Evidence supporting the use of: Indian snakeroot
For the health condition: Parkinson's Disease

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Indian snakeroot (Rauvolfia serpentina) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. Historically, it has been used as a remedy for various nervous disorders, including insomnia, anxiety, and certain mental illnesses. Its use in the context of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is primarily traditional and not based on strong scientific validation.

The main active compound in Indian snakeroot is reserpine, which depletes stores of certain neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin from nerve endings. While reserpine was once used as an antihypertensive and antipsychotic agent in Western medicine, its pharmacological action actually reduces dopamine levels in the brain. This is the opposite of what is desired in Parkinson’s Disease, where dopamine deficiency is the core problem. In fact, reserpine can induce parkinsonism-like symptoms as a side effect due to this dopamine depletion.

There is no robust scientific evidence or modern clinical studies supporting the use of Indian snakeroot or reserpine for the treatment or support of Parkinson’s Disease. Its historical use is more associated with general nervous conditions rather than Parkinson’s specifically. Therefore, its use for PD is justified only by traditional practices, and the theoretical mechanism of its main active compound would likely be harmful rather than beneficial.

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