Thoughts on Parkinson´s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative pathology characterised by the loss of dopaminergic neurons, mainly in the substantia nigra pars compacta, and the resulting depletion of the neurotransmitter dopamine (DA), which leads to motor performance decrement. Although the exact cause of neuron loss in PD is not known, evidence points to oxidative stress and the production of oxygen reactive species.Parkinson’s disease stands at the top of age-related conditions in the U.S. We notice millions of people suffering from this condition, and it is expected that the frequency would triple over the next 50 years. (cf. https://topnaturalremedies.net/natural-treatment/ginkgo-biloba-natural-enemy-parkinsons-disease/)

Parkinson’s as a neurological disease affects a person’s motor skills such as walking, dexterity of the hands, and speech. The classic symptoms of the untreated Parkinson’s patient are rigid or stooped posture, “mask-like” face, tremors in one or both hands, and shuffling gait. Symptoms generally show after the age of 60 but there are cases of Parkinson’s patients as young as 30.

The substantia nigra

The disease is caused by the wasting of the „substantia nigra“ area region of the midbrain, although the exact cause of cell death is uncertain. The motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease result from the death of dopamine-generating cells in the substantia nigra, a region of the midbrain. The substantia nigra is an important player in brain function, in particular, in eye movement, motor planning, reward-seeking, learning, and addiction. The symptoms of nigral degeneration due to Parkinson’s is a poignant example of the substantia nigra’s influence on movement.

Our dopamine factory

Dopaminergic neurons of the midbrain are the main source of dopamine (DA) in the mammalian central nervous system. Their loss is associated with one of the most prominent human neurological disorders, Parkinson’s disease (PD). Dopaminergic neurons are found in a ‘harsh’ region of the brain, the substantia nigra pars compacta, which is DA-rich and contains both redox available neuromelanin and a high iron content. Although their numbers are few, these dopaminergic neurons play an important role in the control of multiple brain functions including voluntary movement and a broad array of behavioral processes such as mood, reward, addiction, and stress.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that our brain produces to nudge us into doing stuff. It’s the main reason why we can focus and achieve great things even if the payout is not immediate or obvious. The brain produces Dopamine for itself. You can increase Dopamine in your system to help you stay focused, productive and motivated. (cf. https://helloendless.com)

Parkinson’s disease begins with a tremor in the hand and progresses slowly. In time, one may feel that one cannot move the limbs as before. Walking ability may be impaired, making it difficult to move the legs. Muscles can become so stiff that they cause a lot of pain. Any muscle in the body may be affected by Parkinson’s disease, including the muscles in the face. If facial muscles get affected, one can develop speech problems and one‘s face impressions will change. One may also have problems with balance and posture. In the most severe cases of Parkinson’s disease one may develop dementia which can cause problems with memory and impair one‘s ability to think normal. Imagine waking up one day, after a sleepless night to find out that your limbs have a mind of their own. Lifting your arm to rach for a glass of water needs some concentration and a simple effort to laugh at a joke will drain you of all energy. For those living with Parkinson’s disease, this is a daily reality they struggle to accept.
(cf. http://www.dailymirror.lk/article/Tell-tale-signs-of-Parkinson-s-Disease-125555.html)

There are a number of standard treatments that alleviate some of the debilitating symptoms of Parkinson’s and slow the progress of the disease but there is, as yet, no cure. The most commonly used pharmaceutical medicine is „Levodopa“, which stimulates the formation of the natural brain chemical Dopamine.
(view: https://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/herbs-for-parkinsons-disease.html)

No effective treatment for PD exists, as therapeutic drugs do not stop the progression of the disease and some produce undesirable side effects. Therefore, it is crucial that researchers develop new neuroprotective agents that aim to reduce or prevent the progression of PD.

The environmental factor becomes “mental”

Parkinson´s disease worldwide (cf: https://www.neuro-depesche.de/nachrichten/die-parkinson-praevalenz-nimmt-weltweit-zu)
Parkinsons disease in Germany and Europe (cf.https://www.dgn.org/images/red_leitlinien/LL_2015/PDFs_Download/Konsultationsfassung_Idiopathisches_Parkinson-Syndrom/S3LL_iPD_Kurzfassung_DGN.pdf)

