Topeka ? Kansas’ top health regulator says naturopaths should be regulated and licensed by the state.

The report by Secretary of Health and Environment Clyde Graeber was hailed as a victory by naturopathic physicians who say they have been practicing in legal limbo.

Even so, supporters of naturopathy say legislative approval of state licensure still will be an uphill climb.

“The naturopaths have certainly jumped through the hoops they are supposed to. Now they have to jump through one more,” said state Sen. Susan Wagle, R-Wichita.

Naturopathy is the treatment of disease using natural products and therapies. Trained naturopathic doctors complete four years of college and four years of advanced work at one of four accredited naturopathic colleges in the United States.

Supporters say licensing would protect the public by screening out improperly trained practitioners.

The move is opposed by the Kansas Medical Society because licensing may require insurance companies to pay for their services.