BSC in Traditional Naturopathy

This innovative BSc in Traditional Naturopathy program is a response to the growing demand for a high quality theoretical and practical instruction in the art and practice of naturopathy. Naturopathy is a holistic approach to health, based on the principle that the body has the inherent ability to heal itself. Using the healing power of nature and gentle therapeutic techniques, the body, mind and emotions are supported during the healing process. Naturopathic principles are based on the treatment of each person as an individual and the treatment of the whole person, not just the affected area.
The core naturopathic techniques include dietary therapeutic, lifestyle advice, hydrotherapy, the use of compresses and packs, soft tissue manipulation, and psychotherapeutics such as flower essences. They also include alternative diagnosing techniques like Applied Kinesiology and Iridology as well as Homeopathy and TCM lessons.

The course is structured to support your intellectual, professional and practical skills development. Much of this is achieved through the use of themes that run through the modules and across levels. So in addition to specific knowledge and skills required in Naturopathy the course integrates clinical skills development, health sciences, personal and professional development.

The course is practice-orientated but it also encourages practitioner self-development and research mindedness. It is aimed for the student seeking a career in the profession as a naturopath as well as for practitioners who want to deepen their knowledge and skills in naturopathic approaches to integrated healthcare.

Twenty four (22) modules

Twenty four (22) modules must be completed successfully for the degree to be awarded. A total of 180 ECTS credit points must be attained for the degree to be awarded. Upon enrolment, studies may commence within a few days; at which point you will be contacted by email with an access code for an orientation course in academic writing. Course materials for your first modules will be sent to you not later than 3 weeks following acceptance of your enrollment (usually sooner). All studies required to achieve the degree, may be undertaken in the country where you live.

The course is divided in 3 parts :

A) MEDICAL LESSONS – 7 lessons

These are the lessons :

1)Anatomy and Physiology 1

2)Anatomy and Physiology 2

3)Biochemistry

4)Microbiology and Parasitology

5)Pathophysiology 1

6)Pathophysiology 2

7) Introduction to Pharmacology

B) CORE NATUROPATHY MODULES – 13 lessons

1) History and Philosophy of Naturopathy

2) Naturopathic Methods

3) Naturopathic Nutrition 1
4) Naturopathic Nutrition 2
5) Herbal Medicine 1
6) Herbal Medicine 2
7) Iridology
8) Naturopathic Case taking, Assessment and LAB Tests

9) Introduction to TCM

10) Bach Flower Remedies and Biochemical Tissue Salts

11) Introduction to Homeopathy and Homeopathic First Aid

12) Clinical Naturopathy 1 – Cure of Diseases in a Holistic Way with Naturopathy

13) Clinical Naturopathy 2 – Cure of Diseases in a Holistic Way with Naturopathy

C ) COMPLEMANTARY MODULES – 2 lessons

A Holist approach to Mind Body wellness is rooted in the idea that emotional and psychological well-being are deeply intertwined with physical, spiritual, and social health. Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, holistic naturopathic approach consider the person as a whole. This integration helps to uncover and address root causes of distress, promoting lasting health.

 

 

This learning resource is designed to educate the student in the importance of the mind-body relationship which is a very important concept in Natural Medicine. This will help you develop counseling skills alongside learning theoretical material.

2)Medical Ethics

SUBJECT DESCRIPTIONS

A) MEDICAL LESSONS

1)Anatomy & Physiology (1)
Anatomy and Physiology is an introduction to human structure and function. It is the foundation for all future studies. It covers musculoskeletal anatomy in depth as well as a good introduction to the study of human anatomy and physiology. The student embarks on a comprehensive study tour of the body and gains an understanding of how feedback systems contribute to homeostasis. Subjects covered here are :

Introduction to the Human Anatomy and Physiology, the Chemistry of Life, Cell Structure, Cellular Metabolism and Reproduction, the Integumentary System, the Skeletal System, the Articular System, the Muscular System as well as an introduction to the Nervous System.