In the book „The Brain Gate“, Robert Hatherill, PhD explains: “Researchers have struggled for more than a century to figure out what causes Parkinson’s disease. Until about twenty years ago, our understanding of its causes remained murky; there were few clear clues: no single entity – infection, stress, genetics, or age – seemed to account for the tremors and gradual paralysis of Parkinson’s that afflict over 1.2 million in the United States alone. Then, in 1982, a series of bizarre events occurred. Since the disease usually occurs in older people in the sixth decade of life, doctors found it strange that young drug users started turning up at hospitals showing signs of Parkinson’s disease. Scientists found a toxic contaminant present in the synthetic street heroin being used that caused this strange outbreak of Parkinson’s and solved the mystery. ‘Foreign’ chemicals such as pesticides were actually causing Parkinson’s disease. An alarming study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association claimed that environmental chemicals cause the majority of Parkinson’s disease.“ Elsewhere Dr. Hatherill notes: “Studies have shown a correlation between incidences of Parkinson’s disease and industrialization, pesticide exposure, and consumption of water from wells. Heavy metals, such as iron, mercury, manganese, and aluminum – all byproducts of industry – have been shown to increase the risk of Parkinson’s. These studies support efforts to address environmental causes to reduce the incidence of Parkinson’s. The higher incidence of Parkinson’s in rural farming areas and areas that get most of their water supply from wells correlates with the increased use of pesticides in these areas. Other studies showing the agricultural influences on Parkinson’s have been conducted in the United States and Canada. One agricultural area south of Montreal uses pesticides intensely, sells more L-dopa (used to treat Parkinson’s), and has a higher mortality rate from Parkinson’s disease than other metropolitan locations.”

Thoughts on Treatments

Medicinal Herbs

for Parkinson’s disease seem to fall into three main categories of action:

• Aiding the synthesizing of the neurotransmitter dopamine.
• Inhibiting the enzymes that interfere with dopamine production, in particular monoanimine oxidases (MAOs).
• Protecting the brain from further cell death by counteracting free-radicals.

Ferula galbaniflua, Galbanum

Due to the occurrence of essential oils or oleoresins in the ferula species, these plants usually possess strong aromatic scent. Terpenoid compounds were the most abundant constituents of ferula oils, however, in some of ferula species, the essential oils were dominated by volatile sulphur-containing compounds.

Note that a large part of what is published about the use of medicinal herbs for Parkinson’s disease is based on user testimonials and an understanding of the nutritional base of neurophysiology. There is a marked lack of proper clinical study of these treatments with respect to Parkinson’s. Another way that medicinal herbs may treat Parkinson’s is by inhibiting the action of the MAO (Monoanimine Oxidase) enzymes.

These enzymes, if present in excess, will catabolize (destroy) molecules of dopamine. Therefore, drugs that are known as MAO inhibitors will help preserve the quantity of dopamine in the body and thus help restore normal nerve activity.

MAO-A

breaks down serotonin; thus MAO-A inhibitors are used to restore serotonin levels in cases of anxiety and depression. MAO-B inhibitors catalyze dopamine; thus MAO-B inhibitors are used to restore dopamine levels in patients with neuromotor diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Turmeric (Curcuma)

Turmeric has shown promise for Alzheimer’s because of it’s anti-MAO activity and so would be expected to have an effect on Parkinson’s as well. In fact, curcumin has been shown to be an inhibitor of both MAO-A and MAO-B and so may be helpful for both Parkinson’s – due to low dopamine – and depression due to low serotonin. In addition to these properties, the curcumin in turmeric has also been shown to be a strong anti-oxidant by scavenging free radical molecules. Thus, turmeric is an herbal medicine that treats Parkinson’s in two important ways: by acting against the MAO enzymes and by reducing free radicals.

Magnolia bark

A very recent (2013) study by Chinese researchers exposed artificially stressed neurons to polyphenols from Magnolia bark, either from the species native to China, M. officinalis, or the species found in Japan, M. obovata. Theses polyphenols suppressed both the oxidative and inflammatory response of the nerve cells. As the research team points out, their work follows on previous laboratory studies showing the antioxidant potential of magnolia bark extract, such studies prompted by the traditional use of magnolia in Chinese and Japanese medicine.

The hallucinogenic Ayahuasca

(Banisteriopsis caapi) is probably the least practical choice for herbal medicine, although it is being studied for its ability to increase dopamine in the brain by inhibiting the MAO-B enzyme.

Kava

Although the Kava plant (Piper methysticum) has been shown to contain potent MAO-B inhibitors, it is not recommended because of the potential severity of side effects, especially damage to the stomach and liver.

The common spice Nutmeg (myristica fragrans) and Rhodiola rosea

have also been cited by herbalists as a phytomedicine for Parkinson’s. There is a lack of laboratory or clinical studies to either support or refute this.

Vitex (Monkspepper or Chaste Tree)

In „Freedom Through Health“ by Terry Shepherd Friedmann, M.D., he writes: „In Europe the essential oil Vitex is used to treat Parkinsons. According to the French physician Dr. Jean Claude La Praz, he had observed an 89% success rate in reversing the symptoms of this dreaded disease. He recommended inhaling Vitex oil and applying it to the spine and soles of the feet.”
„I used Vitex on my mother with Parkinsons with great results. I diluted it to about 15 drops Vitex to an ounce of fractionated Coconut oil) and massaged it on her spine morning and night. Sometimes the grandkids would give her a foot massage with it. She loves it.“ – Maggie

