Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the central nervous system, which affects the nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine. The disease involves a degeneration of the part of the brain called the substantia nigra, or “dark substance”. This part of the brain makes the chemical dopamine.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, meaning that it communicates messages between nerves (in this case different parts of the brain). The messages that it communicates have to do with movement and coordination. Symptoms typically begin when about 80% of the dopamine in the brain is lost. The disease is named after the English doctor James Parkinson, who published the first detailed description in 1817. Parkinson’s disease symptoms include muscle rigidity, tremors, and changes in speech and gait.
Can Parkinson’s disease be cured in Ayurveda?
Proper treatments for Parkinson’s can help relieve symptoms, but there is no cure. Having doses of dopamine externally can help reduce and delay the symptoms.
Mucuna pruriens, a tropical plant is a natural source for dopamine. The seed powder of this leguminous plant, has long been used in traditional Ayurvedic Indian medicine for diseases including Parkinson. The seeds contain high concentrations of levodopa, a direct precursor of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Zandopa contains Mucuna pruriens and can be taken for long term use by Parkinson’s patients. With appropriate treatment, the patients can keep working and enjoy active life for many years.
Mucuna Pruriens is considered to be a very safe herb to use. Even at very high doses used in research, side-effects have only included stomach upset and diarrhea (these side effects are infrequent). These are usually not a concern at lower dosages.
Zandopa Powder is readily available, economical, and an effective alternative for the treatment of Parkinson’s.
Along with Zandopa treatment, Parkinson’s patients should take their time to do their activities throughout the day and not hurry up. If exercise and activities get difficult on some days, they should not get discouraged.