2)Anatomy & Physiology (2)

Building on the knowledge gained from Anatomy & Physiology 1, this learning resource provides a more detailed study of the human body. I

Students gain understanding on issues like : A more detailed study of the Nervous system which includes the anatomy and structure of the Brain, the Cranial nerves, the Autonomic Nervous System and the Senses, the Endocrine System, the Blood, the Cardiovascular System, the Lymphatic System, Nutrition and  the Digestive System, the Respiratory System, the Urinary System and  the Reproductive System.

3)Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the chemistry of biomolecules, human metabolism and the complex reactions that occur in a living being. This course covers an introduction to the cell structure, chemical and physical properties of nucleotides, amino acids, protein structure and metabolism; kinetics and enzyme mechanisms; metabolic circuitry; glucose transport and metabolism; pyruvate metabolism; the TCA cycle; electron flow and Ox-Phos; glycogen metabolism; gluconeogenesis and the pentose shunt.

Also: fatty acid catabolism and synthesis; disposal of nitrogen: the urea cycle; amino acid catabolism and synthesis; structure and metabolism of nucleic acids, DNA replication and repair; transcription and its control; RNA processing and translation.  Knowledge of biochemistry is essential for an understanding of human nutrition and when seen in this light the student will appreciate its necessity in relation to the preservation of health.

 

 

4)Pathophysiology 1

Pathophysiology 1:

Pathophysiology refers to the scientific study of how diseases affect the systems of the body, causing functional changes that can lead to health consequences.  The student will learn how naturopathic integrative methods can be effective in addressing symptoms of illness  preventing the development of further problems that could severely affect the patient’s outcome.

Subjects covered here are :

*Cell and Tissue Function issues like: Cellular Responses to Stress, Injury, Inflammation,  Genetic and Congenital Disorders and Neoplasia.

*Integrative Body Functions issues like Disorders of Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Balance and also Stress and Adaptation

*Hematopoietic Function issues like Disorders of Red and White Blood Cells and Lymphoid Tissues.

*Circulatory Function issues like Disorders of Blood Flow and Pressure, Cardiac Function and Heart Failure.

*Respiratory Function issues like Control of Respiratory Function, Neoplasms, and Childhood  Disorders. Disorders of Ventilation and Gas Exchange.

*Kidney and Urinary Tract Function issues like Disorders of Renal Function the and Lower Urinary Tract.

5)Pathophysiology 2

Building on the knowledge gained from Pathophysiology 1, this learning resource completes the presentation of Pathophysiology for Naturopaths.

Subjects covered here are :

* Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Function issues like Disorders of Gastrointestinal Function, Disorders of Hepatobiliary and Exocrine Pancreas Function

*Endocrine System issues like Disorders of Endocrine Control of Growth and Metabolism, Diabetes Mellitus and the Metabolic Syndrome.

*Nervous System issues like Pain, and Headache, Disorders of Neuromuscular Function, Disorders of Brain Function, Disorders of Special Sensory Function.

* Genitourinary and Reproductive function issues of the Male and Female Genitourinary System.

*Musculoskeletal Function issues like Trauma, Infections, Neoplasms, and Childhood Disorders, Metabolic and Rheumatic Disorders

*Disorders of Skin Integrity and Function and more.

 

 

6)Microbiology & Parasitology

Medical Microbiology is a central discipline in the medical sciences and is concerned with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of microbiology applicable to the health professions. Throughout this course, considerable emphasis is laid on the medical aspects of Microbiology. It examines the biology of bacteria, viruses’ fungi and parasites including their structure, metabolism, epidemiology, structure and classification.

It includes lessons on the mechanisms of innate immunity, normal human flora, pathogenesis of infectious diseases, antimicrobial therapies and drug resistance of microorganisms, sources of tranmisions and infection, microbiological lab techniques, immunization and the emerging infections. It includes a concise yet comprehensive study of all the important microorganisms that infect humans.

7) Introduction to Pharmacology

This course introduces the subjects of pharmacology and toxicology. Its purpose is to give to the student the required knowledge which will help them evaluate the herb-drug interactions as well as the drug-nutrient interactions when they practice nutritional therapy or herbal therapy. 

You will learn how drugs affect the body, how they alter disease processes and how they might produce toxicity. Medications specific to various diseases and disorders will be studied emphasizing desired effects, side effects, and contraindications.

