Numerous herbs may help treat Parkinson's disease. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, or NINDS, Parkinson's disease is a progressive motor system disorder that causes a loss of dopamine-producing cells in your brain. The NINDS says you have a greater likelihood of developing Parkinson's if you're older than 50. Before taking herbal remedies to help treat your Parkinson's disease, consult with your physician about possible side effects and proper dosage. There is no known cure for Parkinson's disease. These remedies may or may not improve the condition.
Cowhage
Cowhage, also known as Mucuna pruriens or kapikachu, may help treat Parkinson's disease. According to the Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products, cowhage is one of the most popular medicinals of India. Cowhage helps compose more than 200 indigenous drug formulations. It's found in bushes and hedges in dry, lowland forests throughout the plains of India and elsewhere on the Indian subcontinent. All parts of the plant possess important medicinal properties, Purdue University says. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, cowhage contain levodopa, or L-dopa, which makes this herb a possible anti-Parkinson's disease drug. The UMMC says cowhage produces better results in Parkinson's disease patients than L-dopa given as prescription medication. Do not take cowhage without your physician's supervision, especially if you are already taking prescription L-dopa.
Brahmi
Brahmi, also known as Bacopa monniera, is an Ayurvedic herb that may help treat symptoms associated with Parkinson's. Ray Sahelian, a medical doctor, nutrition expert and author, says brahmi is native to India, where it grows in marshy areas. In the United States, brahmi is a familiar water plant commonly used in aquariums. In traditional preparations, most parts of the plant are used. However, Western preparations of this herb use only extracts from its stem and leaves. According to the UMMC, studies suggest that brahmi improves circulation to your brain, along with improving your mood, cognitive function and general neurological function. Brahmi extracts may have significant antioxidant effects on your brain and protect your brain cells. Before taking brahmi to treat Parkinson's disease-related symptoms, consult your physician for proper dosage and possible side effects.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba, or ginkgo, is an herb that may help treat Parkinson's disease. According to MayoClinic.com, ginkgo biloba has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Ginkgo is one of the top-selling herbs in the United States and is used to treat a wide spectrum of conditions, including Parkinson's disease. A 2004 study by M. S. Kim and colleagues published in the journal "Phytotherapy Research" says standardized extracts of Ginkgo biloba may offer neuroprotective effects in rats, and that ginkgo may help treat Parkinson's disease. According to the UMMC, taking 80mg ginkgo two times per day can improve blood flow to your brain and may help with dopamine delivery. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, is decreased in people with Parkinson's disease. Before taking ginkgo to help treat Parkinson's disease, discuss possible side effects and proper dosage with your doctor.
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: What is Parkinson's Disease?
- Purdue University: Kapikachu or Cowhage
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Parkinson's Disease
- MayoClinic.com: Ginkgo
- "Phytotherapy Research"; Neuroprotective Effect of Ginkgo Biloba; M. S. Kim et al.; October 2004
