Mucuna pruriens and Parkinson's Disease
Physical instability, tremors, and muscle rigidity are symptoms of Parkinson's disease and they're difficult concerns to endure. Although symptoms manifest physically, the disease itself results from an insufficient production of dopamine and the degeneration of brain tissue. With Parkinson's disease on the rise, more researchers have felt an increased need for finding new methods and support options for sufferers.
According to the majority of Parkinson's research, oxidative stress plays a central role in the development of the disease. Antioxidants are helpful for reducing the impact oxidative stress at the hands of free radicals exerts on blood vessels, cells, and brain tissue. Most herbs and plants possess varying amounts of antioxidants, many of which are the focus of nutritional studies geared toward the development of new and innovative nutritional support.
One tropical plant that has caught a lot of attention recently is Mucuna pruriens. Ayurvedic traditions have used this legume for a wide range of ailments and recent research has unveiled its protective effects that stem from high antioxidant activity. In fact, some studies have indicated that it may contain natural levels of L. dopa, a precursor to dopamine. Parkinson's disease is partially defined by the dramatic decrease of dopamine production, an essential neurotransmitter, causing many health experts to take a look at its implementation alongside traditional Parkinson's disease therapies.
The History of Mucuna Pruriens and Parkinson's
While the study of Mucuna pruriens has only recently become more prevalent in scientific circles, its use for aiding Parkinson's disease therapy has been known for centuries. Historical texts have record Parkinson's and Mucuna pruriens as early as 300 BC. Current research is validating ancient claims and studies consistently report L. dopa concentrations of 4-6%. [1] Mucuna pruriens is just one of several therapies popular in India, China, and the Amazon for Parkinson's disease. [2]
Conventional Approach
The most common course of action for Parkinson's disease involves the administration of a synthetic version of levodopa. This is designed to increase the amount of dopamine in the brain, thus combating the effects of the disorder. As with many drugs, including synthetic versions of natural substances, there are a number of side effects that can result from their chronic use. Dizziness upon standing, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and uncontrollable muscle movement [3] are just a few of the identified side effects accredited to the drug.
With a host of research studies confirming the plant's undeniable benefit for Parkinson's disease, health experts are beginning to take notice. Research into M. pruriens and its naturally-occurring levodopa has continued to produce positive results for Parkinson’s patients.
What Does Mucuna Pruriens Offer?
Drug-induced involuntary muscle movement, or dyskinesia, is a common side effect of synthetic levodopa. Considering that muscle control issues are an early symptom of Parkinson's, a protocol that further aggravates this concern is undesirable.
In animal models, L-dopa obtained from Mucuna pruriens produced better results than synthetic levodopa. [4] Compared with synthetic levodopa, Mucuna pruriens produces a unique interaction within the brain that may protect against treatment-induced dyskinesia. [5] While interesting, the results are far too premature and further studies are needed to determine its long-term potential.
One promising, double-blind randomized controlled trial of 8 Parkinson's patients compared synthetic L-dopa with Mucuna pruriens. The patients selected for the study suffered from dyskinesia for a short period following conventional L-dopa. All patients showed a faster dopamine-stimulating response to mucuna seed powder without the adverse side effects often experienced following conventional L-dopa administration. [6] Research like this suggests natural L-dopa may offer advantages.
Cleansing During Parkinson's Disease Therapy
The idea that cleansing helps to rid your body of toxin accumulation isn't new and research validates the effectiveness of a regular cleansing regimen. One study involving 18 Parkinson's disease patients examined the effectiveness of L-dopa supplementation combined with a pre-cleansing therapy. The patients that underwent cleansing and L-dopa reported better results than those who did not. The cleansing patients enjoyed better motor function, less stiffness and cramps, and overall daily function. [7]
One Final Thought
It's important to remember that although the conversation is exciting, Mucuna pruriens is not a cure or treatment for Parkinson's disease. Current research shows a great deal of promise for Parkinson's patients, especially those that are seeking natural complementary approaches. It also seems that regular cleansing offers a boost to the efforts. What do you make of these findings?
References (7)
- Ovallath S, Deepa P. The history of parkinsonism: descriptions in ancient Indian medical literature. Mov Disord. 2013 May;28(5):566-8. doi: 10.1002/mds.25420.
- Manyam BV, Sánchez-Ramos JR. Traditional and complementary therapies in Parkinson's disease. Adv Neurol. 1999;80:565-74.
- Ramya KB, Thaakur S. Herbs containing L- Dopa: An update. Anc Sci Life. 2007 Jul;27(1):50-5.
- Lieu CA, Venkiteswaran K, Gilmour TP, Rao AN, Petticoffer AC, Gilbert EV, Deogaonkar M, Manyam BV, Subramanian T. The Antiparkinsonian and Antidyskinetic Mechanisms of Mucuna pruriens in the MPTP-Treated Nonhuman Primate. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:840247.
- Tharakan B, Dhanasekaran M, Mize-Berge J, Manyam BV. Anti-Parkinson botanical Mucuna pruriens prevents levodopa induced plasmid and genomic DNA damage. Phytother Res. 2007 Dec;21(12):1124-6.
- Katzenschlager R, Evans A, Manson A, Patsalos PN, Ratnaraj N, Watt H, Timmermann L, Van der Giessen R, Lees AJ. Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2004 Dec;75(12):1672-7.
- Nagashayana N, Sankarankutty P, Nampoothiri MR, Mohan PK, Mohanakumar KP. Association of L-DOPA with recovery following Ayurveda medication in Parkinson's disease. J Neurol Sci. 2000 Jun 15;176(2):124-7.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
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