentation.

Naturopathy Rebates Ending in Australia?

here, I cite from a recent abc.net.au article:

Patrick Wright writes in "Budget Measure Could End Natural Therapy Rebates" (2012-05-09)[my comments are in unquoted bold]:

"a federal budget measure could see natural therapies excluded from private health insurance rebates unless there is clear evidence they are clinically effective [...]";

ah, yeah, sound's like the ETHICAL thing to do.

"a review into the 'clinical efficacy, cost effectiveness, safety and quality' of natural therapies [...aka] complementary medicines [...] was announced in the budget handed down by Treasurer Wayne Swan [...] natural therapies found to be clinically ineffective will be cut out of government-funded private health insurance rebates [...] including homeopathy, aromatherapy, ear candling, crystal therapy, flower essences, iridology, kinesiology [specifically, I believe, applied kinesiology, not the regular science known as kinesiology] and naturopathy could be found ineligible [...]";

I applaud.  Most of the list are actually in a naturopathy curriculum.  Why should taxpayers pay for such NONSENSE?  Notice that the category of "natural" or "complementary" is truly NONSENSICAL.

"professor Ken Harvey from La Trobe University's School of Public Health [the Australian Consumers Association Consumer Champion for 2012...says] there really is no scientific validation for the homeopathic medicines or the principles [...yet] Australian Traditional Medicine Society president Dr Sandi Rogers [a naturopath] says the announcement came as a surprise [...she said] 'if natural medicine didn't work, then why do consumers keep coming back for more? [...] we would just like a fair playing field' [...]";

so, yet lacking scientific support and actually in fact quite often scientifically ejected, "natural" nonsense wants fairness to, in my opinion, EXPLOIT [the fairness to be false, absurdly].  Popularity does not confer efficacy, again I find myself repeating: e.g., 1600 years of Galenic medicine did not make it in fact valid.

New York's ND Moore: 'Homeopathy First Aid' [Nothing-Pills for Real Problems!]

here, I quote from a recent article by ND Moore on homeopathy in New York State's Democrat and Chronicle [see 001., below]; then, I cite from a recent piece by MD Novella up at the James Randi Educational Foundation regarding homeopathy witchcraft [see 002., below]:

001. Moore, L. (ND NCNM) states in "Les Moore: Homeopathy and First Aid" (2012-05-08)[vsc 2012-05-08; my comments are in unquoted bold]:

"homeopathy is a very safe medicine that can be used for home first aid [...]";

so the claim is that if it can be used medicinally for first aid, that it actually WORKS, me thinks.

"one of the most popular ways of using homeopathy is for first aid in athletics and at home [...]";

of course, popularity does not therein confer EFFICACY.

"[the ND mentions] homeopathic remedies [...like] Arnica Montana [...] for any injury or accident [...and] bruises, sore muscles, falls, bumps, contused wounds, black eyes and sprains [...and] Calendula officinalis [...] for abrasions, scratches, burns, superficial wounds and incised wounds [...and] skin irritation or injury requiring a soothing lotion or cleansing [...as it] promotes healing and prevents infection [...and] Hypericum perfoliatum [...] for nerve end injuries such as crushed fingertips [...and] puncture and lacerated wounds [...and] Ledum palustre [...] for puncture wounds from sharp objects, bee or mosquito stings, animal bites and scratches, black eyes and long-lasting bruises [...] Rhus toxicodendren [...] for sprains or strains of joints, muscles, tendons or ligaments, including torn ligaments and tendons [...and] blistering, itching, burning and swelling of skin."

so, the claim is that these remedies will improve these actual harms.

Note: ND Moore's own practice page states in "Naturopathic Medicine" [vsc 2012-05-08]:

"naturopathic medicine is a distinct profession of primary health care [...] the scope of practice includes all aspects of family and primary care and all natural medicine modalities, including  [...] homeopathic medicine [...]";

ah, the 'of the professions' claim.

"naturopathic medicine is distinguished from other medical systems by its philosophy, based on eight principles [...including] the healing power of nature (vis medicatrix naturae) [HPN-VMN...aka] encouragement of the body's inherent healing abilities [...]";

and that's all you get regarding HPN-VMN.  I therein will state this: this is their shorthand camouflage for a science-ejected concept and context known as vitalism.  But why would an ND accurately inform the public of this fact?

