Symptoms & Treatments Of Epilepsy According To Ayurveda

Epilepsy is a neurological condition which affects approximately 1-2% of the world’s population. In India, more than 10 million people suffer from this disease. Epilepsy is characterized by brief episodes of seizures and excessive EEG discharge which is associated with loss of consciousness with body movements (convulsions).

In spite of many synthetic drugs used in the treatment of epilepsy, there is still a need for an ideal anti-convulsant medicine with properties such as good bio-availability, no side-effects, rapid onset of action and cost effectiveness as well.

There are many herbs and herbal formulations mentioned in Ayurveda that have been found to be very effective and offer a great hope for the satisfactory treatment of epilepsy.

Epilepsy according to Ayurveda:

In Ayurvedic texts, Akshepa is classified under Vatananatmaja Vyadhi. It has been found as a symptom in different diseases such as Apsmara, Apatantraka, Apatanaka but it is mainly observed in Apsmara.

The Ayurvedic treatise has described the causes, symptoms and treatment of epilepsy in detail.

Aggravated doshas get accumulated in the brain and produce the symptoms based upon the doshic predominance which results in illusion of the mind and visual hallucination and seizures.

What are the causative factors of Epilepsy?

• Long term grief or anger
• Sub-conscious fear
• Sub-conscious hatredness
• Debilitated mind
• Consumption of unwholesome food and habits over a longer period

What are the symptoms of Epilepsy?

The premonitory symptoms include:

• Contracted eyebrows
• Auditory hallucination
• Salivation and nasal discharge
• Gurgling in the abdomen
• Fainting
• Giddiness
• Dreams of dancing, stabbing, falling etc.

Important Symptoms of Epilepsy are:

• Convulsions with teeth biting
• Dribbling of frothy saliva
• Expiratory dyspnea
• Involuntary speech or murmuring
• Constriction of the fingers
• Red or black discolouration of the body
• Unstable movement of the limbs

What is the Ayurvedic treatment of Epilepsy?

People often take medicines for few weeks to few months and suddenly withdraw on their own but it is a condition which needs long term medication. This leads to sudden manifestation of attacks and hence the patient has to restart the medication.

It is an illness which requires the constant supervision by the physicians. It is also mandatory to take medicines as advised by the physicians

Yamuna Pharmacy provides 100% natural formulations for the successful management of epilepsy. These Ayurvedic formulations work on the root cause which is the imbalanced doshas.

The herbal formulations by Yamuna Pharmacy are helpful in improving the co-ordination of left versus right brain and balance Dhi, Dhriti and Smriti as well.

Herbal Formulations by Yamuna Pharmacy for the treatment of Epilepsy are:

1. Capsule Sery
2. Sery Oil
3. Capsule Gulvelex

1. Capsule Sery: Sery Capsules by Yamuna Pharmacy is a unique herbal formulation that is mainly useful in the treatment of nervous disorders such as epilepsy.

• The ingredients of Sery Capsules are: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamanasi (Nardostachys jatamansi) and Tagar (Valeriana wallichii).
• In Ayurveda, ashwagandha is considered useful in neurological conditions, brahmi provides nourishment to the brain and improves intelligence and memory, jatamanasi is known for improving brain functions and intelligence and tagar is useful in psychiatric disorders and epilepsy.
• These ingredients are considered as brain tonic and work in a synergistic manner for epilepsy and insanity.
• These work by increasing one’s energy, vitality and strength and provides physical nourishment as well.

Dose: Take 1-2 capsules twice a day after meals or as directed by the physician.

2. Sery Oil: Yamuna Pharmacy’s Sery Oil is a proprietary Ayurvedic preparation which is useful in the treatment of epilepsy. It is meant for external application only. The ingredients of Sery Oil are: Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Tagar (Valeriana wallichii), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Til Tel (Sesamum indicum) and Ksheerbala Tel (Classical Ayurvedic Medicine).

How to use: Apply 2-5 ml on the forehead and scalp and massage till absorption.

