Epilepsy is a long-term chronic condition which is defined by seizures. Now we must first know that the neurons present in our brain, fire continuously to pass signals and messages to and fro in the body. When these neurons are affected and irritated by any reason, there is excessive firing of these neurons which is abnormal. These reasons for excessive firing can be any injury or damage to brain, high fever, excess alcohol intake, use of some drugs, exposure to toxins or toxic gases, nerve tissue damage etc. All these reasons may lead to abnormal neuronal firing. When this abnormal firing is continued for long period of time; the condition is called epilepsy. Epilepsy is of different types depending on the cause of seizures and also depending on the part of brain which is affected; also it can happen in any age group.
Epilepsy and its types can be diagnosed and confirmed using various diagnostic tests like EEG (electroencephalogram), blood tests, PET scan (positron emission tomography) and a spinal tap test. There are number of medicines available to treat epilepsy; and the choice of drug depends on factors like patient’s age, duration of disease, severity of disease, over all medical history etc. However one limiting factor is the side effects caused by these medicines. Although you can completely stop using anti-epileptic medicines, however you can definitely supplement them with herbal drugs which might provide beneficial results with no additional harm to the patient. Let us have a look at the herbal remedies for epilepsy management.
Here Are Some Effective Ways To Treat Epilepsy:
Ketogenic Diet
Basically a ketogenic diet is one which helps in reducing seizures; it is high in fat content and low in protein and low in carbohydrate content. Such diet is recommended with individual considerations and your doctor and dietician both will monitor it. Structurally the diet consists about 4 gm of fats for every 1 gm of carbohydrates; which means it is a 4:1 ratio. A 3:1 ratio is preferred for children and infants. The typical fat delivering foods used are butter, cream, mayonnaise, fish-oils etc. and a very strict control has to be maintained on the carbs intake levels. Preferably a doctor suggests starting this diet in a hospital and once the body gets accustomed to it, the patient can continue it at home.
Garlic
An age-old method to reduce seizures is by use of garlic in a very typical manner. So what is done here is crushed garlic is taken and put in a mixture of milk and water which is boiled for 10-15min and cooled down. It should be consumed only once in a day.
Magnesium
Many of the studies in epileptic patients have proven that magnesium deficiency increases epileptic seizures in patients. Thus these levels can either be balanced by food or external supplements. There are number of supplements available and you must consult your doctor for the supplement which is ideal for you; foods that are rich in magnesium contain spinach, cashew nuts, walnuts, almonds, egg etc.
Vitamin Supplements
Use of certain vitamins like 5-HTP and vitamin E called alpha tocopherol are beneficial in reducing seizures. Other vitamins like vitamin B6, Vitamin B3 and other fat soluble vitamins are also beneficial.
Aromatherapy
In case of epilepsy not all essential oils can be use; keep in mind certain oils might lead to convulsions and make the case even more severe. Thus an expert opinion is a must. Now examples of essential oils used for aromatherapy to reduce seizures are eucalyptus oil, fennel extract oil, rosemary extract oil etc.
Acupuncture Or Reflexology
These techniques come under alternative treatment methodologies for epilepsy. Both these points include certain points in the body for healing process. Now reflexology involves relieving pressure from the points whereas acupuncture uses pins or needles to stimulate and release energy into the body; both techniques stimulate the healing process.
Meditation
Meditation and yoga improves blood circulation and improves oxygen supply to the blood. This provides energy to the brain and reduces neuronal firing thus alleviating seizures. A regular practice of yoga and meditation is proven to control incidences of severe epileptic seizures.
Improved And Similar Sleep Pattern
A basic technique is to regularise your sleep pattern; that means if you sleep on time get enough sleep and maintain the same sleeping schedule every day, the irritation to neurons reduces and eventually the excessive firing comes under control.
We had a look at some natural remedies for epilepsy; it is also very important to prepare the house and other surrounding for an epileptic patient to reduce risk of injury. This includes preparing the room, kitchen, bathroom etc. by eliminating any pointed edges, placing handles at suitable areas. Also it is advisable to install alarms at easily accessible places in the house.
