How to Treat Friedreich’s Ataxia Naturally

Abstract

Friedreich’s ataxia is an autosomal recessive inherited disease that causes progressive damage to the nerve cells. The main symptom of FRDA is gait ataxia. The Ayurvedic approach to this condition is aimed at controlling nerve cell damage and preventing long term complications.

Introduction 

Friedreich’s ataxia is a genetic condition which affects the nervous system. It causes difficulty in movement.Ataxia means it is the condition in which there is impaired muscle coordination is present and worse over time. It is not a common disease , it is a rare neurological condition which is progressive in nature. Friedreich’s Ataxia is also called as Spine Cerebellar Degeneration in which some parts of the brain and spinal cord are damaged and also affect the cardiovascular system of the body. It is a hereditary degenerative disease related to the nervous system and cardiovascular system. Friedreich’s ataxia is a genetic disorder that is received or inherited from both the parents due to which it is also called as Autosomal Recessive Transmission.

In this disorder, the nerve fibers present in the spinal cord of the nervous system and the nerves present in the peripheral area start degenerating and also become  thinner and produce various neurological symptoms.Peripheral nerves are the nerves that carry signals from the brain to the muscles and then back to the brain again. It mainly affects functioning of the cerebellum ( A part of the brain responsible for motor actions).Ataxia is  present in different manners. There are some common type of ataxia:

1. Cerebellar Ataxia
2. Sensory Ataxia
3. Vestibular Ataxia

1. Cerebellar Ataxia

Cerebellar ataxia occurs due to dysfunctioning of cerebellum ( Part of the brain which is responsible for sensory perception and motor control). It can cause following neurological symptoms –

• Shaking or Jerking of the body during movement.
• Muscle tone decreased
• Inability to perform rapid movements
• Lack of co- ordination between limbs
• Change in posture

2. Sensory Ataxia

This type of ataxia develops due to loss of proprioception( Awareness of the position and movement of the body). It can result following symptoms –

• Instability of posture of the body.
• Unsteady gait

3. Vestibular Ataxia

In this type of ataxia, the vestibular system is affected mostly which is important for hearing. It occurs due to the nerve damage in the ear. It can lead to :

• Nausea and vomiting
• Vertigo

Causes Of Friedreich Ataxia

The main gene which is responsible for FRDA is FXN. In People with FRDA, both copies of this gene are abnormal. Due to their abnormality they are unable to produce adequate amounts of frataxin. These adequate amounts of fraztaxins leads to nerve cell degeneration.Each and every genes consists a sequence of coding that is made up of four chemical units that are:

• Adenine(A)
• Cytosine(C)
• Guanine(G)
• Thymine(T)

These chemical units are called Nucleotides FXN gene is the region where three nucleotides GAA start repeating several times. It repeated from five to thirty three times. The length of the repeated nucleotides is related with the age of onset, according to the pace of progression of Friedreich’s ataxia symptoms, and the degree of severity. It is received in an autosomal recessive manner in which copies of FXN are taken from both parents. If a person has a copy from a single parent, there are no symptoms. But in case both parents are carriers, then the risk of FRDA increase in the child is about 25%.

Risk Factors 

People with a family history of FRDA are at a great risk to develop FRDA.

Ayurvedic Aspect of FRDA

According to the Ayurvedic approach, this disorder occurs due to the BEEJ Doshas( genetic disorders) which are inherited from parents. According to Ayurveda vata dosha is aggravated which leads to FRDA. It is mostly present in the young age of 2 to early age of 50s

Symptoms Of FRDA

Friedreich’s ataxia can be diagnosed between age 2 to early 50s. But most commonly it is diagnosed between ages 10 to 15. The most common symptom is  difficulty during walking ( Gait ataxia ).

Other symptoms include:

• Loss of hearing
• Weakening of muscles
• Poor coordination
• Vision changes
• Slurred speech
• Involuntary eye movements
• Club foot
• Difficulty sensing vibrations in legs and feet area.
• Difficulty swallowing
• Fatigue
• Altered spinal curvature
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath

Most people with FRDA are  also accompanied by  heart diseases . It can also lead  to diabetes mellitus.

Diagnosis 

FRDA diagnosis includes clinical examination which include complete physical examination and medical history.

Other tests which are useful in diagnosis of FRDA includes:

• EMG ( Electromyogram)
• Nerve conduction studies
• ECH ( Electrocardiogram)
• ECG (Echocardiogram)
• MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)
• CT scan ( Computed tomography)
• Genetic testing

Treatment Of Friedreich Ataxia Naturally

As FRDA is a genetic disorder, it can be managed by rejuvenating herbs and by changing dietary habits and lifestyle. Following herbs can be used to manage FRDA-

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – Ashwagandha strengthens our nervous system. It has rejuvenation properties that help in supporting memory, combatting stress and boosting the immune system.
2. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)- Brahmi pacifies all three doshas in the body. Brahmi acts as an adaptogen that helps to strengthen the nervous system and it improves concentration power.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Friedreich’s Ataxia by Planet Ayurveda

Ayurvedic treatment for FRDA compromises herbal remedies to manage the symptoms of FRDA. All the herbs are prepared from pure herbs and natural ingredients. All herbal formulations are manufactured under the guidance of highly experienced MD Ayurveda doctors.

1. Ashwagandha Capsules

These capsules are made of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). Ashwagandha is a potent herb to treat nervous system disorders. These capsules are very effective to manage neurodegenerative disorders. These capsules help in strengthening the nervous system and also help in regulating nervous system functions which are hampered in FRDA.

Dose- 1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

2. Brahmi Capsules

Brahmi capsules are prepared from pure extracts of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). It is an amazing herb to treat neurodegenerative disorders. It has antioxidant and rejuvenating properties. Thus it helps to prevent neuron degeneration.

Dose- 1-2 capsules twice a day after meal with plain water

3. Medhya Churna

This churba is prepared by extracts of various herbs like vacha ( Acorus calamus), Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera), Shwet jeerak (Cuminum cyminum), Krishna jeeraka (Carum carvi), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), Marich (Piper nigrum) and Pippali (Piper longum) etc. This herbal combination works to enhance nervous system functions. This churana acts as a nervous tonic and rejuvenates the nervous system.

Dose:  1/4 teaspoon once daily with 1 spoon of Cow Ghee (Clarified Butter).

Conclusion 

As FRDA is a genetic disorder but it can be managed by regular use of herbal formulations. Herbal formulations are free from chemicals, preservatives and they help in combating symptoms of FRDA.