Passionflower fruit and Maracuja

Many population studies have established a link between dietary intake of the carotenoid antioxidant lycopene and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Unlike the most carotenoids, lycopene occurs in a few places in the diet. Besides tomatoes and tomato products, major sources of lycopene, other lycopene-rich foods include watermelon, pink grapefruit, pink guava, papaya, dried apricots, pureed rosehips. In our study we found that passionflower fruit (skin and pericarp) contains a great amount of lycopene, whereas the content of other carotenoids is very low, and almost inexistent. This edible fruit could be an alternative source of a potential important nutrient for those people who do not eat tomatoes and tomato products. Passionflower (Passiflora caerulea) fruit is indeed one of these lycopene-rich sources. The Brazilians even have a favorite passionflower drink, called maracuja grande, most often used to treat insomnia, Parkinson’s disease, seizures. (cf. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jmf.2005.8.104)

Passionflower is listed by the herbalist Leslie Taylor for its use in treating Parkinson’s. The active ingredient is probably the MAO inhibitor harmine and harmaline, the same compounds found in Syrian rue. It has been used by native Americans as a mild sedative and to treat anxiety and restlessness – which often occur with Parkinson’s. The Mayo Clinic notes that while passionflower is a folk medicine with a long history and therefore considered safe it is too often mixed with other herbs such as hawthorn and valerian, and therefore its effects may be difficult to detect.
(cf. https://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/herbs-for-parkinsons-disease.html)

Ginkgo biloba

Since the reason of Parkinson’s disease development is the degeneration of neuro-transmitting cells, you would need something of an equal power to protect your brain against the degeneration. This is where ginkgo biloba comes in handy because it actually possesses such abilities. Studies show that ginkgo biloba can shield your brain from Parkinson’s triggered by mercury poisoning, balancing the dopamine levels needed to protect you against the disease. It is said that ginkgo biloba has such great neuroprotective abilities simply because it has anti-apoptosis and anti-oxidant properties.
(cf. https://topnaturalremedies.net/natural-treatment/ginkgo-biloba-natural-enemy-parkinsons-disease/)

Brahmi

Also known as Bacopa, this Ayurvedic herb is often used in the United States as water plants in aquariums. Some practitioners like Ray Sahelian, MD, advocate its use as a memory enhancement as it has been used for centuries in India. According to University of Maryland Medical Center studies, Brahmi may improve circulation to the brain and even protect brain cells. Another study by Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine applied Brahmi seed powder to rodent models of Parkinson’s. Results showed promise in conquering the disease and protecting the brain from damage. (cf. https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/5-herbs-and-spices-for-parkinsons-disease/)

Mucuna pruriens

as a Dopamine Supplement commonly known as velvet bean, naturally contains up to 5 percent L-Dopa (levodopa). L-DOPA supplement is the same biochemical that is made in humans from the amino acid L-tyrosine and is then synthesized into dopamine. When taken as a supplement, the L-DOPA from Mucuna can cross the blood-brain barrier to elevate brain dopamine levels. Powdered mucuna seeds have long been used in Indian traditional medicine as support in the treatment of various illnesses, including Parkinson’s. Recently, studies utilizing Mucuna supplements have shown promising results not just for Parkinson’s but for other conditions related to dopamine deficiency, including depression and psychological stress. Mucuna extract has been shown to increase not only dopamine concentrations, but also other neurotransmitters that affect mood, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Look for an extract of Mucuna pruriens standardized to contain 15% L-DOPA. Take 300 mg twice a day.
(cf. https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/depression/dopamine-supplements-for-improving-mood-and-motivation/)

Rhodiola rosea

or “golden root,” is a popular plant in traditional medicine in Eastern Europe and Asia, with a reputation for improving depression, enhancing work performance, eliminating fatigue and treating symptoms resulting from intense physical and psychological stress. Rhodiola exerts its benefits via multiple effects on the central nervous system, including enhancing the stability of dopamine and supporting its reuptake. This leads to notable decreases in depression, anxiety, and fatigue, as well as an increased ability to handle stress. In human studies, rhodiola has been shown to significantly reduce depression, anxiety, and stress-related fatigue compared to placebo. Look for a rhodiola extract derived from Rhodiola rosea root and standardized to contain 3% total rosavins and a minimum 1% sali-drosides. Take 170 mg twice a day. (cf. https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/depression/dopamine-supplements-for-improving-mood-and-motivation/)

Nigella sativa

was found to possess a therapeutic effect against Parkinson’s disease in chlorpromazine induced animal PD models. Further studies with different extracts and their fractions are encouraged to identify the chemical constituents responsible for Anti-Parkinson’s activity. Also clinical studies to prove this effect is also needed for its applicability in humans for treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
(EVALUATION OF ANTI PARKINSON’S ACTIVITY OF NIGELLA SATIVA (KALONJI) SEEDS IN CHLORPROMAZINE INDUCED EXPERIMENTAL ANIMAL MODEL KULDEEP SANDHUA)

