Common Conditions Treated
by Naturopathic Doctors
Naturopathic Doctors are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that naturopathic doctors help patients manage:
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a naturopathic doctor.
Your First Visit
- Extended initial consultation (60-90 minutes) - Naturopathic doctors spend significantly more time with patients than conventional visits, taking a thorough health history that includes current symptoms, past medical history, family history, diet and lifestyle, stress levels, sleep patterns, environmental exposures, and emotional well-being
- Systems review - Comprehensive assessment of all body systems to understand how symptoms may be interconnected. NDs view the body as an integrated whole and look for patterns across systems
- Physical examination - A complete physical exam appropriate to your concerns, which may include conventional examination techniques plus naturopathic assessments like tongue and nail diagnosis
- Discussion of your health goals - NDs work collaboratively with patients, asking about your priorities, treatment preferences, and what you hope to achieve through care
- Initial recommendations and testing - Based on your history and exam, your ND may order laboratory tests, recommend initial dietary changes, suggest foundational supplements, or prescribe botanical medicines. Testing often goes beyond standard panels to include functional medicine markers
- Treatment plan overview - Explanation of the naturopathic approach to your conditions, timeline expectations, and a roadmap for ongoing care. NDs educate patients on the 'why' behind recommendations
- Paperwork and intake forms - Extensive health questionnaires completed before or during your visit to gather comprehensive information
Diagnosis & Testing
- Comprehensive laboratory testing: Complete blood counts, comprehensive metabolic panels, thyroid panels (including antibodies), vitamin D, B12, iron studies, inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), and specialized panels based on presentation
- Functional medicine testing: Comprehensive stool analysis, SIBO breath testing, organic acids testing, nutrient evaluations, hormone panels (saliva, urine, or serum), food sensitivity panels, environmental toxin testing, and genetic SNP analysis
- Physical examination: Conventional physical exam plus naturopathic assessment techniques including tongue diagnosis, nail analysis, and constitutional evaluation
- Dietary and lifestyle assessment: Detailed food diaries, nutrient intake analysis, sleep quality evaluation, stress assessment, and environmental exposure history
- Imaging referrals: When indicated, NDs can order or refer for X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, and other imaging studies (scope varies by state)
- Specialty referrals: Coordination with conventional specialists for advanced diagnostics or conditions requiring conventional medical evaluation
Treatment Options
- Clinical nutrition: Therapeutic diets tailored to your conditions (elimination diets, anti-inflammatory protocols, autoimmune paleo, low FODMAP), meal planning, and addressing nutrient deficiencies through food and supplementation
- Botanical medicine: Prescription of herbal medicines in various forms (tinctures, capsules, teas, topicals) using evidence-based protocols. Botanicals are chosen for their specific therapeutic actions and safety profile
- Nutritional supplementation: Targeted vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and nutraceuticals to address deficiencies, support biochemical pathways, and enhance healing. Supplements are typically medical-grade and practitioner-prescribed
- Homeopathy: Use of highly diluted substances based on the principle of 'like cures like' to stimulate the body's healing response. More commonly used by some NDs than others
- Physical medicine: Hydrotherapy (therapeutic use of water), naturopathic manipulation, therapeutic exercise prescription, and bodywork recommendations
- Mind-body medicine: Stress management techniques, breathing exercises, meditation guidance, and addressing the emotional components of health
- IV nutrient therapy: Intravenous administration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for rapid nutrient repletion (in states where NDs have IV privileges)
- Lifestyle counseling: Comprehensive guidance on sleep hygiene, exercise, stress reduction, environmental modifications, and healthy habit formation
- Pharmaceutical prescriptions: In states with prescriptive authority, NDs may prescribe certain medications when natural approaches are insufficient or in acute situations
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your naturopathic doctor provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Naturopathic Doctor
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a naturopathic doctor.