"qualified naturopathic doctors (ND) [N] are graduates of a U.S. Department of Education accredited four-year naturopathic medical school. These programs provide the same basic sciences [BS], diagnostic lab and radiological studies, minor surgery, etc. as medical schools, with emphasis on natural therapeutics [...like] homeopathy [H...] and basic training in Oriental medicine [OM...]";

ah, that science claim, as a "base."  So the proposition is that it is BS subset N subset H and OM.  You would think, therefore since we are talking about quite an apparatus, that homeopathy is therein...scientifically supported.  And you would be WRONG.  The USDE is, in my opinion, a party to such absurdity and a heck of a lot of people are being brainwashed into this nonsense [see below for the nonsensicality of homeopathy].

002. Steven Novella, M.D. "the JREF's Senior Fellow and Director of the JREF’s Science-Based Medicine project [...and] academic clinical neurologist at Yale University School of Medicine [...and] president and co-founder of the New England Skeptical Society [...and] host and producer of [...] The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe [...and author of] the NeuroLogica Blog" writes recently in "Homeopathy for Whooping Cough" (2012-05-05) [vsc 2012-05-08]:

"homeopathy is witchcraft. From a scientific point of view it is no more valid than brewing magic potions with eye of newt and lizard tails. Homeopaths, however, continue to stubbornly promote their potions as if they were real medical treatments [...and mentions] their fanciful notions of 'miasms' and sympathetic magic [...]";

and naturopaths are, here in North America, quite 'homeopathic promoters'.

"[...and he speaks of] the unscientific nature of homeopathy [...]";

and, dare I add, by direct example above, 'the unscientific nature of nature-opathy'!

"[...regarding Australia] it is good to hear of regulatory bodies [...e.g.] the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), which is the equivalent of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US [...and] the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which is their equivalent of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [...] taking their missions seriously and applying them to homeopathic fraud [...specifically the] offering homeopathic potions as an alternative preventive and treatment for whooping cough";

hear, hear.

Note: so, in my opinion, posing homeopathic absurdity as first aid medicine is quite not-professional and fraudulent, and yet-to-be-licensed naturopathy-in-NYS marches on.

when is primary health care falsely posed as based on science when actually witchcraft: naturopathy.

A NECSS 2012 NYC Saturday and My Take:

here, I comment upon a science / critical thinking / skepticism / women's rights / government transparency conference I attended a couple of weeks ago:

001. was there:

002. the contents:

I was only there Saturday.  Both John Bohannon and Deborah Feldman were amazing.  And I say that after having attended all NECSS Saturdays and a couple of TAMs. I simply didn't expect their content, and their content was edifying.  It also got me hooked on 'Dance Your PhD'.  The Skeptic's Guide is not something I regularly listen to.  Partly, this is because I'm quite familiar with their contents and it seems to be often 'things I already know', because I read so much.  Though, I have questions like: 'why does Rebecca look like Sigmund the Sea Monster?' and 'why does Evan seem to be giving an oral 6th grade book report?'  Seth Shostak was great. As an medical science educator, I enjoyed the education panel.  I'm constantly torn between basic knowledge type teaching and more advanced critical thinking possibilities: there's what I know the students need to know in terms of basic literacy, and, frankly, there's the animation [and I choose that word quite ironically] I'd like to see like e.g. when Pinocchio is changed from wood to flesh [perhaps a poor analogy, as I'm interested in their MENTAL development more so].  Ethan Brown reminded me that I am merely a mortal.  And it was great to see Randi live again.

Other things interesting: I'd chatted a little bit with the host, Jamie Ian Swiss, about Teller's lawsuit against a magician that is selling Teller's intellectual property without permission.  It was fascinating to hear the 'guild' perspective, though I know nothing about magic and have never seen Penn and Teller live and saw only a couple of their Bullshit episodes.  And also, in the seat next to me, was a guy who makes his living selling a kind of no-feet hackey-sack, at FAO just around the corner from the venue.

It was a great Saturday.

-r.c.