A recently studied virtue of black cumin oil is its positive effects on neurological and psychiatric systems. A meta-study of several studies analysing black cumin for several neurological applications includes “… the pharmacological actions and the therapeutic potential pertaining to the central nervous system, particularly effects on psychiatric and neurological dysfunctions, …”

Positive effect in pharmacological categories

• Anti-convulsant effects from epilepsy
• Anti-Parkinson’s effects
• Neuroprotective effects
• Anti-depressant effects
• Anti-anxiety effects
• Effects on improving learning and memory
• Effects on drug tolerance and drug dependence
• Effects on encephalitis, toxoplasmosis and malaria, which both affect the brain

Conclusion

In many animal experiments and a few clinical trials black cumin seed or oil was found to be effective in the control of pain, fever, epilepsy, Parkinsonism, anxiety, depression, toxoplasmosis, malaria and to improve memory, mood and feeling of good health.
(cf. https://healthimpactnews.com/2017/study-black-seed-oil-helps-parkinsons-can-be-used-for-anti-depressant-and-anti-anxiety-treatment/)

Food

In addition, certain foods and medicinal herbs may also help alleviate other symptoms or complications due to Parkinson’s such as anxiety and depression, dementia, chronic muscle wasting, digestive disorders such as stomach upset and constipation. The majority of natural treatments for Parkinson’s are dietary and nutritional rather than purely medicinal. There are a number of important nutrients that can be obtained from foods or nutritional supplements. Those usually cited at the top of the list for their importance in Parkinson’s are vitamins C, E, B6 and B12, selenium, coenzyme Q, amino acid supplements that boost the body’s production of glutathione and all the oils from the allium species: Onion – garlic, and even peppermint oil which contains “mint sulfide” or yarrow? „Yarrow…brings sulfur in to play, fixing other minerals into soluble forms, and correcting weakness of the astral body.“ Rudolf Steiner

An overall healthy diet may help delay or alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson’s: Low in starch, sugar, and dairy but also rich in foods that contain natural antioxidants such as berries and beans. Those who are prone to food intolerances or allergies should take care when adding any new item to their diets. Choosing organic foods is particularly important for those concerned with preventing or treating neurological disease.

Pomegrenade

This little powerhouse can also help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, ward off the flu (perfect for battling the transitional weather as we head into spring) and help combat prostate cancer and diabetes. Furthermore, recent studies in America have also suggested that pomegranates (more specifically the compound in them called punicalagin) may be able to help stem the flow of diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and dementia. In Australia alone there are more than 5.5 sufferers of dementia and the discovery of a potential new treatment is an exciting prospect.

Green tea

In addition to aiding weight loss, fighting cancer, and helping with graceful aging, green tea shows signs of being able to help against Parkinson’s disease.
Research by Dr. Baolu Zhao specifically indicates green tea’s polyphenols protect dopamine neurons. In a similar study at the Seoul National University College of Medicine found that EGCG, the neuro-protective agent in green tea slashed the neuronal death rate by half when administered to mice.
(cf. https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/5-herbs-and-spices-for-parkinsons-disease)

Ways to Increase Dopamine

High-potency, high-quality multivitamin and mineral supplements can be natural mood enhancers. They can help replenish these co-factors, enhancing neurotransmitter function and playing a complementary role in supporting emotional wellness. Certain mood boosting vitamins, especially zinc, vitamin B6, and folate, are necessary for dopamine synthesis and neurotransmission. These nutrients are often depleted in individuals due to medications, inadequate diets, excessive stress, and toxic environmental exposures, compromising the ability to properly synthesize neuro-transmitters like dopamine.
(cf. https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/depression/dopamine-supplements-for-improving-mood-and-motivation/)

In addition to taking dopamine supplements, there are also other ways to naturally increase dopamine. Do you know which foods are natural dopamine boosters and which foods can deplete dopamine? Working towards a goal can also increase dopamine. By repeating small steps to reach a goal, you can rewire the dopamine pathways in your brain, ultimately teaching your brain to give you a dopamine surge every time you take that small step. You can also increase dopamine by developing an active, regular, stress reduction practice.

Supplements that increase Dopamine

• Green tea
• Caffeine
• Rosemary
• St. John’s wort
• Gingko
• Curcumin
• Kava (piper methysticum)
• Ginseng
• Resveratrol
• Oregano (carvacrol)
• Clary sage
• Bacopa (brahmi)
• Mucuna pruriens (Velvet bean)
• Catuaba (Erythroxylum catuaba)
• Fish oil
• Magnesium
• Lactobacillus plantarum
• Sea-weed
• Bananas
• Chocolate
• Almonds
• Avocados
• Eggs
• Watermelon
• Milk
• Yogurt
• Cranberries
• Blueberries
• Grapes
• Estragon
• Ghrelin