B) CORE NATUROPATHY MODULES

1) History and Philosophy of Naturopathy

This Lesson will familiarize students with the History and Philosophy of Naturopathy.

Subjects included in this lesson:

Early Medicine, the Historical Development of Naturopathy, Scientific and unscientific medicine, Limitations of Modern Medicine, Complementary Medicine, the development of Naturopathy in the United States, the Eclectic Schools and Philosophies, the basic philosophy of homoeopathy, the  introduction  of  the  ‘scientific  medicine concept’ into the U.S.A , the Flexner Report, Benjamin Lust, Father Kniepp and the Germanic influence, the founding concepts of Naturopathy,  the influence of Lindlar and Kellogg, the Hygienic System, the first introduction of physical culture into health programs.

Zone Therapy and Acupressure, the emergence of the AMA and the demise of the Naturopathic Schools in U.S.A, the blossoming of alternative medicine from 1924 till 1938, the re-emergence of a forceful AMA and the lack of support for Alternative procedures, the emergence of naturopathic Philosophies in the 1960’s, Vitalism and Mechanism, Comparing scientific and unscientific philosophies, Vis Medicatrix Naturae.

Linda Pensky’s philosophies of Naturopathic Medicine, the Cheraskin’s model of disease, illness and homeostasis, the importance of prevention in the appreciation of naturopathic medicine, the distinction between the natural and biomedical paradigm, the English perspective in naturopathy, the contribution of Seyle and the general adaption syndrome, the naturopathic Triangle, the new naturopathic techniques, the nature of disease.

2)Naturopathic Methods

In this lesson students will learn about the most important naturopathic methods. These include Detoxification procedures and protocols, Toxemia as a course to disease, Constitutional Hydrotherapy, Clay and Mud, Exercise, Air, Ozone and Breathing, Microbiome and Intestinal Therapy, Naturopathic Nutrition, Naturopathic Supplementation, Rest and Sleep, Exercise, Fasting and more. In this module the students will also study  Dr. Jensen’s Detoxification System which is the definitive work on the relationship of intestinal flora to tissue health as well as the work of  one of the Pioneers of Naturopathy, Dr Henry Lindlahr who was the author of one of the cornerstone texts of American naturopathic medicine, Nature Cure.

3)Naturopathic Nutrition 1
These courses will address the principles of holistic nutrition, including the role of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other nutrients in the human body. It introduces the student to the importance of sound nutrition. Among the key areas that we will cover are : food philosophies, vitamins, minerals, proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates and fats, nutritional requirements, enzymes, food evaluation, chemicals, additives, toxicants, antioxidants, drug nutrient interactions, food hypersensitivity/intolerances, ageing and longevity, food combining, acid-alkaline balance etc.

With knowledge in this field doubling every two years this is one very popular subject in which aspiring practitioners must keep up to date. This learning resource includes excellent reference texts. Upon the completion of this course students will have a very good understanding on how nutrition, lifestyle and environment affect health and how nutrition can prevent and heal illness.

It includes a presentation of the food types presenting issues like, Fiber, Phytonutrients, Flowers, Bee and Flower Pollen, Fruits, Vegetables, Grains, Seeds, Nuts, Oils, Dairy Products, Seafood, Poultry and Eggs, Red Meat Seasonings, Beverages.

It also includes an introduction to various types of diets like Cultural Diets, Western Diets, Western and Eastern European Diets, Mediterranean Diets, Asian Diets, Diets in Other Countries, Tropical Diets, Halal and Kosher.

4)Naturopathic Nutrition 2
The first subject covered in this lesson is a presentation of Special Supplements: Antibiotics, Anti-inflammatories, Antioxidants, Bone and Joint Strengtheners, Circulatory Aids Detoxifiers, Digestive Support.  

Life Stage Programs like (for Example) Infants and Toddlers (Birth through 3 Years), Childhood (4 through 12 Years),  Adolescence (13 through 18 Years), Adult Men, Adult Women, Pregnancy,  Lactation, Menopause and Bone Health, The Later Years (65, 70, and Older).

