Herbal Remedies For Parkinson's

Parkinson's disease is a chronic and progressive disease associated with the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells. The National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Stroke states, Parkinson's disease usually develops in people over the age of 50, and the early symptoms of this disease are subtle and come on gradually. If you have Parkinson's disease, you may benefit from taking herbal remedies. However, you should always discuss treatments with your doctor before using them to help your condition.

Parkinson's Disease

MayoClinic.com states, there is no known cause of Parkinson's disease, although several risk factors may increase your chances of developing this condition, including genetic factors, environmental triggers and low levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your body. There are several characteristic symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease, including pill-rolling tremor, slowed movements, rigid muscles, decreased balance, decreased facial expressions, speech changes and dementia. If you have Parkinson's disease, you may also develop depression, sleep problems and constipation.

Herbal Remedies

According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," degenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, are often induced by the build-up of toxins in your body. Certain herbs are known for their detoxifying properties and their ability to help treat Parkinson's disease, including burdock root, dandelion root, ginger root, milk thistle, cayenne, goldenseal, mullein, Siberian ginseng, yarrow, hawthorn, licorice, red clover, sarsaparilla, yellow dock, black cohosh, catnip, lemon balm, ginkgo and holy basil.

A Commonly Used Herb

Siberian ginseng is a commonly used herb in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. The American Cancer Society states that Siberian ginseng may improve your immune system, boosts your energy and physical prowess, heightens your memory and concentration and helps you recover from illness more quickly. Siberian ginseng has adaptogenic properties, which means that it helps your body adapt to stressful situations, both internal or external. Siberian ginseng is a shrub that grows throughout Siberia, Korea, China and Japan.

Suggestions

Nutritional and lifestyle changes may also help treat your Parkinson's disease. Increasing your fiber intake and eating more foods that contain the amino acid phenylalanine -- such as almonds, fish, pecans and pumpkin seeds -- may be beneficial, while decreasing your overall protein intake may help you control your coordination and motor movements. Passive and active range of motion exercises and moderate daily aerobic activity can help you maintain normal tissue tone and function. Herbal remedies, nutrition and exercise are important aspects of your Parkinson's disease treatment plan.