Hormones that increase Dopamine

• Oestrogen
• Ghrelin

A vision of Ayurveda

Based on the principles of Ayurveda, Parkinson’s disease develops due to the aggravation of Vata Dosha in the brain’s nerves. This leads to drying of nerves with effects including shaking of hands and fingers, stiffness in muscles and inability to turn at once. The cornerstone of Ayurvedic and yogic healing teaches us to live in harmony with one’s constitution on a physical, psychological and spiritual level. A person who has or develops a sattvic mind does not experience the disease or brings rapid healing respectively. Hence the effectiveness of Ayurveda goes beyond the pharmacological effects of herbs but incorporates behavioral and ultimately the internal and subtle energies of one’s being. (cf. http://everydayayurveda.org/ayurveda-parkinsons-treatment/)

Gut inflammation affects the brain

Most doctors would not agree that the problem is in the stomach. Ayurvedicly speaking, all diseases come from the stomach.” Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.Parkinsons Recovery.The fundamental mechanism that underlies such seemingly disparate issues as autism, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and various other neurodegenerative conditions, is the process of inflammation, this is what current science is strongly supporting. But it now looks as if this process, inflammation, may actually begin in the gut and subsequently affect the brain as a downstream mechanism. In a submission to the Journal of Neuroinflammation, researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles reported on a fascinating experiment. Using a laboratory mouse, they administered a chemical, dextran sodium sulfate (DSS), into the drinking water of some of the animals. They then examined the brains of these animals at various times up to 26 days after the chemical was placed in the water. DSS specifically causes gut inflammation. When inflammation in the gut was brought on by administration of DSS, there was a dramatic reduction in the growth of new brain cells in the animals in which inflammation had been induced. Not only was there a reduction in the growth of new brain cells, but in addition there was a reduction in the differentiation of the brain stem cells into fully functioning neurons. The implications of this study are breathtaking. Not only does it shed important light on the explanation as to why individuals with inflammatory bowel disease are frequently compromised with respect to cognitive function as well as mood, but it further extends our understanding of the pivotal role of gut related issues, in this case inflammation, as they relate to the brain. (cf. https://www.drperlmutter.com/gut-inflammation-affects-brain/#more-3982)

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids protect the brain against Parkinson’s disease, according to a study by Université Laval researchers. The researchers observed that when mice were fed an omega-3 rich diet, they seemed immune to the effect of MPTP, a toxic compound that causes the same damage to the brain as Parkinson’s. “This compound, which has been used for more than 20 years in Parkinson’s research, works faster than the disease itself and is just as effective in targeting and destroying the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain,” points out Calon. By contrast, another group of mice that were fed an ordinary diet developed the characteristic symptoms of the disease when injected with MPTP, including a 31% drop in dopamine-producing neurons and a 50% decrease in dopamine levels. “This demonstrates both the importance of diet on the brain’s fatty acid composition and the brain’s natural inclination for omega-3 fatty acids,” observes Calon. Since concentrations of other types of omega-3’s had remained similar in both groups of mice, researchers suggest that the protective effect against Parkinson’s comes essentially from DHA. „Our results suggest that this DHA deficiency is a risk factor for developing Parkinson’s disease, and that we would benefit from evaluating omega-3’s potential for preventing and treating this disease in humans,” concludes the researcher.
(cf. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/11/071126110453.htm)

Vegan sources of DHA

The omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA for short, is pretty important when it comes to keeping your heart and your brain healthy. DHA also helps promote good eye health. You can find DHA in fish oil supplements and in various wild-caught fish dishes. If you’re vegan, however, you’ll want to look to sources like perilla oil, flaxseed, and algae oil. There are also vegan sources of omega-3 fatty acids, but these sources will require that your body converts them to DHA and the other types of fatty acids it needs in order to serve its biological purposes.

Perilla oil

Perilla oil is most of all used in Korean dishes. Basically, it’s the oil pressed from the roasted seeds of the perilla plant and has an especially nutty taste. Now, certain population studies have shown that a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids can help to prevent heart health concerns. But, the omega-3 fatty acid in perilla oil can actually be converted through the body’s metabolic pathway. Then it becomes DHA, and it can actually help increase the omega-3 levels in your blood cells. In some cases, this can really help prevent coronary issues and even help to decrease blood clotting.
(cf. https://gundrymd.com/dha-benefits/)

Microalgae/Algae oil

It turns out that microalgae is the only source of docosahexaenoic acid acceptable to vegans. Not only can algae oil provide DHA, but because it doesn’t come from fish, it’s a pretty good vegetarian option. Another benefit of microalgae is that there’s no risk of ocean-borne contaminants. (cf. https://gundrymd.com/dha-benefits/)

Flaxseed

Flaxseed oil is a pretty good source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, but it doesn’t necessarily contain DHA. It too would have to be converted. But flaxseed oil has been known to help with inflammation. Flaxseed oil will give you a little boost of omega-3s, but only in the form of alpha-linolenic acid. It’s more of a backup than a substitute for the omega-3s in fish and fish oil because of the conversion issue.