Changelog 2012-05-06 and ND Video:

here, I summarize this week's additions to my public naturopathy database.  I also link to an ND's video each changelog, quote from, and tag the video in some detail:

001. added:

the vitalism of:

the North Carolina Association of Naturopathic Physicians 

to Appendix B.03.;

the science claims of:

the North Carolina Association of Naturopathic Physicians

to Appendix I.03.;

ND Daenell; ND DeLuca, H.;NDs Dortero, Fraser, Oldfield, Whittington

to Appendix I.05.d.;

002. video of the week link [not to pun]:

Klinck, B. (ND CCNM) states in "Integrative Medicine at Medcan" [vsc 2012-05-07]:

.

.

[#posedempowerment #posedinformedconsent #TCM #acupuncture #integrativemedicine #naturalperspective]

"[from the description] Medcan's Integrative Medicine program provides clients with the care and information needed to maximize their bodies' ability to heal. When you understand and address the reasons for disease, you can begin to provide your body with the tools necessary to restore your best health [...from the video, ND Klinck] a naturopathic doctor is trained in a four-year medical model that includes conventional medical training as well as that from a natural perspective [...like] traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture [etc....] any concern that you would bring to your medical doctor you could also bring to a naturopathic doctor  [...] integrative medicine [...] this allows our patients to make an informed and empowered decision when it comes to the best choice, the best option for their health care";

Note: so, when is the best option 'wine plus mud posed as wine...naturopathy.'

A Science-Ejected Therapeutic Built into the North Carolina ND Licensing Bill

here, I cite some facts regarding the North Carolina Association of Naturopathic Physicians [NCANP].  First, there is their "science" claim upon 'the naturopathic' [see 001., below]; then, their science-ejected homeopathy actuality [see 002., below]; finally, the language of their 2011 bill which will license falsehood [see 003., below]:

001. that typical 'naturopathy claim of science':

001.a. NCANP states in  "About Naturopathic Doctors Licensing Act in North Carolina" [vsc 2012-05-02]:

"the national standards for licensure of naturopaths [includes] requiring college graduation with an emphasis in sciences."

Note: and it gets richer.

001.b.  NCANP states in "Education and Professional Standards of Naturopathic Physicians" [saved 2011-06-17; my comments are in unquoted bold]:

"all licensed naturopathic physicians have doctorate of naturopathic medicine degrees from federally recognized medical schools. Their education includes [...] the same foundational and clinical sciences as other medical students [...]";

ah, science subset naturopathy.  Supposedly a 'foundation of science, and a clinical methodology of science'. 

"[NDs' licensure] NPLEX examinations [...include] Part I - Biomedical Science Examination and [...] Part II - Clinical Science Examination [etc...]";

so, the claim is 'licensure via SCIENCE subset naturopathy'.  I think it is reasonable to then expect that naturopathy shouldn't contain the science-ejected.  I think this is a promise to society / a social contract that they are posing.  If you look closely at that NPLEX, homeopathy is contained on that Part II.

002. the science-ejected essentially naturopathic:

002.a. NCANP states in "About"  [vsc 2012-05-02]:

"naturopathic medicine is a primary health care profession [professions claim...] the naturopathic perspective views each person as a whole and recognizes the healing force within each individual. Natural therapies are used to support and stimulate that vital healing force. A naturopathic doctor addresses the underlying cause or imbalance within a person rather than simply treating one’s problem symptomatically. Naturopathic therapies include clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, hydrotherapy, physical medicine and lifestyle counseling."

Note: ah, we have vitalism as an overall context, and homeopathy!  So, a profession based upon figmentation and nonsense...posed as 'to the true cause' as opposed to regular medicine which merely treats ACTUAL things.  The absurdity delights me.  The ethics disgust me.  Now, there is no vital healing force.  It's as science-ejected as phlogiston and Mesmerism.  Regarding homeopathy particularly, today Science Based Medicine has this to say in "Funding CAM Research":

"homeopathy is rejected by the mainstream because our current understanding of physics, chemistry, and biology tell us that it is impossible for homeopathic potions with extreme dilutions to have any physiological effect."

yet, naturopathy holds these magic beans and unicorn tears SACRED and falsely poses such as able to survive scientific scrutiny.

003. legislating nonsense and falsely posing it as scientific:

003.a. NCANP naturopaths have up for consideration "HOUSE DRH11166-LUfqq-98 (03/24) [...aka] Naturopathic Doctors Licensing Act" [vsc 2012-05-02] which states:

"the purpose of this Article is to provide standards for the licensure of naturopathic doctors desiring to practice naturopathic medicine in this State and to ensure the maintenance of professional competence and acceptable standards of practice [...]";

in essence, the licensure of falsehood and nonsense.  What is professional about being WRONG about something?  What is acceptable about deceiving the public?

