Parkinson's Disease is a progressive brain disorder, mainly affecting how people control their movements. It may cause shaking (tremors), stiffness, and problems with balance and walking. As it progresses, it may also affect mental functions, causing issues like memory loss or confusion, which are often seen in later stages.
This condition is linked to loss of nerve cells in a part of the brain which regulates movement. These cells produce dopamine, a chemical that sends messages to the part of the brain responsible for movement and coordination. The production of dopamine decreases with Parkinson's progression, causing symptoms of the disease.
Parkinson's Disease generally starts after the age of 60, but it may start earlier and it is more prevalent in males compared to females. The symptoms and severity of Parkinson's can vary and doctors have classified the disease into stages. It usually starts mildly and gets worse over time.
Stage One: The symptoms are mild and usually do not hinder day to day activities. Symptoms are often seen on one side of the body only.
Stage Two: Symptoms get worse and daily tasks become harder and more time-consuming. Symptoms are often on both sides of the body.
Stage Three: This middle stage leads to considerable loss of balance and slowness of movements. Falling becomes more common.
Stage Four: Symptoms get more severe and limiting. You can stand without assistance but may need a walker for movement.
Stage Five: This is the most advanced and debilitating stage. The individual might not be able to walk or even stand. Full-time assistance is needed to handle daily activities.
In Ayurveda, most Parkinson's Disease symptoms are analogous to those of "Kampavata", as stated in Ayurvedic literature. This term describes a disorder of Vata dosha (the energy that governs movement and flexibility in the body) that shows symptoms similar to Parkinson's Disease. This ancient view supports restoring balance to the body as a means of managing symptoms effectively.
When certain nerve cells in the brain stop functioning properly or die, Parkinson's Disease develops. The main cause of Parkinson's Disease isn't entirely understood but scientists believe it to be a combination of environmental and genetic causes.
Genetic Factors: Sometimes, specific genetic changes are linked to Parkinson's Disease. About 10% of total cases are believed to be related to genetic mutations in families. This is more likely if the disease starts before age 50.
Environmental Triggers: Some toxins or environmental factors may increase the risk for Parkinson's. They include:
Pesticides & herbicides: Chemicals used in farming may increase the risk.
Heavy metals: Other influences may include exposure to metals including mercury and lead.
Industrial chemicals: Certain chemical substances used in manufacturing, such as solvents, are associated with a heightened risk of Parkinson's Disease.
Age: The greatest risk factor is age. Individuals with Parkinson's are typically over 60 years old, and growing older could contribute to the deterioration of nerve cells.
Gender: Men are considered to be more prone to Parkinson's Disease compared to women, but the reason for this particular gender distinction isn't clear.
Head Injuries: Some evidence indicates that frequent head injuries or serious head trauma could raise the risk of Parkinson's.
Rural Living: Rural living with exposure to more pesticides and well water has been linked to an increased risk of the disease.
Parkinson's Disease primarily affects movement, but it also includes various other non-motor symptoms that affect quality of life. Symptoms develop gradually and early signs could be so mild that they go unnoticed. These symptoms may become more severe with progression of the disease.
Motor symptoms include those involving movement and muscle control in Parkinson's Disease. Here are the motor-related symptoms of Parkinson's Disease:
Often noticeable as trembling or shaking in a limb, usually in the hand or fingers, when resting.
This reduces mobility and makes everyday tasks difficult or slows physical movements. People may take smaller steps or drag their feet while they walk.
Rigidity in the muscles may occur anywhere in the body and could restrict range of motion and trigger pain.
Postural instability may cause balance problems leading to increased risk of falling.
There is a decrease in spontaneous movements, such as blinking or swinging the arms while walking.
While non-motor symptoms do not affect movement, they are important. Here are the non motor-related symptoms of Parkinson's Disease:
Speech Changes: Speech may become softer, faster, or may slur. The usual alternations in pitch and emphasis become more monotonous.
Writing Changes: Writing may be difficult and handwriting may appear small and cramped (micrographia).
Mental Health Problems: Typical mental health symptoms include depression and anxiety.
Cognitive Decline: Problems with memory and thinking may occur, sometimes even leading to dementia.
Sleep Disorders: Issues such as insomnia, restless legs syndrome and REM sleep behavior disorder are common.
