Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition characterized by tremor, impaired coordination and slowness of movement. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, many patients with Parkinson's disease have difficulty walking and talking and cannot perform simple tasks easily. Parkinson's disease occurs when dopamine-producing nerve cells die. Dopamine is neurotransmitter and is essential for normal movement and coordination. There is no cure for Parkinson's disease, but several FDA-approved drugs may alleviate symptoms. Alternative medicines may also be used to improve quality of life; however, they should only be used following medical advice and should not be used instead of traditional medicine, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Nutritional Supplements
Some nutritional supplements may be helpful in alleviating symptoms of Parkinson's disease. According to Mayoclinic.com, research has suggested but not confirmed that taking high doses of coenzyme Q10 may help slow the progression of Parkinson's disease. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that taking a cytidinediphosphocholine supplement may increase dopamine levels in the body. An active form of vitamin B3 known as NADH may also increase dopamine levels. Taking high doses of vitamins C and E may help postpone the need for medication. Patients considering using any nutritional supplements should always speak to theur doctor first, as they may interact with any medicine they are taking.
Herbs
Herbs are an effective way of strengthening the body's systems, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, a doctor should be consulted before using herbal supplements. The antioxidant ginkgo biloba may help to deliver dopamine to the brain when taken at a dose of 80 mg, twice per day. The Ayurvedic herb brahmi may increase the circulation of blood to the brain, and studies suggest that it can also improve mood and cognitive function. According to a 2005 research paper published in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine," an extract from the Ayurvedic herb Mucuna pruriens may be an effective treatment for Parkinson's disease.
Homeopathy
Homeopathic medicines may help alleviate some symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine centered on the concept that 'like cures like' and has been used for hundreds of years. Homeopathic medicines can be used alongside conventional drugs and will not interfere with their action, says the Society of Homeopaths. Examples of homeopathic drugs that may be helpful for Parkinson's disease include argentum nitricum, mercurius vivus and zincum metallicum. A homeopathic doctor should be consulted before using homeopathic medicines to ensure the most suitable treatment is chosen.
References
- NINDS: NINDS Parkinson's Disease Information Page
- UMMC: Parkinson's Disease
- Mayoclinic.com: Parkinson's Disease Alternative Medicine
- Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine: An Alternative Medicine Treatment for Parkinson's Disease: Results of a Multicenter Clinical Trial. HP-200 in Parkinson's Disease Study Group
- The Society of Homeopaths: What is Homeopathy?
