Naturopathic medicine is built upon several guiding principles, one of which is “treating the cause.” This principle emphasizes addressing the root causes of illness rather than just alleviating symptoms. By identifying underlying factors that contribute to chronic health conditions, naturopathic practitioners can promote long-lasting wellness. To illustrate this principle, let us look at two common conditions: eczema and high blood pressure (hypertension).
Understanding the Principle of Treating the Cause
At The Connecticut Center for Natural Health, we seek to uncover what lies beneath symptoms, whether physiological, psychological, lifestyle-related, or environmental. In conventional medicine, the primary goal is often to relieve symptoms to improve quality of life. While this is crucial, solely focusing on symptoms can mask underlying issues. Naturopathic medicine, on the other hand, holds that symptoms are clues pointing toward deeper, unresolved issues. By uncovering and addressing these root causes, naturopathic medicine aims to resolve health concerns at their source and minimize the need for ongoing treatments.
- Eczema—Addressing Inflammation and Gut Health: Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. It is often treated symptomatically with moisturizers, steroids, and antihistamines to manage the itch and discomfort. However, when eczema is viewed through a naturopathic lens, the underlying causes, such as inflammation, immune dysregulation, and gut health, are explored more deeply.
- Inflammation and Immune System Imbalance: Inflammation as a root contributor to eczema. Chronic inflammation can arise from various sources, including dietary triggers, stress, and environmental factors. Identifying specific food intolerances or allergies, such as to dairy or gluten, and removing these from the diet can significantly reduce the inflammatory response. Additionally, stress has been shown to exacerbate inflammation, so stress-reduction techniques, including mindfulness or acupuncture, can support eczema treatment.
- Gut Health and Microbiome Imbalance: There is a strong correlation between gut health and skin health. An imbalance in gut bacteria, also known as dysbiosis, has been linked to eczema. Our approach involves restoring gut health. For example, foods high in fiber – such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains – are essential to support a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn can help calm systemic inflammation and improve eczema symptoms. For more severe dysbiosis, we may suggest antimicrobial herbs to rebalance gut flora.
- Supporting the Skin Barrier Naturally: Eczema sufferers often have a compromised skin barrier. Natural topical treatments like coconut oil or aloe vera, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, can offer relief without the side effects of conventional steroid creams. These natural remedies not only soothe the skin but also provide essential nutrients to repair and
strengthen the skin barrier. Naturopathic treatment also encourages hydration through diet and adequate water intake to support skin moisture from within. - Finding and Addressing Root Causes of High Blood Pressure: Hypertension is a prevalent yet complex condition with multiple possible causes, including stress, poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predisposition. While conventional treatment often involves antihypertensive medications, a naturopathic approach seeks to identify and address lifestyle and physiological factors contributing to elevated blood pressure.
- Stress Management and Blood Pressure: Chronic stress is a significant contributor to high blood pressure. Stress activates the body’s sympathetic nervous system, increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels, which elevates blood pressure. Identifying stressors and incorporating stress-reducing practices, such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation, are foundational naturopathic strategies. Additionally, adaptogenic herbs can reduce the impact of stress on the cardiovascular system.
- Dietary Adjustments and Nutritional Deficiencies: Diet plays a critical role in managing high blood pressure. A naturopathic approach may recommend a whole-foods-based diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Increasing potassium intake through foods like bananas, sweet potatoes, and avocados can help balance sodium levels, as potassium naturally counters sodium’s effects on blood pressure.
Nutritional deficiencies, such as magnesium, can also contribute to hypertension. Magnesium helps relax blood vessels, so supplementing with magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, and seeds – or with a magnesium supplement under a practitioner’s guidance – may help reduce blood pressure. - Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health: Exercise is another effective way to manage high blood pressure, as it strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and helps manage weight. Moderate, regular exercise such as walking, swimming, or biking can support cardiovascular health, potentially decreasing the need for medication in the long term.
Integrating Naturopathic Treatment in Practice
A naturopathic approach to treating the cause emphasizes individualized treatment plans, as each person’s triggers for eczema or hypertension may vary. Comprehensive lab testing may also play a role, particularly in identifying food sensitivities, hormonal imbalances, or nutrient deficiencies that contribute to these conditions. Naturopathic practitioners focus on sustainable lifestyle changes, ensuring that recommendations can be maintained over the long term for optimal health outcomes.
For example, if a patient with eczema has an underlying food sensitivity and an imbalanced gut microbiome, eliminating trigger foods and using probiotics can help resolve the condition from within. Similarly, a patient with high blood pressure may benefit from a tailored exercise routine, stress management techniques, and dietary adjustments rather than solely relying on antihypertensive medication.
The Benefits of Treating the Cause
By addressing the underlying factors, naturopathic medicine can lead to lasting improvements. Patients often experience not only a reduction in symptoms but an enhanced sense of well-being, improved energy levels, and reduced reliance on medications. Symptom management may offer temporary relief, but treating the cause empowers patients to take charge of their health and fosters resilience against future health challenges.
Dr. Michael Kane is a Naturopathic Physician at the Connecticut Center for Natural Health in Middletown. A graduate of Bastyr University in Washington State, Michael continually learns from his patients and takes the art of listening very seriously. Connecticut Center For Natural Health is located at 210 S. Main St.
Visit: yournaturalhealth.com or call 860.347.8600.