Role of Ayurveda in treating Supranuclear palsy

What is Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)?

This is a relatively rare disease of the brain that affects control over walking, movement and balance, speech, mood, vision and swallowing and most importantly thinking. This disease directly affects the clusters of cells (supranuclear) of the brain, and as the name suggests, worsens over time (progressive) causing weakness (palsy). The inability to move and aim the eyes is one of the classic symptoms of this disease.

As its symptoms are similar to that of Parkinson's disease, it is very difficult to diagnose. It was in 1964 that it was described as a distinct disorder, different from Parkinson’s disease. The average of a patient is above 60, but it may occur earlier. Men are more affected than women.

Ayurveda’s role in treating PSP.

To make things absolutely clear, currently, there is no treatment for PSP, all we can do is manage the signs and symptoms. This disease does not respond to current medications.

Here is where Ayurveda has a better, much better role to play that is in the holistic management of the disease.

Ayurveda (Science of Life), has two main theoretical constructs:

The Panchabhoota Theory and the Tridosha Theory. The first says that the body is made of 5 elements of Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether; and the second says the body functions are governed by three biological units of Vatha, Pitha and Kapha, which themselves are part of Panchabhoota. 

Vatha is voluntary and involuntary body movements; Pitha is digestive and metabolic actions and Kapha the energy holding the body together. Any imbalance results in ill health.

For PSP, Ayurveda uses Panchakarma along with balance exercises to address the imbalance. Studies have shown very noticeable improvements in eye movements, ability to swallow and speak, reduced double vision and neck rigidity. Significant improvements to balance and body sway, reduced mental irritability and absence of tremors, have also been noted. 

So, Ayurveda may not cure PSP, but it definitely does bring a lot of improvements to the quality of life of the patients.

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Blog Reviewed By: Dr Kiran B Nair

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