3. Capsule Gulvelex: Capsule Gulvelex by Yamuna Pharmacy is prepared by using the extract of Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia). Guduchi or Giloy normalizes the physiological activity of the muscles and nerves and therefore useful in the treatment of epilepsy.

Dosage: Take 1-2 capsules twice or thrice a day after meals or as directed by your physician.

Diet:

• Include green gram soup, drum stick, cow milk and ghee, amalki (gooseberry), grapes, figs in the diet.
• Avoid taking heavy food, alcohol, non-vegetarian food, suppression of thirst and appetite, excessive physical and mental work, unethical activities, insult of teachers and elders.

These herbal formulations by Yamuna Pharmacy along with changes in diet are quite beneficial in the treatment of epilepsy. These medications possess anti-oxidant property. Anti-oxidant potential of these herbs is helpful in the prevention of oxidative damage. These also play an important role in the brain’s cellular defense against oxidative damage and is able to lower the risk of some neurological disorders.

Epilepsy – Symptoms and Treatments According to Ayurveda

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent seizures, which are sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain. The condition is often characterized by loss of consciousness, muscle spasms, and convulsions. It may be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, brain injury, infections, or imbalances in the body.

In Ayurveda, epilepsy is viewed as an imbalance in the Vata dosha, specifically a disruption of the Prana Vata, which governs the nervous system and mental functions. When Vata becomes aggravated, it leads to disturbances in the nervous system, causing involuntary movements and loss of control, which manifest as seizures.

Symptoms of Epilepsy

• Convulsions (muscle spasms)

• Loss of consciousness

• Staring spells (a blank, vacant stare)

• Uncontrollable jerking movements, often in the arms and legs

• Aura (a strange sensation or warning before the seizure, such as dizziness, unusual smells, or sounds)

• Confusion or memory loss following a seizure

• Biting the tongue or cheek during a seizure

• Foaming at the mouth

• Involuntary urination or defecation during a seizure

Ayurvedic Understanding of Epilepsy

According to Ayurveda, epilepsy is considered a Vata disorder, as it affects the movement and communication between the brain and the body. The primary cause of this imbalance is aggravation of Vata dosha, which can be influenced by various factors such as stress, irregular sleep patterns, poor diet, or even genetic predisposition.

• Vata imbalance (especially Prana Vata) can lead to neurological disturbances.

• Pitta imbalance (excessive heat) and Kapha imbalance (excessive mucus) may also contribute, but the primary cause remains Vata.

Ayurvedic treatments for epilepsy focus on balancing the Vata dosha, calming the mind, detoxifying the body, and promoting overall nervous system health.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Epilepsy

1. Dietary Recommendations

   • Vata-balancing foods: In Ayurveda, foods that pacify Vata (cooling, grounding, and hydrating) are beneficial for people with epilepsy.

   • Warm, moist foods like soups, stews, and porridge are ideal.

   • Avoid dry and cold foods that aggravate Vata, such as crackers, chips, and cold drinks.

   • Sweet fruits (like bananas, apples, and pears) and mild dairy products (like ghee, milk, and yogurt) are recommended.

   • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods that can further disturb the nervous system.

2. Herbal Remedies for Epilepsy Ayurvedic herbs are used to calm the nervous system, balance Vata, and treat seizures.

   • Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):

     • Benefits: Brahmi is one of the most revered herbs in Ayurveda for its effects on the brain and nervous system. It improves mental clarity, memory, and has a calming effect on the mind.

     • How to Use: Brahmi can be taken as a powder (1-2 tsp) with warm milk or water. Brahmi capsules are also available.

   • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

     • Benefits: Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that reduces stress, calms the nervous system, and strengthens the body’s resilience to stress. It is particularly helpful in reducing the symptoms of nervous disorders like epilepsy.

     • How to Use: Take Ashwagandha powder (1 teaspoon) mixed with warm milk before bed for calming effects and better sleep.

   • Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi):

     • Benefits: Jatamansi is an herb with anticonvulsant properties. It is highly effective in controlling seizures, reducing anxiety, and calming the nervous system.

     • How to Use: Take Jatamansi powder (1/2 teaspoon) with warm water or Jatamansi oil can be used for massage on the forehead to help with calmness.

   • Vacha (Acorus calamus):

     • Benefits: Vacha has a direct effect on the nervous system and is used to treat neurological disorders, including epilepsy. It is known for its ability to clear mental fog, enhance cognitive functions, and reduce seizures.

     • How to Use: Vacha powder (1/2 teaspoon) can be taken with warm water, but it should only be used under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.

   • Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis):

     • Benefits: Shankhpushpi is an herb known for its neuroprotective and calming effects. It improves brain function, strengthens the nervous system, and helps manage anxiety and stress, which may trigger seizures.

     • How to Use: Take Shankhpushpi syrup or Shankhpushpi powder with warm water once or twice daily.

   • Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):

     • Benefits: Guduchi is a powerful immune-boosting herb with detoxifying properties. It helps to balance the body’s doshas, particularly Vata, and supports the nervous system.

     • How to Use: Guduchi powder (1 teaspoon) can be mixed with warm water or milk. Guduchi capsules can also be taken.

3. Ayurvedic Formulations

   • Chyawanprash:

     • Benefits: A well-known Ayurvedic formulation, Chyawanprash helps to strengthen the immune system and balance the Vata dosha. It is rich in Amla (Indian gooseberry), which is a powerful antioxidant.

     • How to Use: Take 1 teaspoon of Chyawanprash daily, preferably in the morning with warm water or milk.

   • Triphala:

     • Benefits: Triphala, a combination of three fruits (Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki), helps detoxify the body, balance the doshas, and supports the nervous system. It is beneficial in controlling Vata imbalances.

     • How to Use: Take 1/2 teaspoon of Triphala powder before bed with warm water.

4. Lifestyle Recommendations

   • Regular Meditation and Yoga: Practicing meditation, pranayama (breathing exercises), and yoga can significantly help in reducing stress and calming the mind, which is essential in managing epilepsy. Specific yoga poses like Shavasana, Sukhasana, and Pranayama are beneficial for reducing nervous system imbalances.

   • Adequate Sleep: Getting proper and restful sleep is crucial for controlling epilepsy. It helps the brain and body to repair and rejuvenate, reducing the likelihood of seizures.

   • Routine: Establishing a daily routine with regular eating, sleeping, and activity patterns can help manage Vata dosha and reduce the frequency of seizures.

   • Stress Management: Chronic stress can trigger seizures, so it’s important to adopt stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle walks in nature.

5. Detoxification (Panchakarma)

   • Panchakarma therapies, especially those that focus on Vata pacification, can be extremely beneficial in treating epilepsy. Basti (medicated enema) is one of the key therapies used to balance Vata and detoxify the body. Shirodhara (pouring warm oil on the forehead) is also effective in calming the nervous system and treating neurological conditions like epilepsy.

Conclusion

Epilepsy, from an Ayurvedic perspective, is primarily a Vata dosha imbalance that affects the nervous system. By adopting Ayurvedic remedies and lifestyle changes that focus on balancing Vata, soothing the nervous system, and supporting overall brain health, individuals with epilepsy can manage the condition more effectively.

It’s important to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before beginning any herbal treatments or therapies to ensure the remedies are tailored to your individual constitution and needs. Additionally, modern medical treatments for epilepsy should not be neglected and should be used in conjunction with Ayurveda for the best results.

Epilepsy, also known as seizure disorder, is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. In Ayurveda, epilepsy is considered to be a result of imbalances in the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), and the mind (Manas), which affects the nervous system. Ayurveda views epilepsy as a disturbance in the Sattva (mental clarity), Rajas (activity and passion), and Tamas (dullness and inertia) aspects of the mind.

