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Parkinson’s Natural Treatment

Written by Institute for Natural Medicine Staff

Medically Reviewed by Sarah Daglis, ND, MS

Published December 2, 2024
Last Updated December 2, 2024

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological disorder that affects both body and mind. It manifests in motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and rigidity, alongside non-motor symptoms like depression, anxiety, fatigue, constipation, and sleep disturbances. Every year, nearly 90,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with Parkinson’s—a staggering 50 percent increase from prior estimates. By 2030, 1.2 million Americans could be living with this life-altering condition, making it the second most prevalent brain disorder after Alzheimer’s disease.¹

In its early stages, Parkinson’s often reveals itself through tremors and subtle signs, like loss of smell or excessive salivation. As the disease progresses, hallmark features like instability dominate, usually accompanied by painful muscle contractions, speech difficulties, and an increased risk of dementia.²

Causes and diagnosis

Doctor displays x ray of brain on laptop

A combination of genetic predisposition to Parkinson’s disease and environmental exposure to pesticides, solvents, and other toxins may contribute to the loss of dopaminergic neurons (e.g., brain cells) that, in turn, lowers dopamine levels³^,⁴

Because laboratory and imaging tests cannot independently diagnose Parkinson’s, a history and physical examination are typically necessary.² Diagnostic errors are common, so it’s important to rule out other neurological disorders.¹ The Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale helps measure symptom severity, assessing a patient’s cognition, tremors, motor skills, activity levels, and mood.²

As there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, treatment is focused on delaying disease progression and easing symptoms. Conventional options include medications (e.g., dopamine agonists), surgery, and physical and occupational therapy.

Natural strategies for treating Parkinson’s disease

The naturopathic approach to managing Parkinson’s disease emphasizes nutrition and diet in a multilayered treatment plan.

“From a naturopathic perspective, I address what will take some of the burden off their system, such as food sensitivities, neurological autoimmunity, heavy metals, gut health, and chemical and mycotoxin exposures as indicated through functional lab testing,” says Noël Thomas, ND, a functional naturopathic medicine and neurofeedback specialist based in Portland, Oregon. “Without an in-depth, comprehensive approach,” notes Dr. Thomas, “it [may] seem like you are just grasping for straws and not making a substantial difference in disease progression and treatment outcomes.”

Complementary and alternative therapies

Floral china cup of chamomile tea on saucer

In a 2024 survey, 36 percent of Parkinson’s patients reported integrating natural health products like coffee, turmeric, and medical marijuana into their treatment plans. Other frequently used remedies include velvet bean, a natural source of Levodopa, and green tea and chamomile, recognized for their calming and antioxidant properties.³

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

TCM offers various herbal therapies to address motor and non-motor symptoms. Herbs like Glycyrrhiza, Astragalus, Angelica sinensis, Citrus aurantium, and Panax ginseng show potential, though further clinical research is needed.⁵

Tai Chi, a key component of TCM, has been shown to improve sleep, cognition, and quality of life.⁶ A 2023 randomized trial also linked Tai Chi to reduced inflammation and enhanced immunity.⁷

Acupuncture is another effective tool. A 2023 study found it improves sleep quality and overall well-being, with effects lasting up to a month after treatment.⁸ Combined with conventional therapies, acupuncture can enhance both motor and non-motor symptom management.⁹

Fortifying the mind–body connection

Physical activity and mind–body interventions are vital in managing Parkinson’s symptoms. Evidence supports two practices in particular:

Dance and music therapy, which help improve motor skills and emotional well-being¹⁰
The Alexander technique, focused on body awareness and posture, enhances balance, mobility, and alignment.¹¹ Guided by trained professionals, it helps patients improve mobility through mindful movement.

Nutrition and the gut–brain channel

A well-balanced diet that supports the communication network between the gastrointestinal system and brain is critical in managing Parkinson’s disease.¹² The right foods can help reshape the gut microbiome, reducing common symptoms such as inflammation and constipation.¹³ On the flip side, diets high in processed foods and red meat may worsen symptoms.

