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A recent health survey indicates that around 10-12 million people in India live with epilepsy, which comes to nearly 1% of the population. Living with epilepsy means dealing not only with sudden seizures but also their effects like tiredness, confusion, anxiety as well.

This is where Ayurveda becomes important. Its holistic, person-centred approach appeals to many because it promises not just seizure control but rather mind, body and lifestyle balance. So, if you are wondering: Can epilepsy be treated in a more natural, long-lasting way? The answer is yes and Ayurveda is the way.

Many Indians now seek epilepsy treatment in Ayurveda as it corresponds with age-old remedies, has fewer synthetic drugs and promotes overall wellness rather than symptom control. While modern medicine provides quick seizure suppression, Ayurveda seeks harmony and seeks to lessen relapse with age.

What is Epilepsy And Why Does It Happen?

Epilepsy is a condition where your brain goes through sudden bursts of unusual electrical activity randomly. This causes seizures that look different from person to person. Some people just may stare blankly for a few seconds, while some may shake or fall suddenly. These episodes can be short or long, mild or severe but are generally sudden.

Causes of Epilepsy in Modern Medicine

As per modern medicine, epilepsy may occur for many reasons. Some are born with it because of certain genetic conditions. Other people might develop it later on in life because of brain injuries, infections such as meningitis or even strokes. The reason often is not clear. Lifestyle factors such as alcohol abuse or lack of sleep or insomnia can also trigger seizures.

Causes of Epilepsy in Ayurveda

Epilepsy is called ‘Apasmara’ in Ayurveda. It is believed to occur due to Vata dosha imbalance and mental disturbances due to Rajo and Tamo gunas. These imbalances impact your mind and nervous system. Eating impure or stale food, taking stress, grief and suppressing natural urges may also upset your inner equilibrium and cause epileptic symptoms as per Ayurveda.

Common Symptoms/Early Signs of Epilepsy

These are some common symptoms of epilepsy that you need to watch out for:

• Staring suddenly or a blank look.
• Jerky motions in arms or legs.
• Stiffness in the body.
• Fainting or blackouts.
• Loss of awareness or consciousness.
• After the episode, confusion or unusual behaviour may occur.
• Fear or anxiety before a seizure.

How Does Modern Medicine Treat Epilepsy?

Modern medicine treats epilepsy by helping you control and reduce seizures with daily medications. These are called Anti Epileptic Drugs (AEDs). They calm the electrical activity in your brain so seizures don't occur, or occur less frequently. You won't feel the medicines working immediately, but they help over time when taken regularly.

The most commonly prescribed AEDs include:

Carbamazepine - Used for partial seizures.
Valproic Acid (Valproate) - Used for many kinds of seizures.
Phenytoin - One of the oldest (still effective).
Levetiracetam - Less side effects make it popular today.

Your doctor (generally a neurologist) will prescribe the right medicine for your seizure based on your type, age, health and response to therapy.

What Does Ayurveda Say About Epilepsy?

As we have already discussed, epilepsy is called Apasmara in Ayurveda. It's considered a disorder of the body and mind. During an episode of epilepsy, you might lose consciousness, fall down or exhibit unusual movements.

According to Ayurvedic texts, epilepsy occurs due to an imbalance of Vata dosha and disturbance of the mental qualities Rajo guna and Tamo guna. These are energies that regulate your thoughts, emotions and behaviours. When these gunas and doshas are disturbed, your mind becomes restless or cloudy and you may experience seizures.

What Causes Epilepsy as per Ayurveda?

Ayurveda gives a number of reasons for this imbalance:

• Eating stale or impure food.
• Suppressing natural urges (sneezing, hunger, sleep).
• Mental strain like excessive grief, fear, anger, or lust.
• Overthinking or using your senses in harmful ways (excess screen time, noise).
• Weak digestive fire (Agni) resulting in toxin accumulation.

In other words, both your mental and physical health are involved. This is why Ayurveda treats the whole person, not just the symptoms.

Pro Tip: Avoid These Habits That Aggravate Apasmara

• Do not skip meals or eat junk food frequently.
• Avoid staying awake late at night.
• Do not stuff up emotions like stress or sadness.
• Avoid overusing electronic devices which overstimulate your mind.

What Is the Approach of Epilepsy Treatment in Ayurveda?

Ayurveda seeks to bring back balance to your body and calm your brain. The treatment is holistic, i.e., it considers everything: your diet, lifestyle, emotions and habits. The objective is to control epilepsy by correcting the underlying cause and preventing recurrence.

1. Panchakarma Therapies

Ayurvedic detox treatments rid your body of toxins and balance your doshas. Some of the common Ayurvedic therapies for epilepsy are :

• Virechana (purgation) - to balance Pitta.
• Basti (medicated enema) - to relax Vata.
• Nasya (nasal drops) - to feed brain tissues.

These therapies are done under expert supervision and adapted to your Prakriti and needs.

2. Sattvavajaya Chikitsa (Mind Strengthening Therapy)

This involves proper counselling, emotional support and mental training. It helps you build inner strength, reduce anxiety and fear, and control your emotions better.

3. Herbal Medicines

Ayurveda uses brain-tonic herbs that keep you calm, improve memory and reduce the chance of seizures.

Which Herbs Are Used in Ayurvedic Treatment for Epilepsy?

Ayurveda uses natural herbs to calm and support your brain health. These herbs reduce nervous tension, improve brain function, and reduce the risk of seizures.

Most common Ayurvedic medicines for epilepsy are:

Brahmi: Improves memory and calms the mind.
Shankhpushpi: Reduces anxiety and improves focus.
Ashwagandha: Strengthens the nervous system and reduces stress.
Jatamansi: Acts as a natural tranquiliser for better sleep.
Mandukaparni (Gotu Kola): Increases circulation to the brain and alertness.

Pros and Cons of Ayurveda vs Modern Medicine for Epilepsy?

In epilepsy treatment, Ayurveda and modern medicine (Allopathy) are complementary but have their strengths and weaknesses. Your best choice may depend on your condition, lifestyle, and response to treatment. Let us compare these two systems of medicine:

When Should You Pick One or Both?

• If you are having frequent or severe seizures, start with allopathy.
• If you want long-term balance with fewer side effects, Ayurveda can be a better option.
• Many people also prefer a combined approach, using allopathy for control and Ayurveda for healing.

Final Thoughts

Living with epilepsy can feel confusing, but you do not need to go through it by yourself. If you're taking medicines every day or exploring natural ways to heal, the goal is to reduce seizures and live a better life. Many people are now choosing Ayurveda for its more individualised, body-and-mind approach, which addresses the root cause of epilepsy rather than just the symptoms.

For a more personalised consultation on any neurological problems, talk to a Jiva certified doctor today by calling us on 0129-4264323.

FAQs

Which Ayurvedic medicine works best for epilepsy?
Herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Shankhpushpi, Jatamansi and Mandukaparni are commonly used for Ayurvedic treatment of epilepsy. Take them as per expert Ayurvedic guidance.

Is there a 100% cure for epilepsy?
Epilepsy can be well-managed with the right treatment and care. Many people live healthy, seizure-free lives by taking proper medicine, following lifestyle changes, and avoiding triggers

Which fruit is good for epilepsy?
Bananas, apples and pomegranates are good for brain health and symptom management.

Is epilepsy genetic?
Yes, in some instances. But not everyone with a family history will develop it.