14 Natural Remedies Against Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a rare, degenerative neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, vision, speech, and cognitive functions. PSP is caused by the deterioration of cells in areas of the brain that control these essential functions, particularly in the brainstem and basal ganglia. Symptoms typically begin in middle age and progressively worsen over time, with patients often experiencing difficulty with walking, poor coordination, speech problems, eye movement issues, and cognitive decline.

While there is no known cure for PSP, and traditional medical treatments often focus on managing symptoms, many individuals seek natural remedies to help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. Natural remedies can play a supportive role in reducing inflammation, boosting brain function, and improving mobility.

In this article, we’ll explore 14 natural remedies that can be used alongside conventional treatments to manage PSP symptoms and improve quality of life.

1. Anti-Inflammatory Diet

An anti-inflammatory diet can be highly beneficial for people with PSP. Chronic inflammation in the brain may contribute to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including PSP. An anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes whole foods that are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce inflammation and protect brain cells from oxidative stress.

Key foods to include in an anti-inflammatory diet:

• Fruits and vegetables: Berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables are rich in antioxidants that reduce inflammation.
• Fatty fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have strong anti-inflammatory effects.
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds provide healthy fats that support brain health.
• Olive oil: A source of oleocanthal, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen.

By adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, individuals with PSP can help reduce inflammation in the brain, potentially slowing the progression of symptoms.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain health and may help protect against neurodegeneration. These healthy fats, particularly DHA and EPA, are known for their anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Omega-3s help support synaptic plasticity, enhance communication between neurons, and protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress.

Several studies suggest that omega-3 supplementation may improve cognitive function and support brain health in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases like PSP.

Sources of omega-3 fatty acids:

• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
• Flaxseeds and chia seeds
• Walnuts
• Algal oil (for plant-based omega-3 supplements)

Taking omega-3 supplements or incorporating more omega-3-rich foods into your diet can support brain health and potentially slow the progression of PSP.

3. Turmeric (Curcumin)

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is well-known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin has been studied for its potential role in preventing and slowing neurodegenerative diseases due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce inflammation in the brain.

Curcumin’s ability to inhibit the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain, like tau proteins, which are associated with PSP, makes it a promising natural remedy. It may also help improve brain function by increasing levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the survival of neurons.

How to use turmeric:

• Add turmeric to your meals, such as soups, stews, or curries.
• Drink turmeric tea or golden milk.
• Take curcumin supplements (usually in doses of 500-1,000 mg per day) after consulting with a healthcare provider.

4. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant that is naturally produced by the body and plays a crucial role in energy production within cells. CoQ10 has been shown to protect brain cells from oxidative damage and may help improve mitochondrial function, which is important for individuals with PSP, as neurodegeneration often leads to impaired energy production in brain cells.

Supplementing with CoQ10 may help reduce fatigue, improve energy levels, and protect brain cells from damage.

How to use CoQ10:

• Take CoQ10 supplements (usually in doses of 100-300 mg per day) after consulting with a healthcare provider.
• Incorporate foods that contain CoQ10, such as fatty fish, organ meats, and whole grains.

5. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is an herbal remedy that has long been used to improve cognitive function and support blood flow to the brain. Ginkgo is rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, compounds that have antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. It helps increase circulation, which may improve brain function and reduce symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, and poor concentration—common issues in people with PSP.

Some studies suggest that ginkgo biloba may improve cognitive performance and reduce neurodegenerative symptoms in patients with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. It may provide similar benefits for individuals with PSP.

How to use ginkgo biloba:

• Take ginkgo biloba supplements (usually in doses of 120-240 mg per day) after consulting with a healthcare provider.
• Drink ginkgo tea to support brain health.

6. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for brain health and immune function. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, including PSP. Vitamin D helps reduce inflammation, protect brain cells, and support healthy nerve function. Additionally, it plays a role in maintaining bone health, which is important for individuals with PSP, who are at higher risk of falls and bone fractures due to balance and mobility issues.

Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure, diet, or supplementation may help improve overall health and reduce the severity of PSP symptoms.

Sources of vitamin D:

• Sunlight: Aim for 15-30 minutes of sun exposure per day.
• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
• Fortified foods (milk, orange juice, cereals)
• Vitamin D supplements: Take 1,000-2,000 IU per day or as directed by a healthcare provider.

7. Magnesium

Magnesium is a critical mineral that supports nerve transmission, muscle function, and energy production. Many people with PSP experience muscle stiffness, cramps, and tremors. Magnesium helps relax muscles, reduce cramps, and improve overall muscle function, making it beneficial for people with PSP.

