naturopathic medicine, a philosophy of medicine that presumes that there is an inherent healing power in nature and in every human being. This major health system includes practices that emphasize diet, nutrition, homeopathy, and various mind-body therapies. Emphasis is placed on self-healing, treatment through changes in lifestyle, and the use of prevention techniques that promote health. Currently, 17 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have licensing or regulation laws for naturopathic doctors. In Canada, two sets of provincial licensing board exams exist.
