Alternative Medications for Parkinson Disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive degenerative disease that currently has no complete cure. It is a debilitating condition that results from low levels of the chemical dopamine in the brain. Commonly patients that suffer from Parkinson's disease are given prescription medication to help level the amount of dopamine in the brain, thereby counteracting the effects of the disease somewhat. Alternative forms of treatment and medicine that can be taken to help cope with Parkinson's.

Coenzyme Q10

• Levels of coenzyme Q10 are often lower in those suffering from Parkinson's and it is thought that taking supplements of Q10 may help offset this imbalance and alleviate some symptoms of the disease. There is inconclusive evidence as to the medical relevancy of such claims, but coenzyme Q10 nonetheless remains one of the more popular recommendations of alternative treatment for Parkinson's. Q10 is also relatively easy to obtain, as it is sold over-the-counter as a supplement in most vitamin and dietary supply stores. There is some risk involved and caution to be exercised, though, when taking coenzyme Q10 for Parkinson's. The recommended dose thought to have any significant effect on symptoms is approximately 1,200 mg per day. Most experts on alternative medicine therapy and supplementary therapy recommend that a daily dose of coenzyme Q10 is about 90 mg. Unlike traditional prescription medicine, this is not a health-related set guideline but more of a suggested healthy amount. Therefore there is not a huge risk of dangerous overdose but it is still something that should be supervised and discontinued if any further health problems occur.

Tai Chi and Yoga

• These two forms of exercise and stretching are often used as an alternative treatment for Parkinson's patients for the same reasons and as such are interchangeable as far as which will give the best results. Since Parkinson's is a degenerative disease, over time it lessens you ability to control your own body. This is why a main sign of Parkinson's is uncontrollable shaking or tics. Tai chi and yoga are designed to improve balance and flexibility through slow, choreographed movements. Because of the nature of the movements and poses involved, they can be tailored to a patient's specific age, strength and ability. This makes this treatment perfect for patients suffering from any stage of Parkinson's. By improving balance and flexibility, the exercises put you in more control of your body and can over time help a Parkinson's patient regain some of the previously uncontrollable movements. Furthermore, tai chi and yoga are excellent stress relieving activities and can help patients slow down and calmly focus on controlling their muscles and body.

Ayurvedic Medicine

• Ayurvedic medicine is an ancient Indian medicinal practice that aims to improve the bodies health by improving a number of things from strength and balance to diet and mental strength. Ayurvedic medicine is still practiced by many experts around the world and makes use of several alternative medicines and treatments to help fight Parkinson's. Forms of yoga and other exercise are used to regain strength and balance and to counteract the degenerative effects of the disease. In addition, a natural herbal remedy called mucuana puriens is often used specifically on those suffering from Parkinson's disease. This herb has been found to contain many of the same natural ingredients and medicinal properties of synthetic prescription medicine given to Parkinson's patients.