The Mediterranean diet is widely recommended for Parkinson’s patients due to its numerous health benefits:

Anti-inflammatory properties that reduce chronic inflammation
Rich antioxidants that protect cells from damage
Microbiome support fostering a healthier gut–brain pathway¹²

Essential nutrients, such as vitamins E and C, found in many Mediterranean staples, may even slow disease progression by protecting brain cells from oxidative stress.¹⁴

Building supportive networks

For people with Parkinson’s disease, a strong, supportive network doesn’t just ease the burden—it fosters hope, confidence, and a greater sense of control over the journey ahead. Connections with loved ones, therapists, and specialized groups make navigating physical and emotional challenges easier. Online and local Parkinson’s communities are also valuable sources of educational tools and coping strategies.

“If you feel overwhelmed and afraid, remember it’s natural and makes sense,” says Dr. Thomas. “Share your feelings about what you’re going through with your loved ones, a therapist, or others in a support group. Emotional self-expression is a strong part of the healing journey.”

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Footnotes

1
Willis AW, Roberts E, et al. Parkinson’s Foundation P4 Group. Incidence of Parkinson disease in North America. NPJ Parkinsons Dis. 2022 Dec 15;8(1):170. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41531-022-00410-y
2
Zafar S, Yaddanapudi SS. Parkinson disease. StatPearls. 2023;Aug 7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470193/?report=reader#_NBK470193_pubdet_
3
Diadhiou S, Maas BR, Schootemeijer S, et al. Natural health products for symptomatic relief of Parkinson’s disease: prevalence, interest, and awareness. J Parkinsons Dis. 2024;14(6):125701264. https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-parkinsons-disease/jpd240102
4
What is Parkinson’s disease? American Parkinson Disease Association. Accessed September 2024. https://www.apdaparkinson.org/what-is-parkinsons
5
Lyu S, Zhang C, Mao Z, et al. Real-world Chinese herbal medicine for Parkinson’s disease: a hospital-based retrospective analysis of electronic medical records. Front Aging Neurosci. 2024;16. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2024.1362948
6
Li G, Huang P, Cui S, et al. Effect of long-term Tai Chi training on Parkinson’s disease: a 3.5-year follow-up cohort study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2024;95. https://doi.org/10.1136/jnnp-2022-330967
7
Li G, Huang P, Cui S, et al. Tai Chi improves non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease: a one-year randomized controlled study with the investigation of mechanisms. Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2024;120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.parkreldis.2023.105978
8
Yan M, Fan J, Liu X, et al. Acupuncture and sleep quality among patients with Parkinson disease: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Net Open. 2024;7(6). https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2820371
9
Pereira C, Machado J, Rodrigues J, et al. Effectiveness of acupuncture in Parkinson’s disease symptoms—a systematic review. Healthcare (Basel). 2022;10(11). https://doi.org/10.3390%2Fhealthcare10112334
10
Sihvonen AJ, Särkämö T, Leo V, Tervaniemi M, Altenmüller E, Soinila S. Music-based interventions in neurological rehabilitation. Lancet Neurol. 2017 Aug;16(8):648-660. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(17)30168-0
11
Gross M, Cohen R, Ravichandra R, et al. Poised for Parkinson’s: Alexander technique course improves balance, mobility, and posture for people with PD. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2019;100(12). https://www.archives-pmr.org/article/S0003-9993(19)31219-5/abstract
12
Bisaglia M. Mediterranean diet and Parkinson’s disease. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(1):42. https://doi.org/10.3390%2Fijms24010042
13
Anwar L, Ahmad E. Imtiaz M, et al. The impact of diet on Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review. Cureus. 2024;16(9). https://www.cureus.com/articles/292057-the-impact-of-diet-on-parkinsons-disease-a-systematic-review#!
14
Agarwal P, Wang Y, Buchman AS, et al. Dietary antioxidants associated with slower progression of parkinsonia signs in older adults. Nutr Neurosci. 2022;25(3):550-557. https://doi.org/10.1080/1028415x.2020.1769411

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Causes and diagnosis