Sensory Changes: There might be loss of sense of smell (anosmia) and altered sense of taste.
Autonomic Dysfunction: This can include constipation, bladder problems, sexual dysfunction and orthostatic hypotension, i.e., drop in blood pressure when standing up.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Parkinson's Disease treatment via evidence-based Ayurvedic approaches. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
HACCP certified Ayurvedic medicines: These are scientific blends formulated to balance the body and stabilise emotions.
Yoga, Meditation & Mindfulness: These calming practices promote mental health and complete wellbeing.
Ayurvedic Therapies: Therapies like Panchakarma and therapeutic massages detox the body and promote emotional balance.
Dietary & Lifestyle Changes: Expert advice on changing your diet and lifestyle for better health results.
Ayurveda provides various natural remedies to manage Parkinson's Disease symptoms. These remedies work on balancing the energies of the body and improving overall health. Many natural herbs in Ayurveda possess regenerative and neuroprotective qualities that can be particularly helpful to Parkinson's patients.
Mucuna Pruriens (Kapikacchu): This herb contains natural levodopa (L-DOPA), which replenishes dopamine levels that are reduced in Parkinson's Disease. Also, it has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory functions that can help in enhancing mood, reducing involuntary movements (dyskinesia), boosting cognitive functions and libido.
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera): Ashwagandha has adaptogenic properties and is known to relieve stress and inflammation. It supports neurological health in general and its stress-reducing qualities are especially useful for anxiety and depression related to Parkinson's Disease.
Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri): Brahmi improves cognitive functions such as memory and concentration and is thus used for neurological disorders. It helps maintain cognitive function, which may benefit individuals with cognitive decline due to Parkinson's Disease.
Ginkgo Biloba: This herb is known for its neuroprotective effects and boosting blood circulation to the brain. Ginkgo Biloba is used to slow the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's Disease by supporting cognitive health and memory.
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa): Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, which can be beneficial in safeguarding brain cells from harm and reducing inflammation due to Parkinson's Disease.
Ginger (Zingiber Officinale): Ginger is high in antioxidants and helps lower inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common problems in Parkinson's Disease.
Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica): Gotu Kola is believed to relax the nervous system and support mental clarity. It helps with cognitive functions and neurological health and is used to manage Parkinson's Disease symptoms.
Triphala: A traditional Ayurvedic formula based on three fruits - Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki - Triphala detoxifies the body and supports digestive health.
Guggul: This resin is used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce pain and stiffness due to Parkinson's Disease and is known to improve mobility and quality of life.
Shankhpushpi: This Ayurvedic herb helps with brain function, stress relief and memory improvement. It's particularly helpful because of its neuroprotective properties and management of cognitive disorders in Parkinson's Disease patients.
Jyotishmati: Known for its ability to repair neural damage, Jyotishmati helps ease the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease by restoring function and reducing symptom severity.
The loss of dopamine producing neurons in the brain is believed to be the main cause of Parkinson's Disease, however the reason for this particular cell loss is not completely understood.
There is still no known cure for Parkinson's Disease, but Ayurvedic medicines, treatments and lifestyle modifications can help manage the symptoms of this condition.
Ayurveda diagnoses Parkinson's based on physical symptoms, patient history and an imbalance in the body's Vata dosha rather than through lab tests.
Regular detoxification, balancing Vata through diet and lifestyle and use of natural herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi can help maintain neurological health and prevent symptoms.
Recommended exercises for Parkinson's Disease include Yoga and Tai Chi as they promote flexibility, balance, and relaxation, managing motor symptoms and mental health.
Avoid cold and raw foods, too bitter and astringent foods and processed foods which may increase Vata and aggravate symptoms.
Yes, stress can worsen the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease by disrupting balance in the body. Stress can be managed through meditation, yoga or other relaxation methods.
Ayurveda uses holistic treatments using natural herbs, diet adjustments and therapies like detoxing massages and Panchakarma to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Early signs of Parkinson's Disease include subtle tremors, small changes in handwriting, reduced facial expressions and difficulty walking.
Genetics can play a role, but the majority of cases are sporadic. Having a family member with Parkinson's does put you at a greater risk.
A consistent daily routine of waking up early, light exercise and eating Vata-balancing foods can help manage Parkinson’s symptoms.
