This July, more than 600 naturopathic physicians, students and integrative health allies gathered in Indian Wells, CA—and virtually from across the U.S.—for the 40th Annual Convention of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP). Against the backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, the gathering marked a historic milestone for the profession: four decades of clinical innovation, advocacy, education and community.
The convention’s theme, The Heart of Naturopathic Medicine, struck a poignant chord throughout the weekend, offering space to reflect on the profession’s evolution while embracing its expanding role in the broader health care ecosystem. The programming was grounded in naturopathic medicine’s core values: whole-person care, individualized treatment and identifying and addressing the root causes of disease.
Advancing Knowledge, Supporting Practice
The AANP 2025 Convention featured three days of clinical education, practice management sessions and professional networking designed to equip today’s naturopathic doctors (NDs) for tomorrow’s health care challenges. Programming ranged from evidence-based updates on botanical and nutritional therapeutics to emerging insights into mind-body medicine, oncology support, hormonal health and environmental toxicity.
Attendees engaged in expert-led lectures, case-based discussions and skill-building hands-on workshops. Sessions examined both time-tested modalities and newly published research, reflecting naturopathic medicine’s commitment to drawing from both traditional wisdom and modern science.
A highlight for many was Friday’s Mentorship Afternoon, which included the second annual ND Career Fair, roundtable case reviews and structured networking designed to cultivate intergenerational exchange. Early-career clinicians and students had the opportunity to connect with experienced physicians, offering a space for both practical guidance and professional inspiration.
This blending of clinical rigor with community-building underscores the profession’s unique position: rooted in a deeply humanistic model of care, while actively engaging with the evolving scientific landscape.
A Hub for Innovation and Industry Collaboration
A significant aspect of the AANP Convention is its robust exhibit hall, and this year was no exception. Nearly six dozen companies and organizations were represented—ranging from nutraceutical and botanical supplement manufacturers to diagnostic labs, professional dispensaries, medical malpractice insurance providers and patient service platforms tailored specifically for naturopathic practice.
For companies seeking to collaborate with licensed NDs and integrative practitioners, the AANP Convention—as the largest U.S. gathering of NDs—continues to be one of the most targeted, high-impact venues to engage with the profession. The exhibit hall bustled with activity, offering meaningful, one-on-one conversations with physicians who are actively shaping integrative care delivery in their communities.
For supplement companies in particular, the convention offered a unique opportunity: direct access to clinicians who prioritize evidence-based natural medicine, value practitioner-grade products, and serve a patient base that seeks personalized, natural approaches to health. With many NDs also serving as formulators, educators and clinical researchers, the AANP Convention fosters valuable dialogue that can inform product development and clinical application.
Celebrating Leadership and Legacy
The opening ceremony of the convention served as a poignant tribute to the pioneers and foundational values at the core of naturopathic medicine. Through heartfelt reflections from key founders, attendees revisited the origins and driving purpose behind the creation of the AANP and the deliberate efforts to define naturopathic medicine as a unique, vital profession. The ceremony powerfully highlighted the development of guiding principles and the Therapeutic Order, framing them as cornerstones of clinical practice and professional identity. An evocative recitation of the Naturopathic Physician’s Oath, led by its original author, underscored the deep intentionality and meaning behind each word spoken. Altogether, the event inspired renewed reverence for the profession’s roots and a call to honor and uphold the philosophies that distinguish naturopathic medicine and continue to shape the future of the profession. To find out more about the core principles of naturopathic medicine, visit https://naturopathic.org/page/AboutNaturopathicMedicine.
Looking Ahead
This year’s 40th Annual Convention did more than celebrate a milestone. It demonstrated the enduring relevance of naturopathic medicine in an era where patients increasingly seek whole-person, integrative care. From rising demand for sustainable health solutions to the expanding presence of NDs in hospitals, interdisciplinary clinics and policy discussions, the profession is well-positioned to play a larger role in shaping the future of health care.
The AANP remains committed to supporting that future through continuing education, advocacy and practice-building resources. As we turn the page on this landmark year, we invite the integrative health community—physicians, students, researchers and industry leaders alike—to continue walking with us. Together, we can advance a vision of care that is effective, equitable and grounded in the heart of naturopathic medicine.
Save the Date
The 2026 AANP Annual Convention will take place July 16-18 in Madison, WI. Visit https://naturopathic.org/page/2026SavetheDate for more information.
Taryn Ernest is the communications director for the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP), the professional membership association advancing the recognition of licensed naturopathic physicians to transform access to whole health naturopathic medicine in the US. With more than nine years of dedicated service to the AANP, Ernest directs all communication efforts related to the Association’s initiatives, events and advocacy, effectively engaging a diverse membership of licensed naturopathic doctors. Ernest brings a passion for impactful communication to her role, overseeing the association’s marketing and communications strategies. Her efforts have enhanced the visibility and reach of the naturopathic medical profession. Prior to joining the AANP, she gained valuable experience in advertising and marketing, equipping her with a well-rounded expertise in strategic communication and outreach.
