Question: I am 48 years old, and I began having oromandibular dystonia about five months ago. I am terrified of taking the recommended medicines. Are there any alternative treatments?

Dr. Blaylock's Answer:
A dystonia is a neurological disorder that causes muscles to contract and spasm involuntarily. Oromandibular dystonia is a form of the disorder that affects the mouth, jaw, and tongue.

There is evidence that dystonias can be caused by an imbalance between excitatory neurotransmitters (such as dopamine) and inhibitory neurotransmitters (GABA). A change in diet may help. Most important is to remove all excitatory food additives, such as MSG, hydrolyzed proteins, autolyzed yeast, soy extracts and foods, and caseinate.

Some studies have found that magnesium reduces dystonia. This may require 500 mg twice a day.

Brain inflammation may also play a role in dystonias. Curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, niacinamide, and natural vitamin E can all reduce brain inflammation. DHA oil reduces brain inflammation, especially if combined with higher-doses of vitamin D3. Progesterone and estrogen both reduce brain inflammation and protect brain cells.

Because there are few clinical studies on the use of natural products for this condition, one may need to rely on research studies alone.