How to become a successful Naturopathic Physician?

This field of naturopathy is gaining more and more popularity across the globe, and even in India. One of the major reasons is that nowadays people want to escape all the side effects caused by allopathic medicines.

A doctor or a physician who practices naturopathic medicine works towards identifying the actual cause of an illness and uses the natural ability of the body to heal itself holistically. A naturopathic physician uses herbal ingredients/products, exercises such as yoga/meditation, massages, hydrotherapy and proper nutrition to bring about wellness and a healthy balance to the patient’s life.

Career requirements

Degree level	Doctoral degree
Degree field	Naturopathic physician, Chinese medicine, acupuncture, chiropractic doctor, osteopathic doctor medical doctor
Licensure	Must have an authentic license to practice medicine
Experience	2-5 years
Key skills	Keen observation, effective listening, problem-solving, ability to use medication as well as therapeutic equipment for diagnosing & administering therapeutic treatment

How to become a naturopathic physician?

A successful career in naturopathic medicine offers aspirants or practitioners with ample opportunities, a well-paying profession and respect. In India, some colleges offer courses on naturopathy at various levels such as diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate. A licensed naturopathic physician must complete a four-year programme at the graduation level. The various study areas include nutrition therapy, homeopathic medicine, acupuncture, natural childbirth, herbal/botanical medicine, etc.

Courses & eligibility criteria

The minimum eligibility criteria to study Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences (BNYS) is completing senior secondary with an aggregate of 45 per cent marks in Physics, Chemistry & Biology. However, the National Institute of Naturopathy in Pune offers a one year program known as Treatment Attendant Training Course for which the eligibility is clearing Class 10.

Career prospects

Naturopathy course is usually practiced in a combination with other medicines forms such as homeopathy, Reiki, acupuncture, etc. In our country, naturopathic physicians are also appointed in government bodies and that of private health centers or hospitals. These individuals can even start own venture if they wish to. This field of naturopathy is gaining more and more popularity across the globe, and even in India. One of the major reasons is that nowadays people want to escape all the side effects caused by allopathic medicines. Hence, there is an increasing scope of employment in the Naturopathy field.

Salary

Naturopathic physicians generally earn a lot in own clinics or establishment. Their earnings depend on the number of patients visiting them daily. Self-employed naturopaths earn approximately Rs 10,000–Rs 20,000 every month. Some get employed in private as well as government hospitals based on their strength. Presently, there are around twelve such colleges in India and their approach of Naturopathy education not only covers Yoga and Naturopathy philosophy but also focuses on the clinical tools as well as modalities necessary to establish a successful practice. Within the course, pursuing aspirants get to study holistic treatment in diversity and modalities that are completely natural in all aspects.