Symptoms of Epilepsy According to Ayurveda:

In Ayurveda, the symptoms of epilepsy are linked to an imbalance in the Vata dosha, especially the Vata Prakriti (nervous system) and its relationship with the Tamas and Rajas aspects of the mind. The symptoms are grouped into:

1. Physical Symptoms:

   • Seizures or Convulsions (Vata imbalance): Sudden jerking movements, shaking, loss of consciousness, and muscle stiffness are indicative of seizures. These can vary in severity, from brief, mild episodes (like staring spells) to full-blown tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures.

   • Loss of Muscle Control (Vata): Involuntary body movements or jerking due to uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain.

   • Unusual Sensory Perceptions (Vata): Seizures might be preceded or followed by sensory experiences like unusual smells, tastes, or visual disturbances, which are believed to be associated with an aggravated Vata dosha.

   • Involuntary Movements (Vata): Movement of the body or specific limbs that is not under the person’s control, such as jerking of the head or limbs.

   • Difficulty in Speech (Vata & Kapha): During or after a seizure, speech may become difficult or incomprehensible.

2. Mental Symptoms:

   • Confusion or Disorientation (Tamas & Vata): After a seizure, the person may feel disoriented or confused for a short time, which is a sign of Tamas or excess Vata.

   • Loss of Consciousness (Vata imbalance): Loss of consciousness during a seizure indicates Vata’s disturbance of the nervous system and brain function.

   • Memory Loss (Vata & Pitta): Difficulty in recalling recent events or maintaining mental clarity can also occur.

   • Mood Fluctuations (Rajas & Tamas): Emotional instability, irritability, anxiety, or depression can follow or precede seizures.

3. Seizure Triggers (Vata):

   • Certain triggers like stress, lack of sleep, bright lights, or loud noises can initiate seizures due to an imbalance in the nervous system (Vata).

4. Other Symptoms:

   • Tiredness or Fatigue (Vata & Kapha): After a seizure, individuals may feel drained or exhausted due to the physical and mental toll of the seizure.

   • Digestive Issues (Vata & Pitta): Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea before or after a seizure.

Causes of Epilepsy According to Ayurveda:

1. Vata Dosha Imbalance:

   • Epilepsy is predominantly linked with Vata dosha disturbance, particularly the Prana Vata (which governs the nervous system and brain). The Vata imbalance can lead to electrical disturbances in the brain, causing the sudden, erratic movements and seizures associated with epilepsy.

   • Vata’s qualities of dryness, roughness, and movement contribute to the unpredictable nature of seizures.

2. Mental Stress (Rajas) and Emotional Imbalance (Tamas):

   • Prolonged mental stress, trauma, or emotional disturbances can increase Rajas (activity) and Tamas (inertia), which may trigger epileptic episodes. The mind becomes agitated, leading to a disruption in the body’s natural rhythms.

   • Sattva, the quality of clarity and peace, is disturbed, making the person more susceptible to seizures.

3. Imbalance of the Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha):

   • Vata and Pitta imbalances in the body can cause a rise in heat (Pitta) and dryness (Vata), leading to disturbances in the nervous system.

   • Kapha imbalances, often marked by heaviness, can also affect the body’s ability to clear toxins, which may lead to the accumulation of Ama (toxins) that negatively affect the nervous system.

4. Toxin Accumulation (Ama):

   • When the body’s digestive system is weak, undigested food forms Ama (toxins), which can accumulate in the tissues (Dhatus) and reach the brain, disturbing its function and causing neurological issues, including epilepsy.

5. Genetics:

   • Epilepsy can be hereditary, as certain genetic factors may predispose individuals to develop seizure disorders. This can contribute to the manifestation of seizures in early childhood or adolescence.

6. Other Causes:

   • Head Injury: Trauma to the head or neck can disrupt brain function and trigger seizures.

   • Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in essential vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes (e.g., calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6) can contribute to neurological issues.

   • Environmental Factors: External triggers such as loud sounds, flashing lights, or exposure to toxic substances can provoke seizures in some individuals.

