Naturopathic medicine (also known as naturopathy, or natural medicine) is a complementary and alternative medicine which emphasizes the body's intrinsic ability to heal and maintain itself. Naturopaths use natural remedies such as herbs and foods rather than surgery or synthetic drugs. Naturopathic practice includes many, and different, treatment modalities, with practitioners emphasizing a holistic approach to patient care, and may also recommend that patients use conventional medicine alongside their treatments, if indicated.