My Personal Journey to Natural Healthcare

When I was in my early 20’s I was very lucky, and I made a small fortune (to me). With the money, I embarked on a lengthy journey of discovery that led me across the world. For three years, I lived out of a backpack and visited many exotic lands. I was curious about history, geography and religion so I wanted to see the world firsthand. I spent 6 months in southeast Asia, a year in the Himalayas, a year in Africa and then did a solo bicycle trip from Patagonia north through the Andes to the Atacama Desert. The trip was amazing, and I learned a lot.

However, when I returned home, I was very ill, and I went to the doctor. I had contracted numerous parasites, and I felt very weak. The MD ran lots of tests and sent me home with powerful antibiotics and other medicines.

Instead of making me healthier, the medications had the opposite effect. I became weaker and sicker. The well-intentioned MD then prescribed more drugs and unfortunately my condition worsened.

I became depressed and nearly bedridden. Fortunately, a friend told me about a naturopathic clinic located in Seattle. Out of desperation I went there. I hadn’t heard about natural medicine before, so I was skeptical.

The naturopath put me on potent herbal medicines and a special diet of whole foods based on my symptoms. Gratefully, my body cleared the parasites and my condition improved in a short period of time. My eyes were first opened to the power of natural medicine!

Then, after working for a few years for a big multinational corporation I had a dark night of the soul. I couldn’t put my finger on it, but something was wrong. I was making great money, had a clear path for advancement, but I was deeply unhappy.

I realized there was something more for me. Through talking to God and being still I realized my purpose was to help people with natural medicine. That began my journey into the healing arts. I started working at a health food store in the vitamin section while I considered my options.

Miraculously I met a wonderful MD who became my acupuncturist. He had graduated from Harvard and was a faculty member at the University of Washington medical school. He left that all behind and became an acupuncturist. I was curious.

Through the acupuncture treatments I felt healthier and more vibrant. Though I didn’t understand it, it made me feel great and that’s when I decided to become an acupuncturist. I began my master’s program in 2000 and over the course of my career I have helped hundreds of people reverse diseases and come to life with increased vitality and joy. Natural medicine and acupuncture work with the body. They are powerful tools for health and healing. When I see patients heal and get better it makes me smile. I know I am doing what I am supposed to do.

If you’re struggling with your health and looking for answers, I’d love to help you find clarity and a path forward. Schedule your appointment today.

©2025 Vital Health

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Gregory Anderton

Greg Anderton holds a Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and is a Licensed Acupuncturist. He is additionally trained in Clinical Nutrition and Herbal Medicine. He has over 20 years of experience in natural medicine. Greg is a “Health Detective,” he looks beyond your symptom picture and investigates WHY you are experiencing your symptoms in the first place. Greg is currently accepting new patients and offers natural health care services and whole food nutritional supplements at Vital Health in Coeur d’Alene.

Medical/Health Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article should not be construed as personal medical advice or instruction. No action should be taken based solely on the contents of this article. Readers should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their health and well-being. The information and opinions provided here are believed to be accurate and sound, based on the best judgment available to the author, but readers who fail to consult appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries.

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