(Posted February 18, 2008)

HUNTINGDON, Pa. -- Craig Pannone, a senior studying life sciences at Juniata College from Wolcott, Conn., is the first Juniata student to be accepted to a medical school specializing in naturopathic medicine. He will start his studies at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, Canada, in the fall.

"I've always been interested in naturopathic medicine," says Pannone, the son of Stanley and Nanda Pannone of Wolcott. "I've been going to a naturopathic doctor for many years and I've always thought their focus on preventative medicine and wellness has been an important part of medicine."

Naturopathic medicine is enjoying a renaissance of sorts as more medical professionals are incorporating a natural approach to health and healing. In the early part of the 20th century, many doctors used naturopathic principles to treat patients. However, as medicine evolved, most doctors followed the accepted practice of using diagnostic equipment and pharmacological treatments to treat patients.

Naturopathic medicine is a natural approach to health and wellness that looks at the state of a person as a whole. Some of the factors naturopathic doctors evaluate are clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathic medicine and physical medicine. Asian medicine, such as acupuncture, also is part of naturopathic medicine.

Pannone became familiar with naturopathic medicine when he was treated by a naturopathic practitioner for various sports injuries. "Being an athlete, my approach is to make sure you take care of your body and health," he explains. "I like that approach in helping people to take care of themselves and their health."

Pannone has continued his athletic interests while a student at Juniata. He played on the men's soccer team for his entire college career and competed in track and field in his freshman and sophomore years.


Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.