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Scent from Heaven Natural Health Centre

Jennifer Pottruff B.Ht, B.Sh, CCT, RH, HD

Natural Physician, Homeopathic Physician, Registered Herbalist, Certified Colon Therapist

What Is Natural Medicine?

Natural Medicine is a distinct system of non-invasive healthcare and health assessment that does not employ surgery or allopathic drugs. It is based on the theory that natural substances or processes can stimulate the body’s innate ability to heal itself. The healing power of nature and the understanding of energy form the foundation of Natural Medicine.

How Does Homeopathy Work?

Homeopathic Medicines aid the body in healing itself. A Homeopathic Doctor looks for what is different in each patient and uses their individual symptoms to find the right remedy for them. As the body heals itself, old symptoms/illnesses you may have had can return as you heal. This is the cleansing effect your body can have. These symptoms will pass and should not be treated as your body is trying to heal itself.

What are Homeopathic Medicines?

Homeopathic Medicines are made from plants, animals, and mineral substances. They are either in liquid or pill form. Pills are placed under the tongue and allowed to dissolve. Your mouth should be clean when they are taken (no food, drink or strong smelling substances-cigarettes, toothpaste, for 15 minutes before and after taking the remedy).

What therapies does a Doctor of Natural Medicine (DNM) Use?

Doctors of Natural Medicine, focus on cleansing, clearing and strengthening the body. They are trained as specialists in natural medicines and rely on counseling, education, natural medicine modalities, natural substances, including without limitation, the use of foods, food extracts, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, digestive aids, botanical substances, natural topical substances, homeopathic preparations, air, water, heat, cold, sound, light, the physical modalities of magnetic therapy, the clearing of non-beneficial energies, natural non-manipulative bodyworks, and exercise to help stimulate and maintain the individual’s intrinsic self-healing processes.

The practice of traditional Natural Medicine is the assessment of body systems and biochemical imbalances through traditional natural medicine techniques and treatments using traditional natural medicine therapies and techniques to promote maintain or restore health.

Clinical nutrition- the use of specific diets and nutritional supplements to prevent disease or re-establish the body chemistry
Botanical/herbal medicine-use for their balancing and nutritional value. Herbal Medicine is the use of plant remedies in teh treatment and prevention of disease. It is the oldest system of medicine, and is employed by more then 80% of the world's population.
Homeopathic medicine- micro-dose of natural substances for stimulating the self healing response without side effects
Physical Medicine-reflexology, exercises, hydrotherapy, and heat therapy.
Oriental Medicine-This system of medicine is not traditionally a western natural medicine healing system. It is based on balancing the flow of Chi (energy) through the meridian pathways and includes the use of therapies such as Reflexology, Su Jok, Acupressure and Oriental herbs.
Lifestyle Counseling and stress management- Natural medicine practitioners are especially trained to offer coaching and education, nutritional balancing, stress management, hypnotherapy, and biofeedback and well as counseling on lifestyle and environmental factors that affects wellbeing of individuals.
Emergency Medicine-Natural Medicine Doctors must be trained in basic emergency medicine and hold current certificate of registration.

What is Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine is an art and science that uses herbs to promote health and prevent disease and illness. It has continued to be one of the largest forms of medicine in the world since it was first written more than 5000 years ago. Approximately 75% of the worlds population still rely on Herbal Medicine. Herbal Medicines are prepared from plants which contain thousands of compounds that make the plant safer and more effective. Herbalists may use one plant or a blend of plants specifically created for each individual and their individual issues. These blends will stimulate the bodies natural healing power.

What is Massage Therapy?

The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain.
(Massage Therapy Act, 1991)

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a safe and effective natural therapy used to heal illness, prevent disease, and improve well being. Tiny, hair thin needles are inserted into specific points in the body to stimulate the body's natural healing response. Acupuncture is an effective, safe, and complimentary to medications, and even surgery for a variety of conditions and ailments.

