N.D.s also use ultrasound, diathermy, exercise, massage, water, heat and cold, and gentle electrical therapies. Clinical observation indicates that it works on a subtle, yet powerful, energetic level, gently acting to strengthen the body's healing and immune response and triggering a healing process. Where single chemically-derived drugs may address only a single problem, botanical medicines are able to address a variety of problems simultaneously. They offer prenatal and postnatal care using modern diagnostic techniques. The naturopathic approach strengthens healthy body functions so that complications associated with pregnancy may be prevented.
Oriental medicine is a healing philosophy that is complementary to naturopathic medicine.
Meridian theory offers an important understanding of the unity of the body and mind and adds to the Western understanding of physiology. Acupuncture provides a method of treatment that can unify and harmonize the imbalances present in disease conditions, which in turn stimulates the immune system and the healing response. Counseling, nutritional balancing, stress management, hypnotherapy, biofeedback and other therapies are used to help patients heal psychologically. Naturopathic practice also includes the use of any medical substances that contain elements that are components of bodily tissues or can be employed by the body for the maintenance of life and the repair of tissues as well as all methods of diagnostic testing and imaging, including X-ray and ultrasound. The current scope of practice excludes major surgery and the use of many synthetic drugs.