84 Burnett St Bundaberg
These days, more and more people are turning to natural therapies to support their health.
Whether it’s herbal remedies, dietary changes, or supplements, there’s a growing awareness of how nature can play a role in our well-being. But with this rise in popularity comes a lot of misinformation—and sometimes even risks. That’s where a qualified naturopath comes in. So, what is naturopath and why should you see one?
Simply put, a naturopath is a practitioner who focuses on natural and holistic approaches to health. They work with your body’s natural healing abilities, using treatments such as herbal medicine, nutrition, lifestyle advice, and sometimes therapies like acupuncture or homeopathy.
Naturopathy is a type of natural therapy that combines nutrition, dietary and lifestyle advice with therapeutic herbal medicines. Although it is a holistic therapy, it is still rooted in research and evidence-based care.
With the internet at our fingertips, it’s easy to search for a remedy and start taking supplements without a second thought. But just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s always safe or effective.
The media has been highlighting the dangers of self-prescribing, and for good reason. Certain herbs and supplements can interact with medications or even be harmful if taken in the wrong way.
A qualified naturopath has the training and experience to cross-reference any natural treatments against the medications or health conditions you may have, ensuring they are safe and suited to your unique needs.
You wouldn’t take prescription medication without consulting a doctor first, right?
The same should apply to natural remedies. Many people assume that because something is “natural,” it’s automatically safe. But nature is powerful—just think of how potent some medicinal plants can be!
For example, St. John’s Wort is a well-known herbal remedy for mood support, but it can interfere with antidepressants and even birth control pills. Similarly, some common herbal teas can affect blood pressure or blood sugar levels.
It's also important to note that self prescribing can be a complete waste of time and money if you are not treating the right issue or are using low quality products without enough active ingredients or incorrect dosages.
Without the right knowledge, self-prescribing can do more harm than good. That’s why working with a naturopath who understands these interactions is so valuable.
A professional naturopath doesn’t just hand out supplements and send you on your way. They take the time to understand your health history, lifestyle, diet, and any medications you’re on. They create a tailored plan that considers your body as a whole, rather than just treating symptoms.
Seeing a naturopath is about personalised, well-informed care. It’s about making sure that what you put into your body is genuinely working for you, not against you. If you’re interested in natural health, the best thing you can do is consult someone who is qualified and experienced. Your health is too important to leave to guesswork.
Natural remedies can be incredibly beneficial, but they need to be used wisely. The media is right to warn against the risks of self-prescribing, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid natural therapies altogether. Instead, the key is to seek guidance from a professional who knows how to navigate the complexities of natural medicine safely and effectively.
So, if you’re considering supplements, herbs, or other natural therapies, do yourself a favour—book a consultation with a qualified naturopath. Your body will thank you for it!
About Trish (Adv Dip Nat, Adv Dip Nutr, Adv Dip Herb)
Trish Robertson is our Naturopath, Nutritionist and Herbalist at Burnett House. As a practitioner, she is passionate about working with women who are suffering from fatigue, high stress levels, digestive issues and hormonal imbalances.
Book online with Trish here.