Credentials to Verify
- Verify graduation from an accredited naturopathic medical school (CNME-accredited institutions: Bastyr University, National University of Natural Medicine, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Sonoran University, or University of Bridgeport)
- Confirm licensure in your state through the state licensing board (critical - unlicensed practitioners may not have legitimate training)
- Look for NPLEX examination completion (Parts I and II) which is required for licensure
- Check for additional certifications in relevant specialties (oncology - FABNO, women's health, pediatrics, IV therapy)
- Verify active, unrestricted license with no disciplinary actions through your state's medical board or naturopathic licensing board
- Consider membership in professional organizations like the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) or state naturopathic associations
Important Considerations
- State licensure status - Ensure you're in a state where NDs are licensed and understand their legal scope of practice in your jurisdiction
- Experience with your specific conditions - Ask about their experience treating digestive issues, hormones, fatigue, or whatever brought you to seek care
- Treatment philosophy and modalities used - Some NDs focus more on nutrition and supplements while others emphasize homeopathy or botanical medicine
- Collaboration with conventional medicine - Look for NDs who communicate with your other healthcare providers and know when to refer
- Insurance acceptance - Many NDs don't accept insurance, but some states mandate coverage. Understand costs upfront
- Office location, hours, and availability for questions between visits
- Communication style - Do they take time to explain and educate? Do you feel heard?
- Laboratory and testing capabilities - Does the practice offer comprehensive testing or work with specialty laboratories?
- Patient reviews and referrals from trusted sources
- Willingness to work with your preferences and pace of treatment
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple naturopathic doctors before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a naturopathic doctor can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$200-$500
Follow-up Visit
$100-$250
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Insurance coverage for naturopathic doctors varies significantly by state and insurance plan
- States like Washington, Oregon, Vermont, and Connecticut mandate some level of naturopathic coverage in health insurance plans
- Many naturopathic doctors operate on a cash-pay or direct-pay model and do not bill insurance directly
- Some insurance plans offer out-of-network benefits that can be applied to naturopathic visits - ask your ND for a superbill to submit
- Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) can be used for naturopathic doctor visits and prescribed treatments
- Laboratory testing may be covered by insurance even when the naturopathic visit is not - many NDs work with labs that bill insurance directly
- Some employers offer wellness benefits or integrative medicine riders that cover naturopathic care
- Ask about payment plans, package pricing, or sliding scale fees - many naturopathic practices offer these options
Medicare Information
Traditional Medicare (Parts A and B) does not currently cover naturopathic doctor services. Naturopathic physicians are not recognized as covered providers under Medicare, meaning visits, treatments, and testing ordered solely by an ND are typically not covered. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer limited complementary medicine benefits that could include naturopathic services - check your specific plan. Patients using Medicare typically pay out-of-pocket for naturopathic care, though FSA/HSA funds may be applied if you have these accounts.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your naturopathic doctor is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Naturopathic Doctor
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking a naturopathic doctor:
Where did you complete your naturopathic medical education, and are you licensed in this state?
What is your experience treating my specific condition with natural approaches?
How do you approach my condition, and what treatments do you typically use?
What testing do you recommend and why? Will any of it be covered by my insurance?
How long do you expect treatment to take before I see improvement?
Do you have prescriptive authority if pharmaceutical medications become necessary?
How do you communicate with my other healthcare providers?
What are the costs for visits, testing, and supplements, and do you offer payment plans?
Are there any potential interactions between your recommended treatments and my current medications?
How often will I need to come in for follow-up visits, and what happens between appointments?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
Naturopathic Doctor vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs. Here's how naturopathic doctors compare to similar specialists:
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about naturopathic doctors is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and the following authoritative organizations:
Last updated: December 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a naturopathic doctor (ND) and a naturopath?
A licensed naturopathic doctor (ND or NMD) has completed a 4-year graduate-level program at an accredited naturopathic medical school, passed board examinations (NPLEX), and holds a state license. A 'naturopath' or 'traditional naturopath' typically refers to practitioners who may have correspondence or online training without accredited medical education. In licensed states, only NDs who meet educational and examination requirements can legally practice as naturopathic doctors. This distinction is critical - always verify that your practitioner graduated from a CNME-accredited school and holds state licensure where required.
Can naturopathic doctors prescribe medications?
Prescriptive authority varies significantly by state. In some states (like Arizona, Oregon, Washington, California, and others), licensed NDs have varying levels of prescriptive authority for pharmaceutical medications, including some controlled substances with additional DEA registration. In other states, NDs may only prescribe natural therapeutics or have no prescriptive authority. Many NDs prefer to use natural approaches first but will prescribe medications when necessary for patient safety or when natural options haven't been effective. Ask your ND about their prescriptive authority in your state.
