Epilepsy

Epilepsy refers to a disorder in which the person has a tendency to have seizures or fits. A seizure is due to abnormal electrical activity of the brain.

Causes

• Injury to baby during delivery.
• Delay in delivery with decreased oxygen supply to brain.
• Hydrocephalus-excessive fluid in the brain.
• Infections of the brain-meningitis, encephalitis.
• Tumours, tuberculosis, parasites in the brain.
• Drugs e.g. pencillin chloroquine, medicines for depression, angina.

Signs & Symptoms

A typical fit involves movement of one or both limbs of the body with or without loss of consciousness. During the fit some patients lose control of urine and stool. The patient after regaining consciousness, is confused, may have headache and go to sleep.

Herbal Medicines

1. Cow's ghee is used for deep inhalation.
2. Garlic-Rason Kalp-a preparation is taken once a day. Garlic strings are crushed and boiled with milk. When reduced to half, it is ready for use.

Ayurvedic Remedies

1. Brahmivati is a drug of choice 1-2 pills 2 times a day.
2. Tab. Mentat (Himalaya Drugs) 1 tab. three times a day for 6 months to 3 years.
3. Vacha powder ½ teaspoonful is also used three times a day.
4. Brihat-vat-kulantak Ras is very good in curing epilepsy but should be taken under supervision.
5. Til oil or Brahmi Amla Taila is good for head massage.

Do's & Don'ts

Mental strain of all types should be avoided. Intake of pungent things is strictly prohibited.