hi jagannath, hi tony, hi all...

the efficacy of kapikacchu and ashwagandha mixed with anticonvulsant
herbs such as hyocyamus in kampavata (parkinsons) has been demonstrated
in a few clinical studies, but i am not sure this is ayurveda per se,
although demonstrably better than conventional treatment

with all due respect to tony's admirable success, i think 2 issues are
important to mention:

1. in the above studies the patients that receieved maximal benefit
were those that had undergone pancha karma prior to treatment - this
demonstrates that the traditional methodologies of Ayurveda are
important to consider

2. there is significant discussion that the use of L- dopa rich
preparations like kapikacchu have been shown to improve symptoms in
parkinsonism, but also speed up the progression of the disease - thus
using kapikacchu and esp. the high potency standardized extracts (e.g.
15% L-dopa) too early could could be a deceptively dangerous approach -
of course a higher protein diet might prevent this, which might
partially explain why traditional ayurvedic practices involve decocting
these herbs in protein rich milk

also, regarding point #2, adding other herbs like bala to the
decoction, mixed with ghee, jaggery and other anupanas depending on the
doshas, is more reflective of ayurvedic practices - casein-lactose
sensitive individuals would probably benefit from a milk-free lehya of
kapikacchu, ashwagandha, bala, brahmi and other herbs

additional measures in parkinsonism includes prior and concurrent
amapachana treatment (very important to make sure the bowels are
running clear), and if possible, abyanga/shirodhara with medicated oils
such as balashvagandhalakshadi, bhringaraja, kshirabala or narayana
taila

in severe parkinson's poorly managed by drugs i have found very
generous doses of kapikacchu powder taken with a little ginger can make
a significant difference, which does suggest that mechanism of action
for kapikacchu may be a little different

best.... todd caldecott

>> Dear Tony,
>>
>> Congratulations !!! We too feel like jumping up and kissing the
sky!!
>> Jagannath
>>

>> These two wonderful herbs have given her her life back. I hope
that
>> this
>>> information will help other Vaidyas who are treating Parkenson's
>> patients. The results
>>> make me want to jump and kiss the sky!
>>> Tony

Todd Caldecott
todd@...
www.toddcaldecott.com
in Vancouver: (778) 896-8894