Ayurvedic practice is founded on the belief that good health is enjoyed when there is a balance between three fundamental bodily humours, or ‘doshas’, known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each of these doshas has certain attributes or body-mind types, and our individual dosha make up - and so our traits, likes and dislikes - is determined by that of our parents at the time of conception. We are generally a combination of the three doshas, although there is usually a dominant one, and when they are in equilibrium, as they are when we are born, a perfect state of health may be enjoyed. But if they become imbalanced, as may happen for many reasons, our health and behaviour will be affected. 

• Vata is the driving force which mobilises the function of the nervous system and relates to the body’s energy centre.
• Pitta is fire which relates to digestion, metabolism, enzymes, bile and acid.
• Kapha is body fluid which relates to mucous, lubrication, phlegm, moisture, fat, the lymphatic system and the carrying of nutrients. 

Research into the benefits of Ayurveda in Parkinson’s is limited. There have been some small studies but more research is needed to prove if there is any connection between this treatment and improvements in Parkinson’s symptoms.

Ayurvedic treatment in Parkinson’s aims to balance the disturbed dosha and restore healthy balances in the mind, body and soul. Depending on the symptoms this may include:

• diagnosing the cause of symptoms in order to identity the reason for any imbalance and the appropriate solution
• use of mild herbal laxatives to help with colon cleansing if digestion is a problem
• massage using powerful oils, as well as enemas
• use of herbal nerve tonics to relieve rigidity and nourish the nervous system
• use of herbal medications to alleviate depression
• dietary advice to improve the digestive, nervous and emotional systems in the body
• use of yoga or mediation to focus on overcoming symptoms, managing internal energies, and for relaxation and reducing stress or anxiety.

Mucuna pruriens

Modern research, predominantly in India, on Parkinson’s and ayurvedic treatment focuses on a commonly used herb, the mucuna seed, which contains natural levodopa that is easily converted to dopamine in the brain¹. This has the advantage of bringing with it few side-effects compared to the synthetically produced levodopa used in standard Parkinson’s medications.

When in the 1960s dopamine deficiency was linked to Parkinson’s, levodopa was extracted from mucuna seeds until it was artificially manufactured, and until recently there was little research into using mucuna based levodopa. Interest has however grown in recent years and several studies have been carried out. A trial at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London in 2004¹ compared the effects of two types of mucuna based medications with synthetic levodopa treatment and had encouraging results, suggesting that mucuna may have advantages over synthetic levodopa for long-term use. Further follow up trials are required.

Reference:

1. Mucuna Pruriens in Parkinson’s Disease: a Double-blind Clinical and Pharmacological Study – Katzenschalger R, Evans A, Manson A, Patsalos PN, Watt H et al – Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, 2004. 75:2672-7 - view abstract.

There is no ‘norm’ or typical session as this will vary from one practitioner to another. Each individual will react differently to treatment so for some treatment may be short whilst for others longer may be needed.

Diagnosis is usually by three main methods: detailed observation of your appearance, examination of the body by touch (pulse diagnosis), and detailed questioning about your life and health.

After diagnosis your practitioner should discuss with you your treatment plan, including how many sessions you might need, and this plan should be updated as treatment progresses.

Ayurvedic practice is not regulated in some countries. It is therefore helpful to ask your doctor or other healthcare professional for recommendations. Friends, family, other people with Parkinson’s or your national Parkinson’s association may also be able to advise based on personal experience.

Treatment is not generally state-funded so you may have to pay for any treatment you receive. There are many practitioners in the East but fewer in Europe due to the lengthy and complex training required. Accreditation and training varies throughout Europe so it is best to check the experience of anyone you consult and always ask for references. 

A distinction is generally made between an ayurvedic practitioner and an ayurvedic therapist. A practitioner is qualified to diagnose conditions from an ayurvedic perspective as well as prescribe and administer all ayurvedic therapies, whilst a therapist is qualified to give ayurvedic nutrition and lifestyle advice and administer ayurvedic hands-on treatments such as massage, but not to diagnose conditions or prescribe remedies.

We would like to thank Balthasar Schaap, MD (The Netherlands) for his help in reviewing this information.