We represent a thoroughly rational, evenhanded balance of tradition, science and respect for nature, mind, body and spirit. Naturopathic medicine's rebirth in the last quarter of the twentieth century has also resulted from a growing consumer movement to solve the health care puzzle using prevention, wellness and respect for nature's inherent healing ability. These fundamental, unifying principles of naturopathic medicine can be identified in disciplines as diverse as constitutional hydrotherapy and homeopathy, as well as those more traditional in the Western view of health care, such as nutrition and botanical medicine. In the District of Columbia, naturopathic physicians must register in order to practice. Legislation was passed in Puerto Rico, but the licensing structure is not yet in effect.
Legal provisions allow the practice of naturopathic medicine in several other states.
Efforts to gain licensure elsewhere are currently under way. Thirty-four states and territories in the United States have professional associations for naturopathic medicine. Naturopathic physicians are also recognized in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan. All states and provinces with licensure laws require a resident course of at least four years and 4,100 hours of study from a college or university recognized by the state examining board. An applicant must satisfy all licensing requirements for the individual state or province to which they have applied as well.