Evidence supporting the use of: Uncaria (unspecified)
For the health condition: Parkinson's Disease

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Uncaria, commonly referring to species like Uncaria rhynchophylla (Gou Teng), has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), particularly for neurological and convulsive disorders. In the context of Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Uncaria is traditionally used in TCM formulas to "extinguish wind" and relieve tremors, which are symptoms associated with PD. There is some preclinical and early clinical research suggesting that Uncaria extracts, especially those rich in rhynchophylline, may have neuroprotective effects, possibly related to antioxidant properties and modulation of NMDA receptors. Some animal studies suggest benefits in reducing neurotoxicity and improving motor symptoms in PD models. However, robust human clinical trial data are lacking, and systematic reviews consistently rate the quality of evidence as low. Most uses in PD are based on traditional rationale and limited preclinical evidence rather than rigorous scientific validation. Thus, while traditional support exists and some mechanistic plausibility is provided by laboratory studies, current evidence for Uncaria’s use in Parkinson’s Disease in humans is weak and primarily rooted in traditional practice rather than strong scientific validation.

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