Parkinson's Disease Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers various patent medicines that are commonly used in the management of Parkinson's disease. These formulations often contain herbs known for their blood-activating and qi-enhancing properties, such as Chuanxiong (Rhizoma Chuanxiong), Honghua (Flos Carthami), Chishao (Radix Paeoniae Rubra), and Danggui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis). Examples of such medicines include Qingnao Fushen Liquid and Naoxintong. These herbal preparations are believed to support neurological health and improve symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease.

How TCM Addresses Parkinson's Disease

According to TCM theory, Parkinson's disease may be linked to blood stasis and insufficient blood flow to critical areas of the brain, particularly the substantia nigra and striatum. Blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs and formulations, such as Qingnao Fushen Liquid, Danshen Dropping Pills, Shenshao Granules, and Ligustrazine injections, are often used to address these underlying issues. These medicines help improve microcirculation in the brain and reduce arterial hardening, thereby enhancing blood supply to vital brain regions.

The Role of Improved Blood Flow

By alleviating arterial stiffness and improving cerebral blood flow, these treatments aim to restore proper nourishment to the substantia nigra. This, in turn, supports the production and release of dopamine—a neurotransmitter that is significantly reduced in Parkinson's patients. Maintaining adequate dopamine levels is crucial for managing motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

Understanding the Root Cause

Parkinson's disease is primarily characterized by the progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. In many cases, this decline is believed to be exacerbated by reduced blood flow due to cerebral arteriosclerosis. When the substantia nigra and striatum do not receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients, dopamine synthesis diminishes, leading to the onset and progression of Parkinsonian symptoms.

Incorporating TCM into a comprehensive treatment plan may offer supportive benefits by targeting vascular health and improving cerebral circulation. While further research is needed to fully understand the efficacy of these treatments, many patients find them to be a valuable complement to conventional therapies.