The “Budwig Protocol” – Cancer etc.
Since Dr Budwig mentioned strengthening of the brain, I believe not only multiple sclerosis, but also ALS “Lou Gehrig’s Disease”, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease could also be significantly impacted with her protocol. I also believe that this protocol could have the greatest impact early into the disease, and could very possibly reverse these diseases entirely. Dr. Budwig states: “A Swede has proved that no brain function can take place at all without three fold unsaturated fats. Without any doubt, every function of the brain—and this has been scientifically proved—needs the very easy activation effect of three fold unsaturated fats. The same applies to nerve functions and for regeneration within the muscle after strenuous muscle activity, in the so called oxidative recovery phase during sleep. This process requires the highly unsaturated, particularly electron-rich fatty acids in flax seed oil. So, when I wish to help a very sick patient, I must first give the most optimal oil I have. My opinion is flax seed oil.” (cf. http://www.cancertutor.com/budwig/)

Glutathione

What is glutathione? It’s a very simple molecule that may well be the most important molecule you need to stay healthy and prevent disease. It’s a key for preventing aging, cancer, heart disease, dementia, and other chronic diseases. It’s also essential for treating everything from autism to Alzheimer’s disease to cancer and much more.

Glutathione is a combination of three simple building blocks of protein or amino acids: Cysteine, glycine, glutamine. It is produced naturally in the body. It is called “the master antioxidant” because it can regenerate itself in the liver after each fill-up of free radicals and go back to work. Free radicals are often the byproduct of normal cellular metabolic oxidation and toxic overload. They can lead to autoimmune diseases, several types of cancer, and even heart attacks.

Glutathione is also essential for maintaining healthy cellular mitochondria. It is notable that damaged or malfunctioning cellular mitochondria are part of the cancer process. This occurs when exposure to toxins and unhealthy cellular terrain combine to trigger a cellular defensive response. During this process healthy cells become cancer cells when they revert to a primitive form of respiration that uses glucose (sugar) instead of oxygen for respiration. They then refuse to die and keep multiplying.

The secret of the power of glutathione may be the sulfur (SH) chemical groups it contains.
Sulfur is a sticky, smelly molecule which acts to grab and help eliminate all the bad things in the body. Its stickiness allows it to capture damaging free radicals and toxins like mercury and other heavy metals. (cf. https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/what-is-glutathione/)

Eat This Every Day

(Terry Wahls, MD)

Glutathione (GSH) is he most impotant molecule in your body that you have ever heard of. It´s benefits are increased energy, stronger immune System, greater mental focus and clarity, less muscle and joint discomfort, improved athletic performance. Do these things matter for us? “Glutathione is critical for one simple reason: It recycles antioxidants. You see, dealing with free radicals is like handing off a hot potato. They get passed around from vitamin C to vitamin E to lipoic acid and then finally to glutathione which cools off the free radicals and recycles other antioxidants. After this happens, the body can ‚‘reduce‘ or regenerate another protective glutathione molecule and we are back in business.” (cf. Paul Fassa, Natural health author)

Dr. Mark Hyman calls glutathione the mother of all antioxidants and says that he has found glutathione deficiency to be common in virtually all the seriously ill patients he has treated. (cf. https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/what-is-glutathione/)

Glutathione benefits

Support health and immune function. Glutathione is a detoxifying antioxidant and one oft he most powerfull anticancer agents in the human body. (FB/DAVE.SOMMERS1, SOURCE ARTICLE: TINYURL.COM/BQ3XW2L, DAVE SOMMERS)

According to Jeanette Roberts of the University of Utah’s College of Pharmacy in Salt Lake City, the main benefit of glutathione is the detoxifying agent in the body. Ample glutathione levels in your body are able to convert toxins into benign substances your system can easily eliminate. For example, glutathione is able to convert the following into harmless substances:

• Cancer-producing substances (carcinogens)
• Heavy metals
• Herbicides
• Smoke
• Environmental pollutants

Essential oils

Parkinson’s and Aromatherapy

The patients were divided into three groups: The first group received a regular aromatherapy massage from a therapist along with using essential oils at home in the form of massage and baths. The second group used essential oils at home, but did not receive a massage from a therapist, and the third group received regular massage sessions from a therapist, but no home use of essential oils. The symptoms studies included: Tremors, slurred speech, rigidity, muscle or joint pain, cramp, low energy, weakness in limbs, hypertension, memory loss, insomnia, constipation, headaches, nausea, nightmares, difficulty in swallowing, anxiety and/or depression. The results, at the end of the nine month study, showed improvement in the two groups using aromatherapy, and less improvement in the group receiving massage without essential oils. Certainly worth looking into for anyone who has, or is caring for, someone with Parkinson’s. (cf. https://www.dreamingearth.com/blog/aromatherapy-for-parkinsons-disease/)