"[and mentions] many of the therapies used by naturopathic doctors, such as [...] homeopathic preparations [...]";

empty remedies posed as medicinal, very professional and scientifically based.

"[...] natural medicines [are] any herbal, nutritional, supplemental, homeopathic, or other nonprescription remedies [...]";

do you get the feeling that if empty remedies are considered medicinal by NDs, that the rest of this stuff is likely mostly JUNK?  I mean, if magic beans are now, according to them at least, surviving scientific scrutiny and all...

"the General Assembly concludes that licensure is in the current interest of North Carolina citizens to aid in protecting citizens from deception, fraud, and damage [...] licensure can provide a process in which citizens may more confidently rely on the level of skill, education, and competency possessed by licensed persons [...]";

the irony is both killing me and saddening me.  Thanks for caring, State of North Carolina, to absurdly license falsehood.

when is the science-ejected falsely labeled science with a State as an accomplice in the falsehood:

when your state has licensed naturopathic medicine.

Australian Naturopath, Iridologist and Medical Intuitive Trijntje Reilly: 'Fantastic Results with Distance Healing Energy' [so take the JREF's challenge!]

here, I cite from a recent Australian Broadcasting Corporation audio interview of a naturopath who claims to have what most would call paranormal or supernatural diagnostic and healing powers [see 001., below]; then, her qualifications from her web page biography [see 002., below]; and finally, also from her naturopathy web page and various other pages at her clinic [see 003., below]:

001. ND Reilly states in "Modalities - Medical Intuitive Trijntje Reilly" (2012-04-30)[downloaded 2012-04-30; my comments are in unquoted bold]:

"[the host is Mary-Lou Stephens (MLS)] this afternoon on modalities we are looking at [...] the realm of the medical intuitive [...via] Trijntje Reilly [...]";

Wikipedia actually has an article on this (here) which states: "a study on medical intuitives concluded that 'patients relying solely on psychic diagnosis as the basis for therapy are at risk of serious medical problems going undetected.'"  I should think so.  It adds "the James Randi Educational Foundation has offered a $1,000,000 USD prize to anyone who can prove under controlled conditions that he or she can diagnose or cure an illness using intuition or prove the existence of auras. To date, only one medical intuitive has taken the challenge using an experimental protocol that she helped to design. She failed to diagnose any documented illness beyond the level of chance."  That, too, is not surprising.  What is rather surprising is the lack of skepticism by the host of this interview.  She doesn't utter a peep of disbelief or ask for any kind of EVIDENCE.  It is rather interesting that the ABC page for the presenter states "exercise your imagination."

"[...ND Reilly] I was born in Holland [...] we have our clinic [...]";

yes.  And an abundant amount of information it does provide by via the WWW.

"[...MLS] you do all kinds of things at the clinic.  You are a naturopath [...and regarding] this field of being a medical intuitive [...] how does one become a medical intuitive? [...]";

I think the worn joke here is 'I knew you were going to ask that question.'

"[...ND] I did a course and tapped into the alpha level of consciousness [...aka] the superconsciousness [...] I went down into these levels at this particular course [...] we were asked to identify certain situations of people that were overseas [...] I went into rapid eye movements [...] I was able to identify all the different things about this particular person that I had never ever met [...]";

cue the woo.  Wikipedia's definition of "alpha level of consciousness" is "alpha waves can be seen in persons watching movies or television narratives in which they are fully engrossed, mostly unaware of their surroundings."  Perhaps that's what the ND is talking about.  I guess scholars of the New Age can talk about the lineage of many of these terms like superconsciousness.  I guess if you are doing mental "levels" then you are taking your mental elevator.

"[...ND mentions] Dr. Bernard Jensen that I'd actually studied with over in America [...]";

likely the most famous iridologist.

