Natural Health: What can my mum do to ease Parkinson's symptoms?

Megan Sheppard: "As you will be aware, Parkinson’s is both chronic and progressive — meaning that the trembling increases and spreads, often making even the most mundane and straightforward daily tasks difficult. While this is a movement disorder, it is also very emotionally and mentally challenging."

My mum was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease over a year ago, aged 68. She is on medication and overall is doing well, though she sometimes struggles with fine motor skills. Are there safe, natural treatments she could take alongside her medication?

Parkinson’s disease is the result of a gradual degeneration process of the nerve cells in the region of the brain responsible for the control of body movements. Early indicators can include stiffness and weakness in the limbs, and a slight tremor of the hand at rest. 

In some cases, the medication can be quite effective in managing the symptoms. The earlier the treatment, the more successful the outcome typically is. It is worth visiting the Parkinson’s Ireland website (parkinsons.ie), which offers a wealth of support and information if you haven’t already.

As you will be aware, Parkinson’s is both chronic and progressive — meaning that the trembling increases and spreads, often making even the most mundane and straightforward daily tasks difficult. While this is a movement disorder, it is also very emotionally and mentally challenging.

While we don’t know exactly why certain individuals develop this disease, we understand that a rapid loss of dopamine (the chemical messenger responsible for smooth, purposeful muscle activity) is at the root of Parkinson’s. Some lifestyle tweaks may help your mum, including what foods and supplements to avoid.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) interferes with the action of Parkinson’s medication (Levadopa or L-Dopa), so if your mum is taking a high dose of the vitamin as a supplement, she should stop.

Processed foods, coffee, tea, sugar, tobacco, and alcohol are also best avoided, along with artificial sweeteners, flavours, and colours, since they can all be hyper-stimulating for a nervous system that is already overstressed.

Broad (fava) beans contain natural levodopa, but levels vary widely and are typically much lower than medication doses. As they can interact with Parkinson’s medications, it’s important to seek medical advice before adding large amounts to the diet.

Given that constipation can be a common side-effect, psyllium hulls are a recommended source of fibre.

As far as physical therapies go, physiotherapy, acupuncture, reflexology, craniosacral therapy, and osteopathy have all shown some benefits in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s.

Some supplements may help. GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric Acid) is an amino acid that helps to strengthen and relax the nervous system. It is usually recommended at 500mg, three times daily.

NADH (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogen) is an enzyme that helps to improve neurotransmitter functioning. Your mum would need to take 25mg twice daily. If this is not suitable, she might want to look into Phosphatidylserine (PS), a lipid thought to have similar properties (recommended dosage: 50mg, three times daily).

Note: Before making any supplementary, lifestyle, or dietary changes, consult your doctor or medical consultant first.

I was in an accident at the start of the year and broke my leg. It’s slowly recovering, but I still need a crutch to get around. I find it frustrating as I am usually a very active person. I’m a man in my mid-60s. Is there a remedy you could suggest?

You might benefit from Weleda’s homoeopathically prepared Arnica Symphytum products, both topically and as an internal remedy. 

Arnica helps resolve deep tissue trauma, while symphytum (comfrey, or knitbone) supports the repair and regeneration of tissue and bone.

Bone healing can be delayed by smoking, consuming alcohol and fizzy drinks, and taking some anti-inflammatory medications. Smoking can cause broken bones to take nearly twice as long to heal, while alcohol and carbonated beverages have been shown to inhibit calcium absorption. New-generation NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), particularly when used long-term, can not only stall healing, but also prevent bones from fully healing.

NOTE: The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.