Natural Supplements for Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is caused by the deterioration of the motor nerves over time. These cells that get damaged are the ones that are used to generate dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter. Patients are often given drug therapy, which is not really a cure, and comes with its own slew of problematic side effects. Here are five alternative supplements that could possibly reverse the damage that Parkinson's brings about.

1. D-Phenylalanine
This is the precursor to dopamine, which is indicated in motor control and the "shakes". You don't have enough dopamine, then your Parkinson's symptoms are worsened. Address the deficiency (or rather, the problems with its transport to the brain), and symptoms such as rigidity are addressed.

2. L-tyrosine
L-tyrosine is the precursor to L-dopa. L-dopa is a conventional prescription therapy, and in theory, L-tyrosine could serve as the perfect alternative, with virtually no risk. I've taken this before, and this amino acid is great for raising body temperature, reversing sluggish depression, and for even strengthening your skin so that it can develop a tan! These sound like lofty claims, but it was successful in accomplishing all three for me. Though I don't suffer from Parkinson's, this is certainly a possibility as an alternative treatment for the symptoms. One caution: do not take L-tyrosine with L-dopa, as it could affect the way it's carried to the brain.

3. Coenzyme Q10
This supplement is great to slow the deterioration of the mind and body. It serves as protection against all sorts of free radicals which plague us, and it helps us retain Vitamin E. It is used in all bodily functions; it is the means by which the body turns food into adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (for those who have taken biology or physiology), or in short, energy. Since its importance factors in throughout the entire body, coenzyme Q10 is highly recommended for all sorts of conditions, from Angina, to high blood pressure to Alzheimer's disease, to various cancers.

4. 5-HTP
5-HTP is the precursor to serotonin in the brain, and taking it can help with the depression that could accompany Parkinson's. Before you take this, though, make sure you also are increasing dopamine at the same time-otherwise, an imbalance could be caused, and the symptoms of Parkinson's could be further exacerbated.

5. Vitamins C and E
These great antioxidants are needed by all for great health, and are especially needed by those suffering from Parkinson's disease. It's been found that those who consume diets high in vitamin C and E are at a low risk for a variety of diseases, such as heart disease, and Parkinson's is included on the list.

And of course, as is recommended for patients of all conditions, exercises that emphasize balance, increased strength and flexibility should be considered for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.