Naturopathic medicine was born over 110 years ago by its founder Dr. Benedict Lust, ND, MD, and has been an eclectic system of health care since then. Naturopathic Medicine is the art and science of stimulating the body's natural healing processes. At the heart of Naturopathic Medicine is a vital partnership between the patient and their naturopathic doctor in order to address the fundamental causes of disease rather than merely masking symptoms. Patients are empowered to take responsibility for their own health by removing barriers to wellness through dietary and lifestyle changes while receiving treatment and guidance from their naturopathic doctor along the way. Ultimately, this revolutionary health care approach helps patients to achieve the level of health and wellness that allows them to get the most out of life.

The practice of Naturopathic Medicine integrates traditional natural therapies with the latest scientific research. Accurate diagnosis is accomplished through comprehensive health history consultation, thorough physical examination, and modern laboratory testing. After this information is gathered, an effective and unique treatment plan is developed for each patient by a licensed naturopathic doctor. Whether the nature of condition is acute or chronic, the holistic approach of Naturopathic Medicine promotes improved health of the body, mind, and spirit.

In the United States and Canada, a licensed Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) has been trained in a four-year, full-time program at an accredited naturopathic medical school. Licensed naturopathic doctors are skilled primary-care professionals with extensive academic and clinical training with respect to the therapeutic uses, contra-indications, possible adverse reactions, and toxicities of natural remedies. The Minnesota Association of Naturopathic Physicians maintains a current listing of licensed naturopathic doctors practicing in Minnesota.