   • Hormonal Imbalance: Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during puberty or menstruation, can contribute to the onset of epilepsy in some individuals.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Epilepsy:

The aim of Ayurvedic treatment for epilepsy is to restore balance to the doshas, calm the mind, and nourish the nervous system. Ayurvedic treatments use herbal remedies, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and therapies like Panchakarma to address the root causes and manage symptoms.

1. Herbal Remedies:

   • Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Brahmi is one of the most important herbs for brain health and is commonly used in treating neurological disorders. It calms the nervous system, improves memory, and reduces stress and anxiety. It is particularly effective for calming Vata and Pitta imbalances.

   • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps reduce stress, calm the nervous system, and balance Vata dosha. It has a grounding effect on the mind and body and helps prevent the triggering of seizures.

   • Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi): Known for its calming and neuroprotective properties, Jatamansi helps balance Vata and reduce mental restlessness and seizure activity. It is often used to treat epilepsy and other neurological disorders.

   • Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis): This herb is particularly useful for calming an overactive mind, improving focus, and stabilizing mood, which can prevent the triggers of epilepsy.

   • Vacha (Acorus calamus): Vacha helps to stimulate brain function, improve cognitive abilities, and prevent neurological disturbances, including seizures.

   • Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica): Gotu Kola helps to enhance mental clarity, reduce anxiety, and improve overall brain health. It is particularly useful in stabilizing the mind and promoting emotional balance.

   • Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina): Known for its calming and anti-hypertensive properties, Sarpagandha is used in Ayurveda to treat nervous disorders, including epilepsy. It helps calm the nervous system and reduce the frequency of seizures.

2. Panchakarma (Detoxification):

   • Shirodhara: Shirodhara, a technique where warm herbal oils are poured onto the forehead, is extremely effective in calming the mind, balancing the doshas, and treating neurological disorders like epilepsy.

   • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Regular oil massages with Ayurvedic oils like Bhringraj oil or Sesame oil help balance Vata, calm the nervous system, and reduce stress, which is a common trigger for seizures.

   • Nasya (Nasal Therapy): Nasya therapy involves the administration of medicated oils or powders through the nostrils. This treatment helps clear the sinuses, balance the doshas, and calm the mind.

3. Dietary Recommendations:

   • Vata-Pacifying Foods: Include warm, moist, and grounding foods such as soups, stews, whole grains, and ghee to balance the Vata dosha. Avoid cold, dry, or rough foods.

   • Pitta-Pacifying Foods: To cool Pitta, consume foods like cucumbers, melons, dairy products, leafy greens, and mint. Avoid spicy, acidic, and fried foods.

   • Kapha-Pacifying Foods: Light, easily digestible foods such as vegetables, legumes, and fruits help balance Kapha.

   • Magnesium and Calcium-Rich Foods: Include foods like almonds, sesame seeds, leafy greens, and bananas to support nervous system health.

   • Avoid Caffeine and Stimulants: These can aggravate Vata and trigger seizures. Reduce intake of stimulants like coffee, alcohol, and spicy foods.

4. Lifestyle Recommendations:

   • Stress Reduction: Meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Ujjayi pranayama (victorious breath) are effective for calming the mind and balancing the doshas.

   • Regular Sleep Cycle: Maintaining a consistent sleep routine helps to balance Vata and reduces the frequency of seizures.

   • Physical Activity: Gentle exercise like walking, yoga, and tai chi can help reduce stress and maintain balance in the nervous system.

5. Other Therapies:

   • Aromatherapy: Using essential oils like lavender and sandalwood can help reduce anxiety, calm the nervous system, and create a calming environment, preventing seizure triggers.

Conclusion:

Epilepsy in Ayurveda is seen as a result of imbalances in the doshas, particularly Vata, and disturbances in mental clarity. Ayurvedic treatments aim to calm the nervous system, restore balance, and detoxify the body through herbal remedies, Panchakarma, dietary changes, and stress management. It is important to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner to receive a personalized treatment plan for managing epilepsy and its symptoms effectively.