Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability. While modern medicine offers pharmacological and surgical interventions to manage Parkinson’s symptoms, many individuals seek alternative therapies for their treatment regimen. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a comprehensive approach to health and wellness, including natural therapies for Parkinson’s disease. Adyant Ayurveda, a renowned Ayurvedic hospital based in Bangalore recommends some natural ways to conquer this troublesome and deadly disease. Here, we’ll explore the principles of Ayurveda and examine Ayurvedic treatments that may benefit individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.
Let's understand the causes of Parkinson's Disease
While the exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is not fully understood, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Here are the causes of Parkinson’s disease:
While most cases of Parkinson’s disease are sporadic, meaning they occur without a clear genetic predisposition, a small percentage of cases have a genetic component. Mutations in certain genes, such as SNCA, LRRK2, and PARKIN, have been implicated in familial forms of Parkinson’s disease.
Exposure to environmental toxins and chemicals may increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and other environmental pollutants have been associated with an elevated risk of Parkinson’s disease in some studies.
Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the progressive degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain. The loss of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in movement control, leads to the motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.
Abnormal accumulation of alpha-synuclein protein aggregates, known as Lewy bodies, is a hallmark pathological feature of Parkinson’s disease. These protein aggregates disrupt normal cellular function and contribute to neuronal dysfunction and death.
Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
Tremors: The most recognizable symptom of Parkinson’s disease is tremor, which typically begins in the hands or fingers and may manifest as a rhythmic shaking at rest. Tremors often subside during purposeful movement and may worsen with stress or fatigue.
Bradykinesia: Bradykinesia refers to slowness of movement and difficulty initiating and executing voluntary movements. Individuals with Parkinson’s disease may experience reduced arm swing, shuffling gait, and difficulty performing activities of daily living.
Muscle Rigidity: Muscle rigidity, or stiffness, is another common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. It may affect various muscle groups, leading to stiffness in the limbs, neck, and trunk. Rigidity can contribute to difficulty with movement and impaired range of motion.
Postural Instability: Postural instability, or impaired balance and coordination, is a significant symptom of advanced Parkinson’s disease. Individuals may experience difficulty maintaining an upright posture, frequent falls, and instability when turning or changing direction.
Freezing of Gait: Freezing of gait is a phenomenon characterized by sudden, temporary episodes of immobility or difficulty initiating forward movement. It often occurs during transitions, such as starting to walk or turning around, and can significantly impact mobility and independence.
Non-Motor Symptoms: Parkinson’s disease can also cause a variety of non-motor symptoms, including cognitive impairment, mood changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, constipation, urinary problems, and sensory changes.
Loss of Automatic Movements: As Parkinson’s disease progresses, individuals may experience a loss of automatic movements, such as blinking, facial expressions, and swallowing. These changes can affect communication, facial expression, and swallowing function.
Understanding Ayurveda
Ayurveda, which translates to “the science of life,” is a holistic system of medicine that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. Central to Ayurvedic philosophy is the concept of balance and harmony among the body, mind, and spirit. According to Ayurveda, imbalances in the body’s three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—can contribute to disease and dysfunction. Ayurvedic therapies aim to restore balance and promote optimal health through lifestyle modifications, dietary changes and herbal remedies.
Ayurvedic Principles for Parkinson's Disease
In Ayurveda, Parkinson’s disease is believed to be caused by an imbalance of the Vata dosha, which governs movement, nervous system function, and coordination. Imbalances in Vata dosha can lead to neurodegeneration, impaired neurotransmitter function, and motor dysfunction characteristic of Parkinson’s disease. Ayurvedic treatments for Parkinson’s focus on pacifying Vata dosha, strengthening the nervous system, and promoting overall well-being.
Ayurvedic Therapies for Parkinson's Disease
- Panchakarma Therapy: Panchakarma treatment is a detoxification and rejuvenation therapy that aims to eliminate toxins (ama) from the body and restore balance to the doshas. Panchakarma treatments may include oil massages (Abhyanga), herbal steam therapy (Swedana), therapeutic enemas (Basti), nasal administration of medicated oils (Nasya), and dietary modifications. Panchakarma therapy can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support nervous system function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
- Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic herbs are used to support neurological health, enhance cognitive function, and alleviate symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Some commonly used herbs for Parkinson’s include Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), and Mucuna pruriens (Kapikacchu). These herbs have neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that may help slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
- Ayurvedic Diet and Nutrition: A balanced Ayurvedic diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods that are nourishing, easy to digest, and supportive of overall health. In Parkinson’s disease, dietary recommendations may include warming, grounding foods such as cooked grains, soups, stews, vegetables, and herbal teas. Ayurvedic principles also emphasize the importance of proper food combinations, mindful eating practices, and moderation in consumption.
- Yoga and Meditation: Yoga and meditation are integral components of Ayurvedic therapy and can be beneficial for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Yoga postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation techniques help promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve mind-body awareness. Regular yoga and meditation practice can enhance flexibility, balance, and coordination, contributing to improved mobility and symptom management in Parkinson’s patients.
- Daily Routine modifications: Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of lifestyle modifications to support overall health and well-being. Individuals with Parkinson’s disease are encouraged to maintain a regular daily routine (dinacharya), get adequate rest and sleep, engage in gentle exercise and movement therapies, and cultivate a positive outlook and emotional resilience. Ayurvedic lifestyle practices help promote balance, harmony, and vitality in mind, body, and spirit.
Conclusion
Adyant Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to managing Parkinson’s disease, focusing on restoring balance and harmony to the body, mind, and spirit. By incorporating Ayurvedic therapies such as Panchakarma, herbal remedies, dietary modifications, yoga, meditation, and lifestyle adjustments, individuals with Parkinson’s can enhance their quality of life, alleviate symptoms, and promote overall well-being. As with any medical condition, it’s essential to work with qualified healthcare professionals and Ayurvedic practitioners like Adyant Ayurveda to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses individual needs and goals. With its ancient wisdom and wholesome perspective, Ayurveda offers hope and healing for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.
FAQ's
Which Ayurvedic medicine is best for tremors?
Herbs that could be beneficial for tremor patients include Dasamoola(a mixture of 10 roots), Bala, Mandookparni, Brahmi(Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi, Sarpagandha(Rauwolfia serpentina), and Jyotismati etc.
What are 3 treatments for Parkinson’s disease?
3 renowned therapies for Parkinson’s disease are:
⦁ Ayurvedic therapies
⦁ Medications
⦁ Surgery
How do you stop Parkinson’s from progressing?
Mobilising movements, especially exercises that promote balance and reciprocal patterns may stop the progression of this disease.
What foods are high in dopamine for Parkinson’s disease?
Due to the presence of high tyrosine content (the building blocks of dopamine), bananas and watermelon are excellent suppliers of dopamine. When it comes to Parkinson’s, vitamin C has a lot of advantages and can lessen symptoms.