DR. JENNA Scott’s approach to medicine is unconventional yet still embodies that conventional approach and this naturopathic physician is making waves in the world of holistic healing. Scott has returned to her roots to open a practice focusing on the body’s innate ability to heal itself.
Scott’s journey back to her hometown of Manchester was not just a physical return but a calling to pursue naturopathic medicine. She graduated from naturopathic medical school in Phoenix, Arizona, and completed her residency in Atlanta, Georgia. During her time in Atlanta, she met her husband, and they decided to move to a smaller town.
“When he would come to visit Manchester with me, he thought it was really neat how people truly knew each other, something he was not used to, having lived in Atlanta for several years,” said Scott.
Her father, Dr. Glenn Davis, is a renowned physician here in Manchester who returned to open his practice many years ago. Following in his footsteps, she returned to Manchester to open her practice.
It was a leap of faith, as she wasn’t sure how much naturopathic medicine would be warranted in a small town like Manchester, but they prayed about it and decided to move in early 2023. Scott chose to open her practice through the Serene Day Spa, offering a unique opportunity to start small and expand as her schedule became busier.
Scott’s decision to pursue naturopathic medicine was not influenced by her father but instead sparked by a biology elective course called Medical Herbalism during her undergraduate years at Lipscomb University in Nashville. This course introduced her to naturopathic medicine, igniting her passion for a holistic approach to healthcare.
“Conventional medicine is often split up into cardiology, urology, neurology, etc., whereas naturopathic doctors look at the body as a whole and aim to rebalance it through herbal medicine, individualized nutrition, health coaching, lifestyle modifications, and more,” explained Scott.
She goes on to outline the six tenets of naturopathic medicine:
1. First, do no harm.
2. The healing power of nature.
3. Identify and treat the cause.
4. Treat the whole person.
5. Preventative medicine.
6. Doctor as teacher.
Scott spotlights the importance of education in her practice, teaching patients to make healthier choices and take responsibility for their health. “Doctor comes from the Latin word ‘docere,’ which actually means teacher. A key principle of naturopathic medicine is to educate the patient and emphasize self-responsibility for health,” she said.
While Scott is passionate about naturopathic medicine, she acknowledges the challenges it can present, especially in a healthcare landscape dominated by conventional medicine. Some people resist change and are not ready to take a proactive approach to their health. Others may not be aware of naturopathic medicine and are influenced by the opinions of their primary care doctors.
“Some doctors are open to naturopathic medicine and encourage their patients to see me, while others may be more resistant due to a lack of understanding,” said Scott.
She believes that educating healthcare practitioners about the benefits of naturopathic medicine can help bridge this gap.
Scott’s practice in Manchester serves as a vital resource for the community. She plans to expand her services, including offering health foods like homemade sauerkraut and kombucha, as well as wellness services such as cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, red light therapy, and more. Her goal is to provide a comprehensive approach to holistic health and wellness for her patients.
One of Scott’s success stories highlights the transformative power of naturopathic medicine. A teacher who had been suffering from severe health issues, including joint and muscle pain, headaches, and brain fog, sought her help. After an in-depth analysis, Scott discovered that the patient had both mold toxicity and undiagnosed Lyme disease. With the right treatment and a focus on addressing the root causes, the patient was able to return to teaching after years of illness.
For Scott, hometown healing means giving back to the community that nurtured her. It’s about caring for the people she grew up with, helping them survive and thrive. Her dedication to naturopathic medicine and her commitment to educating her patients and the community shape a healthier future for Manchester, one person at a time.
“I believe there is a time and a place for medication for conventional medicine. But it’s amazing how the body can adjust and heal if toxins are removed and the right nutrients are provided. And that’s what I love to do — help people achieve their optimal health and feel their best.” GN