Performance Enhancement Programs like Antiaging: The Longevity Program, Anti stress, Skin Enhancement, Sexual Vitality, Athletes, Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and more.

Medical Treatment Programs like Fatigue, Viral Conditions, Weight Loss, Mental Health issues.

Detoxification and Cleansing Programs: General Detoxification, Nicotine, Alcohol, Caffeine, Utilizing Detoxification for Health, Fasting and Juice Cleansing

Presentation of various types of popular diets like Carbohydrate Diets, The Atkins Diet, The Zone Diet, Blood type diet, Raw food Diet, Vegetarian Diet, Ceto Diet, intermittent Fasting, DNA Diet-Nutrigenomics, Paleo Diet and Vegan Diet.

Naturopathic Nutrition 1 is a prerequisite for this learning resource. 

5)Herbal Medicine 1
Herbal Medicine is the most widely respected topic than any other branch of Natural Medicine. It has a long tradition in all cultures and it is becoming ever more popular, as more people seek out qualified herbalists.   This course incorporates the aspects of herbal medicine relevant to the development of theoretical and practical function of medicinal herbs. 

The history of herbalism encompasses methods and principles of herbal medicine, growing, gathering and drying herbs, remedy preparation and herbal first aid, herb harvesting and preserving. The student will obtain the necessary knowledge on herbal therapeutics for musculoskeletal, digestive, nervous, immune, endocrine, respiratory, reproductive, urinary, Cardiovascular and skeletal systems. 

6) Herbal Medicine 2
Herbal Medicine 2 provides advanced knowledge essential for the herbal specialist. This course includes the use of Aromatherapy for the preservation and restoration of health, as well as the study of popular widely used therapeutic herbs like Medicinal Cannabis, Aloe Vera, Olive Leaf Extract and the use of Adaptogenic herbs

7) Iridology
Iridology is the study of the patterns on the iris the colored part of the eye. Studying the Iris the student can distinguish between healthy systems and organs in the body, the systems that are overactive, inflamed, or distressed.  The iris patterns can demonstrate a person’s susceptibility towards specific diseases, show past medical problems, or indicate certain health conditions.  Iridology can show inflammation signs in the body, how an organ or gland will react to illness, and genetic patterns one may tend to develop, like heart problems, issues with the pancreas, thyroid, adrenals, reproductive organs, and the liver. This module offers everything the naturopathic practitioner will need to begin using the iris as a holistic health screening tool. It is structured in a way that the knowledge acquired by the student will help him plan an individualized naturopathic program to improve the health of the patient.  The first iridologists were Homeopaths and treated their patients with homeopathy and herbal medicine.

8) Introduction to Chinese Medicine (TCM)

This course will teach students the fundamentals of Chinese medicine. The lesson introduces the basic concepts, theories, and methods that underlie the practices of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

This course provides the students with an understanding of the rich and fascinating fundamental theories of TCM, including the history of TCM, the theory of Yin-Yang, the theory of Five Elements, the theory of Qi, blood and body fluids, the theory of Zang-Fu organs, and the theory of meridians and collaterals. TCM etiology and pathogenesis, diagnostic techniques (four examinations), preventive measures, and principles of treatments will also be introduced to the students. In this lesson we will cover the subject of Food Energetics in TCM.

9) Naturopathic Case taking, Assessment and LAB Tests

In this Lesson the students will be familiarized with Naturopathic Assessment as well as the basic diagnostic tools a Naturopath is using. Topics include : Rules of Naturopathic case taking and Questionnaire, Evidence – Based Clinical Diagnostic techniques, Urine Testing, Gastrointestinal palpation, Basic Functional Blood Analysis, Skin Diagnosis, Nail Diagnosis, Tongue Diagnosis, Hair Mineral Analysis and Applied Kinesiology. The students will also use the knowledge they acquired from the Introduction to TCM & Iridology lessons.

