The Spruce / Anastasiia Stiahailo

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinsons disease (PD) is resulting from a decrease in the production ofdopamine.

People with PD have low dopamine levels.

Aromatherapy essential oil diffuser on a bedside table

The Spruce / Anastasiia Stiahailo

Dopamine is a chemical produced in the brain that regulates smooth, controlled movements.

The nerve cells in the brain that make dopamine have died or are damaged.

Experts do not know what exactly causes PD.

The oils pulled can be used as a complementary therapy to manage symptoms of several conditions, including PD.

Lavender

Lavenderis a common essential oil that has been used for its calming scent.

It is commonly found as an added fragrance to soap, lotion, and candles.

However, when they started using lavender aromatherapy oil, their sleep duration increased back to their previous duration.

However, more research specific to people with Parkinson’s disease is needed.

Peppermint

One of the mainstaytreatments for PDis a combination medication called Sinemet (levodopa/carbidopa).

Potential side effects of this medication arenauseaand vomiting.

A 2021 study tested inhaled peppermint as a treatment for nausea.

It was found to be even more effective than a combination of peppermint and traditional nausea medication.

One hypothesis that experts are exploring is that PD can be triggered by brain inflammation.

Using rosemary for its anti-inflammatory properties may have a positive effect on people with PD.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a household spice that has a familiar smell and taste.

Its used in baking, tea, and as an essential oil.

There is a study that shows cinnamon as a potential protective agent against the progression of PD.

Always discuss complementary methods with your healthcare provider before adding them to your care routine.

It currently has no known cure.

There are treatments available to help manage the progression of the disease and its symptoms.

Essential oils are a complementary therapy that may help reduce PD symptoms.

Lavender can aid in sleep, sweet orange can help with anxiety, and peppermint eases nausea.

In studies, rosemary and cinnamon have been shown to potentially slow down the progression of PD.

However, more research needs to be done to determine these two essential oils' effectiveness in managing PD.

Essential oils may ease your sleep troubles, stress, and nausea.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no scientific proof that essential oils treat or cure PD.

Generally, most people will not experience negative side effects when using essential oils.

However, there have been a few cases of serious side effects that you should be aware of.

These include:

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