Glutathione is an antioxidant naturally produced by the human body. For years Naturopathic medicine has used glutathione for a number of different conditions to support detoxification and promote healing. But, what makes it so important in neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s Disease? Glutathione has the ability to cross the blood brain barrier and exert positive effects on the central nervous system in patients with Parkinson’s Disease.
More specifically, research has shown that intravenous (IV) glutathione can alter the ratio of reduced glutathione to oxidized glutathione (GSH:GSSG). Oxidized glutathione is formed via a chemical reaction that occurs at the molecular level. In Parkinson’s Disease, this ratio alteration occurs in the substantia nigra – a group of cells pathologically linked to Parkinson’s.
The higher the degree of degeneration of substantia nigra cells; the more advanced Parkinson’s Disease is staged at diagnosis. Studies have shown that more advanced disease is associated with a higher degree of oxidative stress on the substantia nigra group of cells and lower cellular levels of glutathione – the antioxidant!
The benefits of IV glutathione are demonstrated both clinically (through symptomatic improvement) and pathologically at a more cellular level in the substantia nigra. Patient’s notice a slowing of symptom progression and improvements in energy, cognition, and motor skills.
For more information about IV glutathione and other treatments for Parkinson’s Disease, please call the clinic to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced naturopathic doctors.