Magnesium also plays a role in brain health by protecting neurons from oxidative damage and improving cognitive function.

Sources of magnesium:

• Leafy greens (spinach, Swiss chard)
• Nuts and seeds (almonds, pumpkin seeds)
• Legumes (black beans, lentils)
• Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice)
• Magnesium supplements: Take 300-500 mg per day, or as recommended by a healthcare provider.

8. Probiotics for Gut Health

Emerging research shows that there is a strong connection between gut health and brain health, known as the gut-brain axis. People with PSP may experience digestive issues, and poor gut health can exacerbate neurological symptoms.

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation. By promoting gut health, probiotics can help improve cognitive function and immune response, potentially benefiting individuals with PSP.

Sources of probiotics:

• Yogurt with live cultures
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut and kimchi
• Miso and tempeh
• Take probiotic supplements (with strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium) to support gut health.

9. Green Tea

Green tea is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which have neuroprotective effects. Green tea helps reduce oxidative stress, protect brain cells from damage, and improve mental clarity.

Studies suggest that the antioxidants in green tea may help slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases by reducing inflammation and preventing the buildup of toxic proteins in the brain. Regular consumption of green tea may help support cognitive function and reduce brain inflammation in individuals with PSP.

How to use green tea:

• Drink 2-3 cups of green tea per day to benefit from its neuroprotective effects.
• Use matcha, a powdered form of green tea, in smoothies or lattes for a concentrated dose of antioxidants.

10. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, reduce pain, and promote healing. Some individuals with neurodegenerative conditions like PSP use acupuncture to help manage symptoms such as muscle stiffness, tremors, and pain.

Acupuncture may help improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and enhance blood flow, making it a supportive therapy for individuals with PSP. It can also help alleviate secondary symptoms like anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

How to use acupuncture:

• Seek treatment from a licensed acupuncturist with experience in treating neurological conditions.
• Combine acupuncture with other natural remedies and traditional medical treatments for the best results.

11. Ginger

Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory herb that has been used for centuries to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and promote overall health. Ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which help reduce inflammation and improve circulation.

Ginger may be helpful for managing digestive issues and nausea—common symptoms in people with PSP. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce brain inflammation and support cognitive function.

How to use ginger:

• Drink ginger tea 1-2 times per day to reduce inflammation and improve digestion.
• Take ginger supplements (usually 500-1,000 mg per day) after consulting with a healthcare provider.
• Add fresh or powdered ginger to meals, smoothies, or juices.

12. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily absorbed by the body and used as a source of energy for brain cells. Some research suggests that coconut oil may help improve cognitive function in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases by providing an alternative energy source for the brain.

Additionally, coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the brain and support overall brain health.

How to use coconut oil:

• Use coconut oil in cooking or add it to smoothies and coffee.
• Take MCT oil supplements (a concentrated form of coconut oil) after consulting with a healthcare provider.

13. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress, support brain health, and improve energy levels. It has been studied for its potential role in reducing anxiety, depression, and inflammation, making it a useful remedy for people with PSP.

Ashwagandha has also been shown to protect brain cells from oxidative stress and improve cognitive function, which may help reduce the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

How to use ashwagandha:

• Take ashwagandha supplements (usually 300-500 mg per day) after consulting with a healthcare provider.
• Drink ashwagandha tea to promote relaxation and brain health.

14. Exercise and Physical Therapy

While not a dietary remedy, exercise and physical therapy are crucial for managing the mobility and balance issues associated with PSP. Regular exercise helps maintain muscle strength, improve balance, and reduce the risk of falls.

Physical therapy can provide exercises tailored to the specific needs of individuals with PSP, focusing on improving range of motion, mobility, and coordination. Combining physical therapy with regular movement can significantly improve quality of life and help manage symptoms.

How to incorporate exercise:

• Engage in gentle exercises such as walking, swimming, or yoga to maintain strength and flexibility.
• Work with a physical therapist who specializes in neurological disorders to create a personalized exercise plan.

Conclusion

While Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) remains a challenging and progressive neurological disorder, incorporating these 14 natural remedies into a comprehensive treatment plan can provide symptom relief, improve brain function, and enhance overall well-being. From following an anti-inflammatory diet and taking omega-3 supplements to using herbal remedies like turmeric, gingko biloba, and ashwagandha, natural approaches can play a supportive role in managing PSP.

It’s essential to remember that natural remedies should complement, not replace, traditional medical treatments. Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial when using supplements or alternative therapies, especially in the context of a complex neurodegenerative condition like PSP. By adopting a holistic approach that includes both medical and natural treatments, individuals with PSP can potentially slow symptom progression and maintain a better quality of life.