Is There Any Ayurvedic Treatment for Leukodystrophy
Leukodystrophy is not a single disease but it is a group of rare, metabolic, genetic and progressive diseases. It affects the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. In each type of leukodystrophy, there is an abnormal genetic mutation which causes abnormal destruction or development of myelin sheath (protective covering of nerves) or white matter of the brain. If there is any abnormality in the structure or function of myelin sheath then nerves also can’t function normally. Messages between the brain and rest body parts are not transmitted properly resulting in signs and symptoms. Different leukodystrophies affects different parts of the body which result in various neurological ailments. Presently there are nearly 30 types of leukodystrophies and many more remains unclassified.
What are the Different Types of Leukodystrophies?
Some of the commonly known leukodystrophies are:
- Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome
- Alexander disease
- Adrenoleukodystrophy
- Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis
- Krabbe disease
- Metachromatic leukodystrophy
- Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease
- Niemann-Pick disease
- Vanishing white matter/Childhood ataxia
- Canavan disease
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Leukodystrophies?
Signs and symptoms of this disease varies according to the area affected. Some of the common ones are:
- Loss of skills previously achieved (Developmental regression)
- Seizures
- Cognitive decline
- Abnormal muscle and body tone
- Abnormal movements
- Trouble with speech
- Difficulty or loss of ability to walk
- Difficulty with eating
- Deterioration in physical and mental development
- Decline in hearing and vision.
- Bladder ailments
These signs and symptoms may show up as early as the birth of a child or late as adulthood. The common problem which arises in leukodystrophies is a gradual decline in child’s health related to their vision, speech, hearing, behavior, or ability to eat.
What are the Causes of Leukodystrophy?
The most common cause of it is heredity which means the abnormal gene leading to the development of leukodystrohpy which is passed in the families through genes. Other reason might be an abnormal mutation of the gene.
How is Leukodystrophy Diagnosed?
It can be difficult to diagnose this disease. Some of the common tests used to diagnose it are:
- Blood and urine analysis
- CT scans
- MRI scans
- Genetic testing
- Psychological and cognitive tests
How Can Be Leukodystrophy Treated?
According to modern science there is no cure for this disease yet. Treatment aims at symptomatic relief through certain medications and some specific occupational, physical and speech therapy. In severe cases bone marrow transplant can be required to stop the progress of the disease. Research is going on to know if replacement of some specific enzymes which can help in the treatment of leukodystrophy.
What is Ayurvedic Understanding of Leukodystrophy?
According to Ayurveda, the origin of complex diseases or disorders affecting the nervous system is from an imbalance of the Vata dosha. The electron-transport mechanism is mediated by oxygen (Vata). Hence any imbalance or disruption in the oxygen, i.e. Vata, results in the disturbed electron-transport mechanism.
Herbal Remedies By Planet Ayurveda for Leukodystrophy
Planet Ayurveda comes up with the complete Ayurvedic remedies prepared from best quality herbs under strict principles of Ayurveda. All the remedies are purely vegetarian and are not tested on animals. No chemicals, dyes, binders, colors, yeast, filters, additives or preservatives are added in these remedies. No, any side effects are reported if taken as prescribed by a physician. Even the longtime consumption of these herbal remedies do not cause any side effects. There are five herbal remedies used effectively for this condition:
1. Ashwagandha Capsules
Standardized extract of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is the single herb used in these capsules. These capsules help in treating stress and debilitating conditions. Palpitations, diabetic neuropathy, chronic fatigue syndrome and many other ailments. Ashwagandha capsules if taken consistently as prescribed by a physician, enhance mental as well as physical strength, relax the muscle, and maintain proper functioning of the nerves.
Dosage – Take 2 capsules, two times a day after 30 mins of the meals with plain water.
2. Brahmi Capsules
Maintenance of the healthy functioning of the brain is specific and most important action of these capsules. Brahmi capsules are prepared from standardized extracts of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). These capsules help in reducing anxiety, stress and improves memory and intelligence. Antioxidants present in it helps to clear toxins from the body and strengthens the immune system. Other than Leukodystrophy it also provides relief from gout, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Brahmi capsules regulate blood sugar level in diabetic patients.
Dosage – Take 2 capsules, two times a day after 30 mins of the meals with plain water.
3. Medhya Churna
This amazing herbal formulation is enriched with medicinal properties attain from its constituent herbs, like Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricallus), Vacha (Acorus calamus). Marich (Piper nigrum), Pippali (Piper longum), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) etc. Medhya churna helps in maintaining healthy function of the brain which ultimately results in proper functioning of the body. Stress and anxiety are relieved by proper consumption of this churna. It also treats forgetfulness and weak memory.
Dosage – Take 1 teaspoonful, two times a day after 30 mins of the meals with plain water.
4. Arogyavardhini Vati
This is an ancient herbal formulation which helps to remove toxins and impurities from the liver and assures its proper functioning. Terminalia
Dosage – Take 2 tablets, two times daily after 30 mins of the meals with plain water.
5. Gotukola Capsules
These are the single herb capsules prepared from standardized extracts of Centella asiatica (Gotukola). Gotukola capsules treat nervous exhaustion and improves the lack of concentration. It prevents acidity due to anxiety and stress and relaxes the mind by relieving stress. The vitality of the body is enhanced and the memory is boosted by the regular consumption of these herbal capsules.
Dosage – Take 1-2 capsules, two times a day after 30 mins of the meals with plain water
