Naturopathic Medicine FAQs

You may call our office at (503) 894-9118 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to supporting you on your wellness journey.

When you schedule an appointment we happily reserve that time especially for you. Please kindly give us 48 hours notice to cancel any appointment. If you are unable to make your scheduled appointment, please contact the clinic at least 48 hours in advance of your scheduled time. If adequate notice (more than 48 hours) has not been provided, you will be charged $50 for a missed appointment fee up to 50% of your scheduled appointment cost. (Please be advised that the cancellation policy does vary for some providers and could require up to a week’s notice. You can confirm your provider’s specific policies with the office staff.)

Naturopathic physicians use a blend of both western medicine (laboratory testing, physical exams, can prescribe medications when necessary), in addition to alternative therapeutics (homeopathy, botanical medicine, nutritional and lifestyle counseling). We place a strong focus on disease prevention and treating the underlying cause of disease, not just the symptoms of illness. We focus on patient education and provide individualized treatment plans for each patient.

At 8 Hearts Health & Wellness, we strive to help patients understand the connections between the physical, mental and emotional aspects of their health in order to find the root cause of disease and symptoms. We are committed to keeping the patient’s best interest in mind, creating safe and effective treatment plans that are designed for each individual. We strive to empower our patients to have an active role in their health care. We support each patient as they identify and overcome their obstacles to abundant health.

Naturopathic Physicians undergo training similar to medical and osteopathic doctors. Naturopathic medical colleges are four-year postgraduate schools with rigorous admissions requirements comparable to other medical schools. The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) degree is awarded after classroom, clinic and practical study. The cumulative number of hours spent in training is 4,700, which is comparable to the number of hours medical doctors spend in medical school. ND’s are trained in medical sciences (including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology, cardiology, neurology, radiology, minor surgery, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, psychology, dermatology, and clinical and physical diagnosis), as well as, natural therapeutic methods of healing. Like many states and provinces, Oregon’s laws require extensive post-doctoral board examination for licensure. This policy is supported by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, which also maintains high standards of education and medical practice and encourages scientific research.

Yes. Research into complementary and alternative medicine has been ongoing, and is increasing since interest and awareness has created more national funding opportunities. For more information on research into natural medicine, please visit the National Institute of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Absolutely. One of the fundamental tenets of Naturopathic medicine is “First Do No Harm.” Our commitment is to help you feel better without causing harm or enduring uncomfortable side effects. Naturopathic doctors have extensive training in the safe use of botanicals, homeopathy, and supplements. Furthermore, they are trained in the interactions between natural medicines and pharmaceuticals. We recommend that people seek assistance from a qualified practitioner whenever using herbal or vitamin supplementation to ensure health and safety.

Homeopathic medicine is a subset of naturopathic science; it is one of the numerous natural treatment therapies a Naturopathic doctor is trained in and can potentially utilize when treating clients. Naturopathic treatment will often incorporate homeopathic remedies into a client’s treatment plan; however, naturopathic doctors may use more modalities than homeopathy to cure health conditions and promote optimal health.

An initial Naturopathic office visit at 8 Hearts will usually last an hour to an hour and a half. During your first Naturopathic visit at 8 Hearts, the practitioner will review your complete health history, your current health concerns, review your current medications and supplements, and discuss any medical records or lab work you bring with you. Pertinent physical examinations will be performed, and laboratory or imaging tests may be ordered.

The physicians at 8 Hearts listen carefully to your health concerns and work with you to create a treatment plan that is ideal for you. The journey towards health and wellness takes time and the process may occur in phases. During the initial visits, we discuss a clear plan and visions of your health goals, as well as, how we, as a “team”, will achieve them. We are committed to being in communication with you about your health needs and goals. You can expect to obtain a very specific and tailored treatment plan when you work with the practitioners at 8 Hearts.

Virtually all chronic and most acute conditions can benefit from treatment by naturopathic doctors. People of all ages can be helped. Common complaints seen by Naturopathic physicians include; chronic colds, flus and infections, fatigue, digestive complaints, depression and anxiety, sleep disorders, PMS, menopause, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, diabetes and weight concerns.

Below is a list of common substances that can interact with and decrease the effectiveness of your homeopathic treatment. We generally ask that these substances be avoided during treatment. If you have a question regarding your medications, supplements, or commonly used products, please contact our office directly.

Medications/Supplements:

• all other homeopathic remedies
• flower essences
• antibiotics
• steroids-including topical creams, inhalers, prednisone
• prescription pain medications

Foods:

• coffee (regular and decaffeinated), caffeinated teas ok
• mint (fresh mint, mint teas)

Household Products:

• strong fumes-gasoline, solvents
• tea tree oil and other strong essential oils-many natural bath products and natural cleaners contain tea tree oil
• camphor/menthol/peppermint
• toothpaste-all mint flavored products (cinnamon/fennel/fruit flavored ok)

Illicit Substances:

• marijuana
• cocaine
• hallucinogenics
• alcohol is ok in moderation

If you are exposed to one of the above substances, and suspect you may have antidoted your remedy, please wait at least 48 hours before re-dosing with your remedy. During this time, please observe any changes you are noticing in your physical symptoms, your mood, your sleep, etc. If after this 48 hour period, you feel your homeopathic remedy is not supporting you, please contact your 8 Hearts physician to discuss the next best step. Please do not re-dose with your remedy before speaking with your physician.