I Love Neuro 278: A Naturopathic Take On Treating PD With Dr. Tanya Denne, ND
Have you ever been curious how a naturopath approaches medicine for a person with Parkinson’s? Turns out it’s super comprehensive. Spoiler alert - we couldn’t cover it all, but what you’ll learn from Dr. Tanya Denne, ND will blow your mind! Hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS learn about Dr. Denne’s journey into naturopathic medicine and her groundbreaking research on Mucuna pruriens, a botanical treatment for Parkinson's disease. Driven by a personal connection to neurological conditions through her grandmother's Alzheimer's, Dr. Denne discovered naturopathic medicine as a holistic approach to healthcare that goes beyond traditional Western medical treatments.
Her research focuses on Mucuna pruriens, a subtropical plant with remarkable potential for Parkinson's patients. Unlike traditional medications, Mucuna contains high levels of levodopa and offers multiple beneficial constituents, including amino acids, glutathione, and antioxidants. Dr. Denne emphasizes that the plant isn't a cure, but can potentially slow disease progression when used correctly.
The biggest challenge in using Mucuna is ensuring quality and proper dosage. Dr. Denne warns about widespread supplement adulteration, recommending patients work closely with qualified practitioners to source safe, effective products. She suggests using Mucuna as a complementary treatment to standard Parkinson's medications, particularly Sinemet, to optimize patient outcomes.
One of her most compelling case studies involves a patient whose Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) score dramatically improved from 27 to 8 through an integrative approach combining Mucuna, exercise, and foundational health optimization.
Patients interested in learning more can visit Dr. Denne's website at Dr Denne.com for consultations and further information about integrative approaches to neurological health.