Acupuncture relieves pain, reduces inflammation, improves the function of the immune system, balances and strengthens organs, relaxes and strengthens the muscular and skeletal systems, calms the mind to relieve anxiety and stress, increases energy, improves circulation, treats addictions, and restores balance to the entire body.

What is Aromatherapy?

The practice of Aromatherapy dates back thousands of years and is the practice of using pure essential oils derived from plants, for the well-being of the body, mind, and soul. This complimentary medicine offers a holistic and non-invasive treatment for the whole body, not just the ailment or condition it is treating. Aromatherapy includes massage, inhalation, bath and body care, and room diffusers to name a few.

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is the practice of massaging, squeezing, or pushing on parts of the feet with the goal of encouraging a beneficial effect on other parts of the body, or to improve general health.

Reflexology is a focused pressure technique, usually directed at the feet or hands. It is based on the premise that there are zones and reflexes on different parts of the body which corresponds to and are relative to all parts, glands and organs of the entire body.

When the reflexes are stimulated, the body's natural electrical energy works along the nervous system to clear any blockages in the corresponding zones. A reflexology session seems to break up deposits (felt as a sandy or gritty area under the skin) which may interfere with this natural flow of the body's energy.

Manipulating specific reflexes removes stress, activating a parasympathetic response in the body to enable the disharmonies to be released by a physiological change in the body. With stress removed and circulation improved, the body is allowed to return to a state of homeostasis.

Can Herbal Medicine Interact with Medications?

Yes they can. That is why I must have a list of the prescription & non-prescription medications, herbal remedies and supplements you are taking so I can find the appropriate gentle herbs for you that will not interact with what you may already have.

*Note: Never stop taking prescription medications without first consulting your family Doctor.

How are Registered Massage Therapists trained?

A Registered Massage Therapise is a regulated health professional who in Ontario is a member of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). To become a member of the college, the therapist must have completed a 2-3 year diploma program from a recognized school and has passed the CMTO registration exams.

Note: Registered Massage Therapists are not allopathic Medical Doctors and do not engage in any allopathic medical practice unless licensed to do so.

How are Acupuncturists Trained?

An Acupuncturist is a specialized professional. They must have certification. That means, over 1000 hours of treating clients and at least a diploma in acupuncture. A doctorate is optional but allows them to practice other methods of acupuncture. Also, always ensure that the needles they use are clean, new, and disposable. With Regulation coming into effect in the near future, Acupuncturists will have to be a Registered Member with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners & Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Note: Acupuncturists are not allopathic Medical Doctors and do not engage in any allopathic medical practice unless licensed to do so.

What are the Benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy?

There are many. By relieving the body of toxic build-up, colon hydrotherapy can dramatically improve bowel function. Whereas accumulated fecal matter promotes the growth of undesirable bacteria and their toxic by-products, a clean colon allows beneficial bacteria to proliferate. These beneficial bacteria manufacture important vitamins, including biotin, which is essential for the proper breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins and fats; cobalamin (vitamin B12), which promotes red blood cell formation and assists in the production of neurotransmitters (chemicals that transmit nerve impulses); and vitamin K, a key factor in normal blood-clotting and in the development of healthy bone structure. Beneficial bacteria also produces lactic acid, which creates an antagonistic environment for other types of unwelcome bacteria.

Toxic build-up in the colon not only upsets the balance of intestinal bacteria, it promotes mucus formation as a protective mechanism to "disable" toxic organisms. Waste and mucus become encrusted and adhere to the colon wall, preventing the proper transfer of vitamins and minerals into the body, and of waste and debris out of the body. A congested colon can have adverse effects on other systems of elimination and detoxification, such as the liver, kidneys, lymphatic system, lungs and skin, as these attempt to cope with toxic excess. What results is a loss of energy and vitality which create symptoms that can ultimately degenerate into illness.

When should one avoid Colon Hydrotherapy?

