Is There an Alternative Natural Treatment for Parkinson's?

Parkinson's disease affects the central nervous system. It is marked by the destruction of nerve cells in the brain responsible for controlling movement. It cannot be cured and symptoms will worsen over time. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center and alternative health expert Dr. Andrew Weil, natural therapies can potentially relieve symptoms and slow the advancement of Parkinson's disease. They are best used as a complement to standard therapies.

Reducing Inflammation

• According to Dr. Weil, Parkinson's disease is one of the many conditions affected and worsened by inflammation in the body. Certain dietary habits can reduce the release of anti-inflammatory chemicals in the body. He recommends an anti-inflammatory diet. Antioxidant rich foods fight inflammation; eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in a variety of colors. Aim for non-meat sources of protein like whole soy foods like tofu, tempeh and soybeans, beans and whole grains. Reduce or limit your consumption of saturated fat, white flour foods and sugar. In regards to diet, limiting protein intake is important, regardless of the source; it helps your body use levodopa and carbidopa most efficiently. These vital medications increase levels of dopamine in the brain, which is vital for controlling movement in the body. Your doctor will give you guidelines on how much is appropriate.

Using Supplements

• It is very important to tell your doctor about any supplements you want to use to see if they are appropriate. If you are interested in treating Parkinson's disease with natural supplements, you should seek out a health care provider who has experience using alternative medicine for this condition. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the following supplements all showed benefit of some kind in clinical studies.

  Coenzyme Q10 (1,200 mg daily) slowed progression, particularly in the early stages of the disease. A combination of vitamin C (1,000 mg three times daily) and vitamin E (800 IU four times daily) delayed the need to start drug therapies. CDP-choline (400 mg three times a day) raised dopamine levels and allowed some study participants to reduce their levodopa dosages. Phosphatidylserine (PS) (100 mg three times a day) improved brain function and mood.

  Cowhage, a type of seed, (22.75 to 67.5 g daily in two to five doses) produced better results than the prescription levodopa used for Parkinson's disease. This study was small however. Brahmi (200 mg twice a day) enhances circulation to the brain and is good for overall mood and neurological function.

Improving Physical Symptoms

• Massage can improve circulation and reduce muscle spasms. Cranio-sacral therapy, a type of body work that concentrates on the brain and spinal column, can reduce tremors and improve general functioning.

  Certain therapies can address issues with motor skills and balance. The movement therapies Alexander Technique and the Feldenkrais Method focus on posture, balance and other aspects of proper movement.

  Yoga and Tai chi can help with balance, flexibility and range of motion while acupuncture has been shown to improve symptoms and promote better rest and sleep.