Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder usually seen in the elderly population. This disease is characterized by tremor, stiffness, slowness of movement and impaired balance and coordination. Usually the symptoms persist and worsen over time. Parkinson’s disease is known as “Kampa Vata” in Ayurveda. The comprehensive treatment which is advised in the treatment of disturbed Vata dosha is recommended in this disease too.

Parkinson's disease is caused by progressive deterioration of the nerve cells that controls finer muscle movements. A combination of genetic and environmental factors is responsible for the onset of PD. A genetic mutation in the Parkin gene causes the accumulation of defective protein that leads to progressive deterioration of the dopamine-producing neurons. Several environmental factors such as heavy metals and pesticides have also been implicated.

PD affects one in 100 people over age 60. While the average age at onset is 60, disease onset starts by age 40 in an estimated five to 10 percent of patients, and people as young as 30 can also be affected.

The Clinical symptoms of PD

The disorder may affect one or both sides of the body. How much function is lost can vary. Symptoms may be mild at first. For instance, the patient may have a mild tremor or a slight feeling that one leg or foot is stiff and dragging.

Parkinson’s disease symptoms include:

• Automatic movements (such as blinking) slow or stop
• Constipation
• Difficulty swallowing
• Drooling
• Impaired balance and walking
• Lack of expression in the face (mask-like appearance)
• Muscle aches and pains
• Movement problems
  • Difficulty starting or continuing movement, such as starting to walk or getting out of a chair
  • Loss of small or fine hand movements; writing may become small and difficult to read; eating becomes difficult
  • Slowed movements
  • Stooped position
• Rigid or stiff muscles, often beginning in the legs
• Shaking, tremors
  • Tremors usually occur in the limbs at rest, or when the arm or leg is held out
  • Tremors go away during movement
  • Over time, tremor can be seen in the head, lips, tongue, and feet
  • May be worse when tired, excited, or stressed
  • Finger-thumb rubbing (pill-rolling tremor) may be present
• Slowed, quieter speech and monotone voice

Other symptoms:

• Anxiety, stress, and tension
• Confusion
• Dementia
• Depression
• Fainting
• Hallucinations
• Memory loss

The similar disease condition based on clinical presentation is Kampavata in Ayurveda classics. Ayurveda the treatment documented based on the state of disease, chronicity, & constitution, age, physical-mental strength, agni [digestive-metabolic status] of patient

The traditional therapies like, Patra-pinda- swedana, Shashthishali-pinda- swedana, Sarvangasvedana, Shiro- Vasti, Shiraodhara,, & among Panchakarma therapeutics like Nasyam, Vasti are advocated & among them are selected depending on state of disease & diseased. Dr Prasher developed herbal product based on the Charaka Samhita in a convenient dosages form for Parkinson's disease, especially to check the deterioration of neurons & to rejuvenate & regenerate the neurons as well.