Some essential oils for Parkinson

• Helichrysum oil: It has been suggested that the discovered inflammation relieving benefits of helichrysum essential oil may be what makes it one of the best essential oils for Parkinson’s disease. The theory suggests that reducing brain inflammation in persons with the condition may lend to some relief from symptoms.
• Clary sage, marjoram, lavender oil blend: A small study conducted over a period of nine months found that persons with the disease that either used the aforementioned blend of essential oils in aromatherapy at home or received massages with them outside the home experienced more symptom relief than those who did not. This small study holds some big promise in terms of using essential oils for Parkinson’s disease, because the symptom reductions reported included tremor, rigidity, speech problems, insomnia, muscle and joint pain, nausea, headaches, anxiety and depression and much more.
• Frankincense oil: This ancient oil has received a lot of attention lately, because more and more studies are being done in order to determine just what frankincense essential oil is capable of. One of its suggested benefits includes inflammation relief, which is thought to also occur in the brain, indicating why it is believed that frankincense may be one of the best essential oils for Parkinson’s disease.
• Cinnamon oil: There are a great many health benefits associated with cinnamon essential oil, and it has received big attention lately for purported applications in persons with diabetes. However, the neurological benefits of the sweet spice sometimes get overlooked, and some speculate that it may also be one of the best essential oils for Parkinson’s disease because of these supposed effects.
• Vetiver oil: Tremor reduction is the primary use of vetiver essential oil among essential oils for Parkinson’s disease. More study will be needed to better understand just how the powerful plant compounds affect one of the disease’s most abundant symptoms, but it could be a valuable realm of study for disease sufferers. (cf. http://essentialoilsuses.net/best-essential-oils-for-parkinsons-disease-list/)
• Spikenard, vert, haute altitude (nardostachys jatamansi), Népal.
• Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphorum ct cineol), sauvage, Madagascar.
• Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium), sauvage, Nouvelle Zéelande.
• Frankincense, Somalie (Boswellia carterii), sauvage, Somalie.
• Bergamot, zeste (Citrus bergamia), bio, Italie.
• Wild chamomile (ormenis mixta/multicaula), sauvage, Maroc.
• Neroli (Citrus aurantium), conventionnel, Tunisie.

Not to forget: Essential oils – according to alchemy – are representatives of the sulfur to which we return later. The essential oils, the volatile sulfur, are complex mixtures of many substances. Whereas mercury is the same in the whole plant world, the composition of the etheric oils varies strongly from plant to plant. It is precisely this sulfur that gives every plant its special individuality. The sulfur is always that which is truly individual the soul, its essence. This is the reason, why these oils are called essential oils. An entire therapeutic system, aroma therapy, is based exclusively on the application of essential oils and their curative powers. The content of essential oils in plants fluctuates very much with environmental factors.

Indications of Vitex

We can find a lot of literature about the herbal uses of the Chaste tree, but very little documented information about the use of it as an essential oil. Some feel that it enhances the production of progesterone, bringing balance to female hormones. It may ease menstrual issues such as cramps, irritability, headaches and other PMS symptoms. Vitex has been used for polycystic ovarian syndrome, uterine fibroids, infertility and miscarriages due to luteal phase defects. L-dopa helps stimulate production of the neuro-transmitter L-dopamine in the brain, which is a factor in Parkinson’s disease. Vitex contains sesquiterpenes, which cross the blood-brain barrier and it is felt to carry the L-dopa and other therapeutic properties there while the synthetic pharmaceutical products currently available cannot do this, making them less effective. Vitex is felt to relax nerves, spasms, reduce pain, soothe the liver. It may regulate the pitutary gland. Since Vitex is said to act a lot like bio-identical progesterone in the body, it is felt to be effective to balance estrogen dominance in both men and women. Men suffering from BPH (enlarged prostate), prostate cancer or hair loss find it helpful. PMS and Menopausal Issues: „Vitex agnus castus has been shown to be a singularly effective agent to re-equilibrate progesterone and estrogen levels and to have pronounced benefits for PMS and menopausal complaints.“ (B. Meier, D. Berger, E. Hoberg, O. Sticher, adn W. Schaffner, “Pharmacological Activities of Vitex agnus-castus Extracts in Vitro”, Phytomedicine 7, no. 5 (2000): 373-81.) Vitex balances progesterone levels and moderates excess oestrogen by direct action on the pituitary (Lucks 2003 p. 15) Aromatherapy for Health Professionals by Shirley and Leon Price.

Sesquiterpenes in Essential Oils

A class of terpenes that consist of three isoprene units. Sesquiterpenes are found naturally in plants and insects, as semiochemicals, (e.g. defensive agents or pheromones). There are more than 10,000 kinds of sesquiterpenes and are the principle constituents of

• Cedarwood (98%)
• Vetiver (97%)
• Spikenard (93%)

to just name a few.

Sesquiterpene molecules deliver oxygen molecules to cells, like hemoglobin does in the blood. Sesquiterpenes can also erase or deprogram miswritten codes in cellular memory.