Where there are certain pre-existing conditions, it may be inappropriate to undergo colonics:

pregnancy (beyond the fourth month)
within 2-3 months of having had surgery in the abdominal or surrounding area
the presence of tumors or cysts
blood in the stool or bleeding from the anus
severe edema, renal insufficiency
any inflammation in the abdominal, rectal or anal area

These conditions cause symptoms to manifest which make apparent the need to refrain from colonics, and under no circumstances will colonics cause any of the conditions listed above to occur.

How are Homeopathic Physicians trained?

A Homeopathic Physician is a specialized professional that administers natural substances to stimulate your own defense system. Homeopathic Practitioners undergo 4200 hours of training and a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours training to become a Homeopathic Practitioner. Homeopathic Practitioners also address other issues that can lead to illness such as Nutrition, exercise, lifestyle choices, and coping mechanisms as they are Holistic Practitioners. With Regulation coming into effect in the near future, Homeopaths will have to be a Registered Member with the College of Homeopaths of Ontario.

Note: Homeopathic Physicians are not allopathic Medical Doctors and do not engage in any allopathic medical practice unless licensed to do so.

How are Doctor's of Natural Medicine Trained?

A Doctor of Natural Medicine (DNM) is a specialized professional that administers natural substances to stimulate your own defense system. A DNM undergos 4400 hours of training and a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours training to become a board certified and registered DNM with the BNMDP North America. DNM's use Botanical (Herbal) medicine, Homeopathic medicine, Nutrition, Lifestyle Counselling, & Manual therapies in their wellness plans as they are Holistic Practitioners.

Note: Doctors of Natural Medicine are not allopathic Medical Doctors and do not engage in any allopathic medical practice unless licensed to do so.

How are Registered Herbalists Trained?

A Registered Herbalist is a specialized professional that administers plant medicines to stimulate your own defense system. Registered Herbalists undergo 1100 hours of training which includes a minimum of 500 clinical hours training to become a Registered Herbalist with the Ontario Herbalists Association. Registered Herbalists also address other issues that can lead to illness such as Nutrition, exercise, lifestyle choices, and coping mechanisms as they are Holistic Practitioners.

Note: Registered Herbalists are not allopathic Medical Doctors and do not engage in any allopathic medical practice unless licensed to do so.

How are Certified Colon Therapists Trained?

A Certified Colon Therapist is a specialized professional who learns about Colon Health as well as has Nutritional training which ensures that your therapist is knowledgeable about the digestive process, the connection between food and health, and how to use food to promote wellness and healing for specific conditions. Certification as a Colon Therapist ensures that your therapist has a sound understanding of the principles, practice and application of colon hydrotherapy. Training includes the digestive system and its functions, nutrition for good health, and extensive clinical practice.

Note: Colon Therapists are not allopathic Medical Doctors and do not engage in any allopathic medical practice unless licensed to do so.

How are Aromatherapists Trained?

An Aromatherapist is a specialized professional. They have graduated from an Aromatherapy Training Program, with a minimum of 200 hours which includes training on : History of Aromatherapy, Quality and Production of Essential Oils, Anatomy & Physiology, Aromachemistry, Botany, Organic Chemistry, Contraindications of oils, How to create custom blends, Methods of Application and Massage, Consultation and treatment program design. Aromatherapists may gain Certification through the Canadian Examining Board.

Note: Aromatherapists are not allopathic Medical Doctors and do not engage in any allopathic medical practice unless licensed to do so.

How are Reflexologists Trained?

A Reflexologists is a specialized professional. Their training includes Anatomy & Physiology, History of Reflexology, Zones of the Body, Foot Examination, Reflexology Techniques, Consultation and treatment program design, Contraindications, Reflexology Foot Procedures, and a minimum of 50 hours practicum. Reflexologists may gain Certification through the Canadian Examining Board.

Note: Reflexologists are not allopathic Medical Doctors and do not engage in any allopathic medical practice unless licensed to do so.