Drug induced perkinsonism - #18988
Are there any treatment option in ayurveda in the case of drug induced perkinsonism? My mother is suffering from bipolar mood diorder. She is taking quitipine sr50mg. And clobazem 1mg. She developed perkinsonism. There is movement disability and muscle stiffness
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Hello Shahida, Before coming to the treatment, I need to know when her symptoms started after taking Quetiapine and Clobazam. Are the symptoms constant or do they come and go? Does she have tremors, difficulty walking, or feel drowsy? Any digestive issues like constipation or low appetite?
Ayurveda sees drug-induced Parkinsonism as a Vata imbalance affecting the nerves and muscles. She can take Kapikacchu Churna (1 tsp with warm milk twice daily) for nerve health. Ashwagandha Churna (½ tsp with honey in the morning) can help with strength and relaxation. Brahmi Vati (1 tablet twice daily) supports brain function.
Daily oil massage (Abhyanga) with Mahanarayana Taila or Bala Taila can reduce stiffness. Herbal steam therapy (Nadi Swedana) may improve movement. Her diet should include warm foods, ghee, sesame seeds, and almonds, while avoiding cold and processed foods.
Gentle Yoga, Bhramari, and Anulom Vilom Pranayama can help with coordination. If symptoms continue, Panchakarma detox therapy like Basti (medicated enema), sarvanga dhara, pinda sweda, nasyam etc may be needed. Let me know if you need more details.
Dealing with drug-induced parkinsonism can be tricky, especially when it stems from medications taken for other serious conditions like bipolar disorder. Ayurveda offers some insights, but considering the seriousness here, any approach should be done alongside her primary doctor.
In Ayurveda, parkinsonism might be likened to an imbalance in Vata dosha, which governs movement and the nervous system. When Vata goes out of balance, it can manifest as tremors, rigidity and movement issues. But remember, though, that it’s really important to keep the medication your mom is currently on in mind. So.
1. Diet: Start with diet. Focus on warm, nourishing foods to balance Vata. Cooked vegetables, whole grains like rice and oats, and incorporating healthy fats like ghee can help. Avoid cold, raw food and reduce any caffeine or processed food intake.
2. Herbs: Ashwagandha is a powerhouse herb that can help calm the nervous system and improve muscle strength. Starting with a small dose like 1/2 tsp of ashwagandha powder mixed in warm milk before bed can be beneficial.
3. Oil Massage (Abhyanga): Daily self-massage with warm sesame or Mahanarayan oil can help ease muscle stiffness. Just gently massage the limbs, focusing more on affected areas, to stimulate circulation and relax muscles.
4. Yoga and Pranayama: Gentle yoga and breathing exercises can be helpful for movement and stiffness. Simple poses like Tadasana or basic stretches, combined with deep breathing, can improve flexibility over time.
5. Routine: Because Vata prefers predictability, maintaining a regular routine can be helpful.
But, do keep in mind that these should complement the treatment she’s already receiving. Any changes you consider should be discussed with her healthcare provider, to ensure that everything works together safely.
And, if she shows any new or worsening symptoms, don’t hesitate to see her doctor immediately. They’re crucial partners in managing her overall health!

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