Is naturopathic medicine evidence-based?
Modern naturopathic education includes rigorous training in evidence-based medicine, research methodology, and critical appraisal of scientific literature. Many naturopathic treatments have growing research support, particularly in areas like clinical nutrition, botanical medicine for specific conditions, and mind-body approaches. Licensed NDs are trained to integrate the best available evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences. However, some traditional naturopathic practices have less research support than others. Quality NDs are transparent about what is well-studied versus based on traditional use or clinical experience.
Do naturopathic doctors work with conventional medical doctors?
Yes, collaborative care is a core principle of modern naturopathic medicine. Many NDs work in integrative medicine settings alongside MDs, DOs, and other providers. Even in independent practice, NDs regularly communicate with patients' other healthcare providers, refer to specialists when appropriate, and coordinate care for complex conditions. NDs are trained to recognize when conventional medical intervention is necessary and to refer urgently when indicated. The best outcomes often occur when naturopathic and conventional approaches work together.
Are naturopathic doctors licensed in every state?
No, as of 2025, approximately 29 states, territories, and the District of Columbia license or register naturopathic doctors. Licensing states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and others. In unlicensed states, anyone may call themselves a naturopath, making it especially important to verify credentials. If you're in an unlicensed state, look for practitioners who completed accredited training even if licensure isn't available. Legislative efforts continue in many unlicensed states.
What conditions are best treated by a naturopathic doctor?
Naturopathic doctors excel at treating chronic conditions, particularly those with complex underlying causes or where conventional treatment focuses mainly on symptom management. Strong areas include digestive disorders (IBS, SIBO, food sensitivities), hormonal imbalances (thyroid, adrenal, reproductive hormones), chronic fatigue, autoimmune conditions, metabolic issues (pre-diabetes, high cholesterol), allergies, skin conditions, anxiety and depression, women's health concerns, and general preventive care. NDs also provide excellent support as adjunct care for cancer patients and those with complex chronic diseases.
How long does naturopathic treatment take to work?
Treatment timelines vary based on the condition, its duration, and individual factors. Acute conditions may respond quickly (days to weeks), while chronic conditions that developed over years typically require months of treatment to see significant improvement. Most patients notice some initial improvements within 4-8 weeks, with continued progress over 3-6 months or longer. NDs work to set realistic expectations and monitor progress through follow-up visits and repeat testing. Addressing root causes takes longer than suppressing symptoms, but the results tend to be more lasting.
Are supplements prescribed by naturopathic doctors safe?
Licensed NDs are trained in the safe use of nutritional supplements and botanical medicines, including knowledge of proper dosing, contraindications, drug-nutrient interactions, and quality considerations. They typically use professional-grade supplements that undergo third-party testing for purity and potency. However, supplements can interact with medications or be inappropriate for certain conditions, which is why working with a trained provider is important. Always inform your ND of all medications you take, and let your other doctors know about supplements you're taking.
Can naturopathic doctors order laboratory tests?
In states where NDs are licensed, they can order laboratory tests including standard blood work, comprehensive panels, specialty functional medicine testing, imaging studies, and other diagnostics appropriate for their scope of practice. NDs often order more comprehensive testing than conventional providers, looking at optimal ranges rather than just disease cutoffs, and including functional markers that assess how body systems are working. Many NDs work with specialty laboratories that offer testing not commonly available through conventional labs.
What's the difference between a naturopathic doctor and a functional medicine doctor?
Naturopathic doctors complete specific 4-year naturopathic medical programs and have a distinct philosophy rooted in six principles emphasizing natural healing. Functional medicine is an approach that can be practiced by various practitioners (MDs, DOs, NDs, DCs, NPs) who take additional functional medicine training, often through the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM). There's significant overlap in approach - both seek root causes and use similar testing - but naturopathic medicine includes additional modalities like botanical medicine and homeopathy. Many NDs incorporate functional medicine frameworks, and some describe their practice as functional naturopathic medicine.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.
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