Holistic treatments are considered complementary or alternative medicine. Acupuncture is a well-known method of holistic medicine, while naturopathy is a system of health care that integrates holistic and other natural components. Both methods focus on the importance of physical and emotional balance and the body's ability to heal without the use of synthetic medicines.
System vs. Remedy
The most obvious difference between acupuncture and naturopathy lies in each item's basic structure. Naturopathic medicine is a whole system, according to MayoClinic.com; it features several remedies and practices based on an overall philosophy. Massage, herbal treatments and counseling are all practices within naturopathy. Acupuncture -- another component of naturopathy -- is a single remedy that aims to treat a specific complaint or ailment.
Origins
Acupuncture purportedly began in China more than 2,000 years ago. It came to North America in the 1900s and became an accepted alternative to conventional medicine in the United States by the century's end. Current American practices combine elements from traditional Chinese medicine -- or TCM -- with Korean and Japanese methods, according to the National Institutes of Health. Naturopathy, though organized as a medical system in the 20th century, can be found in treatments dating back millennia. As a profession, naturopathic medicine began in 1902. Benedict Lust opened the first school of naturopathic medicine in 1905. At least 20 programs throughout the U.S. followed this institution in the next several decades.
Practice
Acupuncture is conducted with very thin needles while the patient rests on a soft table. The practitioner inserts the needles at specific locations believed to affect the area causing pain or discomfort. According to TCM, the needles affect the flow of the energy force known as chi. Western researchers believe the insertion points work on nerves and tissues, releasing endorphins to block pain. Typically, between six and 12 sessions are necessary to treat a condition. Naturopathy begins with a standard physical examination along with detailed questions aimed to determine the right treatment. Diagnostic tests, including blood work, may be conducted before the treatment plan is set. While naturopathic practitioners treat patients for specific conditions, the ultimate goal is prevention of illness. Naturopathic doctors teach their patients a lifestyle meant to keep their health in balance.
Training
Requirements for acupuncture practice vary. The American Board of Medical Acupuncture was established in 2010 to regulate certification of trained physicians in acupuncture. At least 200 hours of formal acupuncture training -- along with a medical degree for ABMA certification -- are required. Still, some acupuncture programs do not require medical training. While the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine doesn’t vet all programs, those that are regulated typically require at least two years of college courses, and some require a related bachelor's degree. The training takes about three years. Four naturopathic colleges exist in the U.S. Only students with at least three years of undergraduate study and one year of pre-med courses are accepted to these programs.
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