Parkinson’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by symptoms such as static tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), muscle rigidity, and postural instability. In traditional Chinese medicine, this condition falls under the category of “tremor disorders,” and it is believed to be associated with factors like liver and kidney insufficiency, deficiency of qi and blood, and phlegm-stasis blocking the meridians.
Chinese Medicine Causes of Parkinson’s Disease
- Liver and Kidney Insufficiency: Liver governs the tendons, while kidneys govern the bones. Insufficiency in both the liver and kidneys leads to a lack of nourishment to the tendons and bones, resulting in symptoms like limb tremors and lower back and knee weakness. Traditional Chinese medicine considers the liver and kidneys to be interrelated, and their insufficiency often occurs together.
- Deficiency of Qi and Blood: Qi and blood are fundamental substances for the body’s vital functions. When there is a deficiency of qi and blood, organ functions decline, and the limbs receive inadequate nourishment, resulting in the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
- Phlegm-Stasis Blocking the Meridians: Phlegm-stasis, a concept in Chinese medicine, can hinder the smooth circulation of qi and blood. This disruption leads to insufficient nourishment of the tendons and meridians, ultimately causing Parkinson’s disease.
Chinese Medicine Pathological Mechanisms of Parkinson’s Disease
- Internal Stirring of Liver Wind: This refers to symptoms like limb tremors and dizziness caused by factors such as excessive liver yang or liver fire. Internal stirring of liver wind is a common pathological mechanism in Parkinson’s disease.
- Lack of Nourishment to Tendons and Meridians: Tendons and meridians encompass the body’s muscles and blood vessels. When they lack nourishment, muscles atrophy, blood vessels harden, and this leads to symptoms like limb tremors and movement disorders.
- Phlegm-Stasis Blocking the Meridians: Phlegm-stasis blocking the meridians disrupts the smooth flow of qi and blood, depriving the tendons and meridians of nourishment and thus leading to Parkinson’s disease.
Chinese Medicine Treatment Approaches for Parkinson’s Disease
- Tonifying Liver and Kidneys: To address symptoms caused by liver and kidney insufficiency, one can use methods to tonify these organs. Commonly used Chinese herbs include Rehmannia, Eucommia Bark, and Goji Berries.
- Invigorating Qi and Nourishing Blood: Symptoms resulting from qi and blood deficiency can be improved through methods that invigorate qi and nourish blood. Commonly used Chinese herbs include Astragalus, Chinese Angelica (Danggui), and White Peony.
- Resolving Phlegm and Removing Stasis: To address symptoms caused by phlegm-stasis blocking the meridians, methods to resolve phlegm and remove stasis can be employed. Commonly used Chinese herbs include Tangerine Peel (Chenpi), Pinellia Tuber (Banxia), and Chuanxiong Rhizome (Chuanxiong).
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion: Acupuncture stimulates acupuncture points on the body, regulating the circulation of qi and blood and improving Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Commonly used acupoints include Baihui, Fengfu, and Quchi.
- Tui Na Massage: Tui Na massage relaxes the body’s muscles, promotes blood circulation, and alleviates Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Common techniques include pushing, kneading, and pinching.
- Exercise Rehabilitation: Moderate exercise can strengthen muscle strength and flexibility, improving symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Common exercises include Tai Chi, Baduanjin, and walking.
- Psychological Adjustment: Psychological adjustment helps patients relieve anxiety and depression, improving symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Common methods include psychological counseling and relaxation training.
From a Chinese medicine perspective, Parkinson’s disease presents with complex and variable symptoms that require comprehensive treatment. Addressing different causes and pathological mechanisms with appropriate treatments can lead to better therapeutic outcomes. Patients should also maintain good lifestyle habits and a positive attitude while actively cooperating with treatment to better control the progression of the disease.