Why do doctors hate naturopathy?

Why is there such a strong, cold disconnect whenever you mention the "N" word (naturopathy) to medical doctors? My girlfriend and her mom have seen naturopaths for years, and whenever they even hint at something they were told by one to an MD, the doc clams up, or tells them (politely or not) that it's all bullshit/malarkey/witchdoctory/etc..

Why the strong resentment?

And please, if you're a rabid follower of naturopathy, spare me any conspiracy theories and hate-based reactions. Ideally, I'd like the opinions of MDs, if possible.

Thanks.

I am an MD.

Allopathic medicine (the evidence-based medical science practiced by MDs) accepts only diagnoses and treatments that are supported by controlled scientific research. We only give advice and treatments that we can prove are effective.

MDs do not say that alternative heath remedies (naturopathy, chiropractic kineseology, etc.) are automatically shams. In each case, either the evidence supports the treatment (accupuncture is shown to help with chronic pain syndromes), it is harmful (green tea extract for weight loss can cause a stroke in patients with hypertension) or there is just no research or proof either way.

The last scenario is most common. Naturopaths often recommend treatments that have not undergone controlled trials. They make health recommendations based on personal experience, anecdotal stories, gut instinct, commonly accepted perception... anything except evidence.

In summary, MDs do not hate naturopaths. We do not trust or recommend treatments that cannot be proven to be safe and effective. The moment naturopaths agree to use only herbal remedies that have undergone controlled trials, you will see MDs starting to embrace them (and even recommend their treatments).