"[...she says] I actually prayed for the gift of healing [...and speaks of her teacher, someone named Bernard who was] doing readings, automatic writing and also spiritual healing [...] he showed me how to breath [...then] put your hands over her [...and] ask whatever you believe whether it is nature, or god, or Buddha or Jesus to flow through you [...] and things will start happening [...] my hands just took off [...like the native American] hand tremblers [...so] my hands just took off and it went to pressure points and it went to different areas of the body where I could actually identify certain things [...and coming to mind would be] herbs i'd never even heard of [...] I had never had a day's experience in acupuncture and yet I could identify where these acupuncture points were for specific parts of the body [...]";

'I had no control over my hands, it was god.'  Interesting that figmentation is claimed to lead to some kind of real-world-accuracy!  Then again, acupuncture meridians don't exist and neither do their points, physiologically speaking.  And since all of this is anecdote... 

"[the ND continues] I believe it is [...] a spiritual energy that flows through me that actually does it [...] people would only have to give me their name, their address, and their date of birth and all this information would flow [...] I have experienced wonderful results with people all over the world [...] if it's for a diagnosis all I need specifically say is their name, their address, and their age and I will then zoom-in on what is going on for them and my hands will take off and start writing specific things  [...I] tap in to their vibration [...] with the distant healing energy it is very very similar I usually do ask for their symptoms, and then I zoom in on that and send them healing energy and I've been getting fantastic results [...]";

wow.  Quite a claim of efficacy.

"[...MLS] what kind of problems are they presenting with? [...ND Reilly] physical and emotional [...] it's body, mind and spirit [...] arthritis to cancer to Parkinson's, you name it, all sorts of different things [..] depression and anxiety [...] I've certainly been helping a lot of people with that [...]";

again, an efficacy claim.

002. her biography page states ND Reilly's "qualifications" include:

"1982 certificate: study of colon irrigation [...]1984 diploma of naturopathy, Queensland Institute of Natural Science [...]";

ah, yes, science subset naturopathy.

"1984 certificate Iridology, Iridologists International (Bernard Jensen), 1984 Certificate Instructor of Iridology, Iridologists International (Bernard Jensen) [...]";

so lots of iridology.

"1986 First Degree Reiki, The Official Reiki Program [...]";

not to be confused with other 'laying-of-hands' knock-offs.

003. her web pages state [what out, I'm not kidding about this, her clinic map indicates that it is Northwest of Deception Bay!]:

003.a. regarding naturopathy, in "Naturopathy, Natural Health Care Clinic Naturopathic Services" [vsc 2012-04-30], in part:

"naturopathy is natural medicine [...] one of the longest traditions of any healing system, and is the forerunner of modern medicine [...] wise healers, shamans, medicine men and medicine women [etc....]";

having studied naturopathy now for more than 15 years, I disagree with this supposed lineage.  I actually think it is a crock.  What preceded modern medicine is prescientific medicine.  And it was both ineffective and scary, more often than not.  One could argue that dumb-assedness is also one of the longest traditions, wherein for most of the history of the human race, they knew ALMOST NOTHING.  So, in some major sense, this historical romanticization of premodern knowledge [which is of course by no means perfect] is quite a reversal of values: elevating ignorance to a virtue and imbuing such ignorance with results it simply didn't have.

"if you have ever seen a dog or a cat eat grass you have witnessed naturopathy practiced instinctively by an animal [...]";

hmmmmm.  Dogs are omnivores, cats are carnivores.  And if we want to go all "instinctively", if the dog eats the cat which can happen, is that naturopathy too? Is a cat filled with grass more medicinal for the dog, therein?

"I will run through your medical history with you [...] I will also record your vital statistics and contact details [...] in some circumstances I may want a urine sample [...] I may also want to consult any recent X-rays, blood tests, allergy tests or other medical documentation you have - it is always a good idea to bring them with you when you come [...then] I will conduct my own diagnosis - for this I use iridology (I am a Dr. Jensen-qualified iridology instructor) and my native gifts as a medical intuit [...]";

ah, ye old iridology.  Which is considered bunk.  If her intuition is so powerful in terms of DISTANCE as she said on the radio, then why is she even bothering to do iridology, and take a history, and all that other stuff?  Just a thought.