10)Dr. Bach Flower Remedies and Dr. Schuessler’s Biochemical Tissue Salts

Nearly 100 years ago Dr. Edward Bach discovered 38 wildflowers that positively affect our emotions.  Flower essences are extremely diluted extracts from flowers that can restore emotional balance and promote joy and happiness for humans and their animal companions.  The use of Flower essences for therapy is a vibrational therapeutic method similar to homeopathy. The process actually imbues a tincture with the energetic signature of the plant or the plants which are used for their production. This course will give you knowledge on the history, use and effects of flower essences. You will study in-depth each of the standard flower essences and how to use them for therapeutic purposes. You will also learn how to use combinations of essences in order to treat health problems holistically.

Dr. Schuessler’s Tissue Salts (also known as biochemical cell salts) are potentized micro-doses of the essential minerals your body needs to repair and maintain health. Dr. Schuessler found that the ability of the body to utilize nutritional material is impaired when there is a tissue salt deficiency. He also concluded that if the body became deficient in these essential minerals, the deficiency caused an abnormal or diseased condition. To Dr. Schuessler,

a symptom was merely a distress signal, warning that a body constituent was missing and when restored, the body condition returns to normal.  This course is an introduction to tissue salts therapy.

11) Introduction to Homeopathy and Homeopathic First Aid:

Homeopathic medicine is based on the principle of “like cures like.” It is the second most used Traditional medical system in the world. It is a complete holistic system combining theory and practice to support healing and treat a wide range of conditions on the physical, mental, and spiritual levels. 

Introduction to Homeopathy provides the fundamentals necessary for both first aid and acute homeopathic care.  Areas of study include Philosophy, Diagnostics, Terminology, Homeopathic First Aid as well as an Introduction to the Homeopathic Methodology, Diagnostics and Materia Medica.

12) Clinical Naturopathy 1 – Restore Health Holistically with Naturopathy

In this Lesson the students will learn how to treat certain diseases using all the tools they have as a Naturopath with an emphasis on Nutritional Therapy, Supplements and Herbs.

In this module students will be provided with a detailed description of symptoms of certain pathological conditions and they will be given solutions on how to treat these conditions with Naturopathy.

The subjects that will be covered include :

Gastrointestinal and Respiratory system disorders like Irritable bowel syndrome, Sibo, Constipation, Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, Food allergy/intolerances

Respiratory Infections, Immune Insufficiency Disorders, Asthma, Congestive respiratory disorders.

Cardiovascular Disorders,  Atherosclerosis and Dyslipidemia, Hypertension, hypocholesteremia, Stroke, Chronic Venous Insufficiency.

Nervous System Disorders, Clinical Depression, Chronic Generalized Anxiety, and Insomnia.

Endocrine System Disorders like Adrenal exhaustion, Diabetes type 2, Thyroid abnormalities.

Female reproductive system issues like Dysmenorrhea, Menstrual Complaints, Endometriosis, Polycystic ovarian syndrome, Menopause.

 

13) Clinical Naturopathy 2 – Restore Health of Disease Holistically with Naturopathy

This is the second Clinical Naturopathy lesson.

Subjects covered will include:

Musculoskeletal and Integumentary system disorders,

Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia, Acne vulgaris, Inflammatory Skin Conditions—Atopic Eczema and Psoriasis,

Urogenital system Disorders, Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection.

Specialized Clinical Conditions, Autoimmunity and Cancer

Clinical Naturopathy across the life cycle , Paediatrics, Fertility, preconception care and pregnancy, Ageing and cognition.

Bipolar disorder, Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder(ADHD), Chronic fatigue syndrome, Human immunodeficiency virus, Polypharmacy and pain management.

C ) COMPLEMENTARY MODULES

 

14)  Mind-Body Therapy in Naturopathy

Mind-Body  Therapy, emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body using cognitive-behavioral techniques, biofeedback, mindful breathing, guided imagery, yoga, meditation, and stress management.  This will help the student develop counseling skills learning theoretical material.

 

The role of mind-body therapy in naturopathy goes beyond symptom management; it encompasses education, empowerment, and prevention. Patients learn to listen to their bodies, recognize signs of imbalance, and cultivate healthy lifestyle habits that support their overall well-being. This proactive approach aligns with the fundamental principles of naturopathy, focusing on the body’s innate ability to heal itself when provided with the right tools and support.

In essence, mind-body therapy serves as a vital component of naturopathic care, bridging the gap between traditional medicine and holistic healing practices.

