Modern ‐ day naturopathic medicine and traditional

In Parkinson’s disease, the neuronal cells that produce the neurotransmitter dopamine deteriorate. As a consequence, dopamine levels decline and symptoms appear. Treatment has traditionally involved dopamine’s chemical precursor, L-dopa. Although widely used, this treatment is accompanied by unpleasant toxic effects and causes only symptomatic relief while the disease progresses. The legume Mucuna pruriens (L) DC. (Fabaceae) has been used in Ayurveda as a naturopathic medicine for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (then known as Kampavata). The results from more recent clinical studies suggest that this nutraceutical may be more effective than L-dopa against the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, may possess neuroprotective properties, and may even cure patients suffering from this condition. This indicates a need for further in vitro as well as clinical research with M. pruriens.