"herbal medicines, vitamin and minerals, nutritional advice, iridology and other natural therapies are all used to treat illness, amplifying and encouraging the natural healing forces in the body to support the body's own healing abilities and processes [...] wise healers, shamans, medicine men and medicine women have been using ingredients from nature to treat, heal and cure their clients from all types of ailments, conditions and diseases";

and if you notice, she directly sells a lot of these things.  I thought iridology is a diagnostic, not a treatment?  The forces, by the way, are usually vitalistic figmentations much like her previously mentioned "healing energy".  I really don't think the, say, medicine-before-effective-modern-medicine is the romantic success it is being posed as here.  Just as I don't think iridology is the useful diagnostic it is being posed as here.

003.b. regarding iridology, in "Iridology - Iris Interpretation and Diagnosis - a Natural Health and Life Diagnosis Tool" [vsc 2012-04-30], in part:

"iridology is an eye interpretation technique which correlates markings in the iris (the colored portion of the eye) with the person’s internal states. Iridology concerns itself with your physiology or physical condition [...]";

and yet, not surprisingly [based on the company that iridology usually keeps in the sCAM arena], it doesn't work.  Here's a US optometrist speaking out about this pseudoscience in 2011 (here).

"iridology does not diagnose diseases, iridology diagnoses or analyzes tissue conditions in specific areas of your body. This reveals inherent strengths and weaknesses of organs, identifying deteriorating conditions before serious symptoms appear. Both these interpretive techniques are accurate, reliable and extraordinarily useful in determining the true state of affairs in your life. The markings or signs in the iris indicate the condition of your organs and systems of your body. They will show your constitutional strength, areas of congestion or toxic accumulations and inherent strengths and weaknesses [...] what is happening throughout your body [...]";

hmmm.  So, the things wrong with you are not diseases, they're just what's wrong with your physiology [which is basically a disease] diagnostically speaking [double-talk, gobbledygook].  I completely disagree with the ND's 'accurate, reliable, useful' claim.  Ah, ye old physiological homunculus.

"the internal physical condition of chronically-afflicted patients can be better monitored in the iris of the eye than by possibly any other method: including modern imaging techniques such as MRI and CAT scans [...]";

really.

"many clients feel an immediate relief and lightness as their fears of the unknown are eliminated and they become empowered with knowledge of what they can do to eradicate the problem [...]";

I prefer to be empowered by actual scientific knowledge.

003.c. regarding colonics, in "Colonic Irrigation - Spring Water Detox at Middle Path" [vsc 2012-04-30], in part:

"cleansing your colon is one of the fastest ways to detox your system. It will give you an instant feeling of well-being, and is a powerful first step in restoring a vital and vibrant life. Almost every chronic dis-ease is directly due to the influence of bacterial poisons absorbed by the colon. A toxic colon can significantly contribute to 80 per cent of all diseases and debilitating health conditions [...] a safe effective quick detoxification that will improve your health instantly";

gastroenterologist's disagree with these claims.  Here's the 2011 synopsis "Colonic Irrigation 'Offers no Health Benefits'."

003.d. regarding intuitive distant diagnosis, in "Medical Intuition - the Foundation of My Distant Diagnosis Service" [vsc 2012-04-30], in part:

"what is medical intuition? My gift is healing and I am known as a medical intuit or medical intuitive [...]";

go on...

"similar to distant energy healing where beneficial healing energies can be stimulated at a distance, medical intuition allows an intuit to perceive medical conditions at a distance. This means I can carry out accurate diagnosis of ailments, conditions and disorders without the need for you to visit my clinic [...]";

again, so why have a clinic people can go to?  Lonely perhaps?  Again, if these diagnoses are shown to be accurate under controlled conditions, you win a million dollars from the JREF! 

"my clients around the world appreciate the convenience of a quick, effortless and accurate appraisal of their health and well-being without leaving their home [...]"; 

go on... 

"the cost is AUD$49 which you can pay with your credit card [...]";

ka-ching.

003.e. regarding spiritual distant healing, in "Distant Energy Healing Service" [vsc 2012-04-30], in part:

"what is distant healing? My gift is healing and I am a medical intuit or medical intuitive which allows me to operate at a distance, energetically.  This allows me to perceive conditions and imbalances for clients - wherever they are - as well as direct specific energy to stimulate an individual's healing - wherever they are in the world [...]";

take the Challenge!  FFS!!!

004. overall note:

this ND should take the JREF's Challenge and win a million dollars, since she claims such emphatically successful results.  Her medical intuition could be tested, or her distance healing, as well as her iridology.