Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Parkinson’s Disease
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Methionine | 5 grams per day |  [2 stars] Preliminary trials have suggested that the amino acid methionine may effectively treat some symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. |
NADH | 5 mg twice per day | [2 stars] NADH—the active form of vitamin B3 in the body—has been shown to reduce symptoms and improve brain function in people with Parkinson’s disease. |
Phenylalanine | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | [2 stars] In one trial, D-phenylalanine (DPA) supplementation improved motor control and tremors in people with Parkinson’s disease. DPA should not be taken with L-dopa as it may interfere with the transport of L-dopa to the brain. |
Vitamin B2 | 30 mg three times a day | [2 stars] In one study, people with Parkinson’s disease who had vitamin B2 (riboflavin) deficiency and supplemented with riboflavin experienced improved motor capacity. |
Vitamin C and Vitamin E | 3,000 mg of vitamin C and 3,200 IU of vitamin E | [2 stars] Supplementing with vitamins C and E may help people with early Parkinson’s disease delay the need for medication. |
Coenzyme Q10 | 1,200 mg a day |  [1 star] In a double-blind trial, coenzyme Q10 given to people with early Parkinson's disease significantly slowed the progression of the disease. |
Cowhage | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] An extract of Mucuna prurient (HP-200) significantly reduced symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease in one trial. |
L-Tyrosine | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] L-tyrosine is the direct precursor to L-dopa and therefore could be an alternative to L-dopa therapy, however, it should not be taken with L-dopa as it may interfere with L-dopa transport to the brain. |
Phosphatidylserine | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Supplementing with phosphatidylserine may improved the mood and mental function in patients with Parkinson’s disease. |
Psyllium (Constipation) | 3 to 5 grams taken at night with a one to two glasses of fluid | [1 star] Preliminary research has shown that psyllium seed husks improve constipation and bowel function in people with Parkinson’s disease and constipation.
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Vitamin B6 | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Vitamin B6 has been reported to improve Parkinson’s symptoms. It can be used in conjunction with L-dopa plus carbidopa (Sinemet) or selegiline (Eldepryl, Atapryl), rather than with L-dopa alone. |
Vitamin D | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Vitamin D deficiency is common in Parkinson’s disease and may increase the risk of hip fracture due to osteoporosis. This risk may be reduced by taking vitamin D. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.