Parkinson's Disease

 Parkinson's Disease and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Treatment with Herbs, Acupressure and Qi Gong

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disease of the nervous system that leads to gradual weakening of motor skills, tremors, muscle stiffness, and problems with balance. Although Western medicine focuses primarily on medications and drug therapy, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a different approach that includes herbs, acupressure, and Qi Gong exercises to help manage the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and improve the quality of life of patients.

How does TCM approach the treatment of Parkinson's Disease?

In TCM, Parkinson's disease is most often viewed as the result of imbalances in the body, including deficiencies of Qi (vital energy), Yin (cooling, moistening energy), and weakening of the blood . The contemporary TCM approach to Parkinson's disease focuses on improving energy flow, strengthening the kidneys and liver, nourishing the blood, and calming excessive Yang activity .

TCM offers a wide range of therapies that can support the treatment of Parkinson's disease, improving patients' quality of life and alleviating symptoms.

1. Chinese Herbs in Treating Parkinson's Disease

Chinese herbs are used to strengthen Qi , improve energy flow, nourish the blood, and support the functioning of the nervous system. Herbs used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease include:

Gou Teng (Uncaria rhynchophylla) : This herb is used in TCM to improve nervous system function, relieve tremors, and improve balance.

He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum) : Known for its antioxidant properties, it supports kidney and liver function, improving energy and vitality.

Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) : Helps improve blood circulation and has a protective effect on the nervous system, which is important in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Chai Hu (Bupleurum chinense) : Helps harmonize the energies in the body and reduce muscle stiffness.

Ren Shen (Panax ginseng) : Increases energy, helps strengthen the immune system and improves cognitive abilities.

Simple Herbal Recipe for Parkinson's Disease

Herbal Blend to Improve Nervous Function :

Ingredients:

10g Gou Teng (Uncaria rhynchophylla)

10g He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum)

10g Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza)

5g Chai Hu (Bupleurum chinense)

Preparation :

Place the herbs in a pot and pour 1 liter of water.

Cook for about 30 minutes over low heat until the liquid is reduced by half.

Drink 1 cup daily for 7-10 days.

These herbs help strengthen the nervous system, improve blood circulation, and reduce symptoms such as tremors and muscle stiffness.

2. Acupressure for Parkinson's Disease

Acupressure is a method that can help restore the body's energy balance and alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's. Applying the appropriate acupressure points can improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and support motor function. Here are some points that can help:

LI4 Point (He Gu) : Located between the thumb and index finger. It works to improve energy flow and reduce muscle stiffness.

ST36 Point (Zu San Li) : Located 4 fingers below the kneecap, on the front of the leg. This is one of the most important points for strengthening energy and improving the functioning of the nervous system.

GV20 Point (Bai Hui) : Located at the top of the head, it supports energy balance and has a calming effect.

Press these points for 1-2 minutes several times a day to help improve motor function and improve well-being.

3. Qi Gong for Parkinson's Disease

Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese practice that combines breathing exercises, meditation, and gentle physical movements to improve energy flow and overall health. In the case of Parkinson's disease, Qi Gong can help improve balance, reduce muscle stiffness, and improve motor skills.

Qi Gong Exercise "Gathering Energy" :

Stand with your feet hip-width apart.

Raise both arms up as you inhale deeply through your nose, imagining that you are collecting energy from your surroundings.

Slowly lower your arms down as you exhale calmly through your mouth, imagining that you are releasing tension from your body.

Repeat 10-15 times, focusing on calm breathing and smooth, controlled movements.

This exercise helps harmonize the flow of energy in the body, which supports the treatment of Parkinson's symptoms.

Summary

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a holistic approach to treating Parkinson's disease, combining herbs, acupressure, and Qi Gong. Herbs support the nervous system, improving circulation and energy, acupressure helps reduce muscle stiffness and tremors, and Qi Gong improves balance and motor skills. It is worth remembering that before using any TCM therapy, especially for Parkinson's disease, it is recommended to consult with a doctor or TCM specialist.

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