A significant proportion of Parkinson’s patients use natural health products such as cannabis, turmeric, and coffee to better cope with their symptoms. Scientific research shows that this use is widespread, but also that patients are often insufficiently aware of potential risks and interactions.
More and more Parkinson’s patients are looking for natural supplements, but do not always do so in consultation with their doctor.
Medical disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for general and educational purposes and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a doctor or qualified healthcare provider with questions about health, medication, or supplement use.
What are natural health products?
Natural health products are remedies of plant or natural origin that people use to support their well-being. Examples include herbs, extracts, and supplements such as cannabis, turmeric, and chamomile.
Why are Parkinson's patients looking for natural remedies?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder with both motor and non-motor symptoms. Common complaints include tremors, muscle stiffness, slower movements, and postural problems, as well as anxiety, gloominess, and cognitive changes. 1.
Because there is no curative treatment, some patients seek additional ways to support their quality of life.
Research into the use of supplements for Parkinson's
Researchers from the Université Laval analyzed data from 367 Dutch Parkinson’s patients from the PRIME-NL database. The results were published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease.
Key research findings
- 36% of patients had ever used a natural health product
- 16% used coffee
- 13% used cannabis
- 10% used turmeric
- Other agents mentioned were chamomile and Mucuna pruriens
Only 39% of users knew that natural supplements can affect the action of Parkinson’s medication.
In addition, 61% indicated that they had not discussed supplement use with a doctor, while 71% indicated that they wanted to receive more reliable information2.
Interaction with medication: an important point of attention
A major risk of natural health products is that they can affect the action of prescribed medication. This also applies to agents that are considered “natural” or “mild.”
The researchers emphasize that open communication between patient and doctor is essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of treatment².
Cannabis for Parkinson's: what is known?
A Norwegian national survey from 2022 showed that 11% of Parkinson’s patients had used cannabis to influence symptoms3.
In the United States, where cannabis is more readily available, this percentage is around 25%4.
At the same time, organizations such as Parkinson’s Europe, Parkinson’s UK, and the Michael J. Fox Foundation warn that there is still insufficient scientific evidence for the effectiveness and safety of cannabis in Parkinson’s disease5.
What do experts say about natural products?
Experts point out that over-the-counter supplements often contain varying concentrations of active substances. This makes it difficult to establish a reliable dosage or a predictable effect.
“Just because a product is natural does not automatically mean it is safe or effective.”
Conclusion
Natural health products are used by many Parkinson’s patients as a supplement to regular care. Although some agents may contribute to relaxation or comfort, scientific evidence is often limited.
Consultation with a doctor remains essential, especially due to possible interactions with medication and unclear dosages.
Frequently asked questions about natural health products for Parkinson's
Yes. Research shows that about a third of Parkinson’s patients sometimes use natural health products, such as herbs, supplements, or cannabis, often as a supplement to regular care.
For most natural supplements, there is insufficient scientific evidence that they demonstrably improve Parkinson’s symptoms. Research is ongoing, but results are often limited or not unambiguous.
Some patients report that cannabis affects complaints such as relaxation or sleep. However, there is still insufficient clinical evidence to consider cannabis as a proven treatment for Parkinson’s.
Yes. Some supplements can affect the action of prescribed Parkinson’s medication. This can both enhance and reduce the effect.
Yes. Consultation with a doctor or specialist is important before you start using natural health products, especially if you are using Parkinson’s medication.
Resources
- Parkinson’s Fund – About Parkinson’s and symptoms
- Université Laval / Journal of Parkinson’s Disease – PRIME-NL study on natural product use
- Cannabis use in Parkinson’s disease – Nationwide online survey (Norway, 2022)
- Survey on cannabis use in Parkinson’s patients in the United States
- Parkinson’s Europe, Parkinson’s UK, Michael J. Fox Foundation
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