Subjects covered: Introduction to health psychology, Health beliefs, Illness cognitions, Doctor–patient communication and the role of health professionals’ health beliefs. The experience of treatment, the psychological aspects of Pain, Smoking, Alcohol use, Eating behavior, Exercise.

 

15) Medical Ethics

This module addresses focuses on the goals of many practitioners to secure a firm place for their practice in health care systems and to establish levels of integration.
The scope of our study encompasses a range of current concerns over complementary and alternative medicine, many of which raise ethical issues relating to quality of care. We will also focus on professionalism, how practitioners must respond to the public’s concerns, especially in light of the public’s rising expectations of standards of care among all practitioners. We will also study case histories plus commentaries suitable for private study or classroom discussion.
This module includes:

·       an examination of current issues in complementary/alternative medicine and bioethics

·       explorations of other approaches to ethical dilemmas including “bottom-up” ethics such as consequentialism and social utilitarianism plus feminist ethics, virtue ethics, and more

·       informed discussion of public expectations of professional roles and responsibilities

·       case histories that illustrate ethical issues

·       explanations of the Hippocratic Oath and complementary and alternative medicine codes

·       an examination of the power structure within health care systems.

 

16) Naturopathic First Aid

This module consists of two parts. One is the Emergency Care Support (First Aid-CPR-AED) and the other is dedicated to treating minor first aid conditions with Natural Medicines.

First Aid is the immediate care given to an injured or suddenly ill person. It does not take the place of proper medical care. It consists only of providing temporary assistance until competent medical care, if needed is obtained or until the chance of recovery without medical care is assured. Properly applied first aid may mean the difference between life and death, between a rapid recovery and a long hospitalization or between the temporary and a permanent disability. First Aiid involves more than doing things for others. It also includes care that people can provide in an emergency for themselves.

Naturopathic first aid is the ideal to complement to conventional first Aid treatment as it is presented in books like Red Cross and St John Ambulance First Aid Books.

The students are guided on how to assemble a basic naturopathic first aid kit and a specialized travel sport kit.

 

17) THE MICROBIOME’S CRUCIAL ROLE IN OVERALL HEALTH:

Understanding the Gut Microbiome: The gut microbiome is a vast ecosystem of microorganisms residing in our digestive tract, playing a pivotal role in digestion, immune function, and mental health. When this delicate balance is disrupted, it can lead to a myriad of health issues, from gastrointestinal discomfort to systemic inflammation.

 

A healthy microbiome contains a balance of beneficial bacteria.  Most humans have between 10-100 trillion symbiotic microbial cells. Additionally, a huge portion of our immune system is in our gut.  The gut microbiome plays a key role in communicating with the nervous system (“gut-brain axis”), as proper digestion plays a massive role in our daily mood balance. A healthy microbiome supports a strong immune system, heart health, brain health, improved mood, healthy sleep, systemic circulation, liver function, and optimal digestive health.

 

Naturopathy offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to preventing and treating gut microbiome disorders, supporting the body’s innate healing capacity, restoring harmony to the gut and promoting overall well-being.  Naturopaths work closely with patients to identify underlying imbalances through comprehensive assessments, including thorough medical history reviews and specialized testing. 

 

18: ENVIROMENTAL MEDICINE: Detoxifying the body in a toxic world

Naturopaths are to advise patients on how to reduce their exposure to environmental toxins by making informed choices about the products they use and the environments they live in. These lifestyle modifications can significantly lower the toxic burden on the body and support long-term health.  We follow detoxification protocols supporting the body’s natural processes.

 

Awareness continues to grow of the impact of environmental toxins on health.  The field of environmental medicine offers valuable insights and strategies for reducing toxic exposures and supporting the body’s detoxification processes. By integrating dietary, herbal, and lifestyle strategies, naturopathic therapeutics provides a comprehensive approach to detoxification that addresses the root causes of toxin-related health issues.  Using tested detoxifying protocols requires a multifaceted approach that includes reducing exposure to environmental toxins, supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, and making informed choices about the products and environments we interact with daily. By adopting these naturopathic strategies, individuals can significantly reduce their toxic burden and promote long-term health and well-being.