Sesquiterpenes are thought to be especially effective in fighting cancer. The root problem with a cancer cell is that it contains misinformation, and sesquiterpenes can delete that garbled information. At the same time the oxygen carried by sesquiterpene molecules creates an environment where cancer cells can’t reproduce. Hence, sesquiterpenes deliver cancer cells a double punch, one that disables their coded misbehavior and a second that stops their growth. They also have the ability to go beyond the blood brain barrier (meaning they can cross the blood brain barrier increasing the oxygen to the brain). The American Medical Association (AMA) has said that if they could find an agent that would pass the blood brain barrier, they would be able to find cures for many different diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Such agents already exist and have been available since Biblical times. The agents, of course, are essential oils, particularly those containing the brain oxygenating molecules of sesquiterpenes. (cf. http://airase.com/glossary/sesquiterpenes/)

Testimonials

“My grandma had Parkinson’s disease, she is about 80 years old it was detected 7 years ago. it was getting more difficult to live for her, because of stiff muscles she can’t even move. L-dopa and carbidopa medicines are given, but won‘t give much relief. She can‘t eat food and the skin is damaging forming ganglia. This is may be the last stage of disease. nothing was really working to help her condition. Finally she started on parkinson’s herbal formula i purchased from Health Herbal Clinic, I read a lot of positive reviews from other patients who used the Parkinson’s herbal treatment. She used the herbal remedy for 7 weeks, its effects on Parkinson’s is amazing, all her symptoms gradually faded away, she feed very more freely by herself now! I recommend this Parkinson’s herbal formula for all Parkinson’s patients.” – Sonia Fisher

“I am from Nevada, USA. I started on NewLife Clinic Parkinsons Disease Herbal formula treatment in September 2016, I read a lot of positive reviews on their success rate treating Parkinsons disease through their PD Herbal formula and I immediately started on the treatment. Just 11 weeks into the Herbal formula treatment I had great improvements with speech and coordination, my hand tremors seized and the stiffed, rigid muscle had succumbed. I am unbelievably back on my feet again, this is a breakthrough for all Parkinsons sufferers.” – Joel Kurtis, Nevada, USA

“My symptoms were all non-motor, insomnia, leg pain that will not go away, and anxiety issues. Had a DAT scan and that was the test that verified PD. Started on Requip, had such bad fatigue that I had to quit that and then started on Sinemet, no changes too. My son purchased PD herbal remedy online from Best Health Herbal Centre. My son said (Best Health Herbal Centre) to him that the herbal remedy will reverse my PD under 6 weeks. So after using the PD herbal remedy for 6 weeks, my PD was totally reversed. No more major fatigue, insomnia is better, leg pain disappeared. I can walk 4 miles now without feeling pain. I am 64, was diagnosed at 63. I thought I will die with brain fog and fatigue, but Best Health Herbal Centre saved my life. – George Dhlele (cf. https://topnaturalremedies.net/natural-treatment/ginkgo-biloba-natural-enemy-parkinsons-disease/)

“My mom has suffered for years with Parkinson’s disease. This past year it has stolen her independence and she can no longer live independently. I’ve always been interested in essential oils and natural healing. My research into oils and the assistance I received from other oil users led me to a recipe that created amazing results for my mom including: overall feeling better, more energy, able to stand up straighter, reducing and eliminating her tremors. The results were immediate, the neuropathy in her legs took a few days (legs feel lighter) and, the other improvement in symptoms took a week or so. The following is how we apply these oils for best results:

• 1. Few drops of each oil applied in the following order: Frankincense, vetiver, roman chamomile, cedarwood (neck: Rub between each vertebrae, wrists, sole of feet). This is usually just once per day, in the morning, unless tremors are obvious.
• 2. Pain away oil blend mixed with carrier oil, we use coconut, for mom’s ankles, legs and
  knees for neuropathy. I apply this in the evening, an hour or so before bed.
• 3. Lavender oil diffusing in the diffuser most of the day.

It’s been a miracle what the oils have done.” – Christine K. WI, United States, 09-13-2016 (cf. http://www.oil-testimonials.com/essential-oils/11037/moms-relief-from-parkinsons-disease-symptoms)

Curing Parkinson’s, MS and Alzheimer’s

“Can Parkinson’s and MS be healed? These and other neurological diseases can be stopped, put into remission, with a raw vegan diet, fasting and detox methods. As long as a person stays on these diets and has gone through and continues to go through fasting and detoxification methods they will remain in remission. If a person goes back to their old ways in the Standard American meat-based diet the disease will probably come back. Obviously these diets are part of the problem. By staying on this diet and keeping the body in remission, the person is cured. This approach is about remission (neuroprotection and neuroplasticity) and about bringing Parkinson’s, MS and Alzheimers into complete remission (neuroregeneration). Parris Kidd, PhD a nutrient expert cited an important fact that neurons in the brain can regenerate. “The mind-body medicine Renaissance coincides with exciting new discoveries about how our brains age and how we may keep our brains young.“

Dr. Malte Hozzel