Ayurvedic Therapeutic Regimen as an Add-On to Optimized Conventional Management of Parkinson Disease: Protocol for an Exploratory Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating Clinical, Cortical Excitability, Neuroimmune, and Autonomic Function Parameters.

BACKGROUND

Parkinson disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, lacks disease-modifying treatments. Current therapies focus on symptomatic relief, highlighting the need for adjunctive neuroprotective strategies. Ayurveda, a holistic system, shows promise in improving PD clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This assessor-blinded randomized controlled study aims to systematically evaluate the efficacy of an add-on Ayurveda therapeutic regimen compared to conventional treatment as usual (TAU) in improving the clinical outcomes of PD.

METHODS

A total of 80 patients with PD, diagnosed according to UK Parkinson's Disease Society Brain Bank criteria, will be randomized into two groups: TAU and add-on Ayurveda. The intervention group will receive Ayurvedic therapy alongside conventional treatment for 180 days, whereas the control group will continue TAU. Assessments will occur at baseline and at 60-, 120-, and 180-day follow-ups, evaluating motor and nonmotor symptoms. Transcranial magnetic stimulation, heart rate variability, and pulmonary function tests will assess cortical excitability, autonomic function, and pulmonary function, respectively. Immunological parameters, including cytokine levels and telomere length, will be analyzed at baseline and at 180 days to explore disease-modifying effects. Liver and renal function tests will monitor safety.

RESULTS

As of 2025, a total of 259 patients with PD have been screened for eligibility, of whom 58 participants have been successfully enrolled in the trial. Among these, 33 participants have completed the intervention and follow-up assessments, 14 have discontinued participation, and 11 are currently continuing participation in the study. Recruitment and follow-up are ongoing, and the trial is scheduled for completion in September 2026.

CONCLUSIONS

This study aims to address the lack of mechanistic evidence and robust data on Ayurveda in PD. By systematically evaluating clinical efficacy and potential biomechanisms, the findings will provide preliminary evidence for Ayurvedic interventions, potentially paving the way for their integration into comprehensive PD management.