A healthy mind is the result of equilibrium between a sound mind and a stable body. According to Ayurveda, an imbalance between the tridoshas manifests as various diseases. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by a loss of consciousness caused by an excess of electric activity from the neurons in the brain. Seizures may last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes.

In Ayurveda, epilepsy is referred to as Apasmara and seizures or convulsions are referred to as Akshepaka. It is a chronic condition that requires dietary and lifestyle modifications and herbal medications. There are various causes of epilepsy, including inappropriate eating habits, psychological instability, and dosha imbalance. Ayurvedic epilepsy therapy involves diagnosing the source of the ailment and addressing it using herbal medications.

Types of Epilepsy in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, epilepsy could be classified into four types based on Dosha imbalance.

• Vataj seizures – Caused by Vata dosha imbalance like lack of sleep, constipation, overexertion, and mental stress
• Pittaj seizures – Certain inflammatory conditions increase the Pitta levels that ultimately lead to increased heat in the head
• Kaphaj seizures- This is often due to a blockage of the nervous system. The vital sign of Kapha epilepsy is the excessive secretion of saliva
• Sannipatik seizures – Caused by the corruption of all three Doshas.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of epilepsy are as follows:

• Seizures
• Teeth-biting
• Foamy saliva
• Breathing difficulties
• Rough skin
• Hyperpigmentation on the body
• Blurred speech or muttering
• Retraction of the head
• Discomfort in the fingers
• Uncontrolled jerking of the limbs
• Involuntary twitching of the eyebrows
• Rapid flicking of the eyes
• Drowsiness, muscle tension
• Fatigue
• Heart constrictions
• Lack of appetite
• Auditory or visual hallucinations
• Body pain

Causative Factors

• Hereditary tendencies
• Injury to the brain or nervous system
• Severe shock
• Diseases like typhoid and meningitis
• Allergic reactions to specific food ingredients
• Circulatory illnesses such as a heart attack or stroke
• Fever
• Chronic alcoholism
• Lead poisoning
• Hallucinogens
• Stimulants like cocaine
• Antidepressants
• Drug misuse or overuse (e.g., sedatives like benzodiazepines and barbiturates)
• Conflict in the mind includes prolonged grief, passion or fury, and irrational fear or hatred.
• Inadequate mineral absorption, such as a lack of magnesium, or appropriate levels of vital minerals like haemoglobin
• Unhealthy eating habits

Ayurveda for managing Epilepsy

The Ayurvedic approach to epilepsy stimulates the brain and brings the nervous system back to its normal state of functioning. Along with dietary and lifestyle changes that promote light, easily digested food, and low levels of mental strain, nourishing herbs with a restorative effect are administered.

A management regimen for epilepsy emphasizes:

• Panchakarma (ayurvedic detox), purgation, emesis, and nasal medication (Vamana, Virechana, and Nasya)
• Psychological assistance (Ashwasana)
• Specific herbal formulations to strengthen the body and mind and
• Rejuvenation therapy (Rasayana)

Panchakarma for Epilepsy

Panchakarma is an Ayurvedic detox procedure. It helps to clear blocked channels in the body and mind brought on by unbalanced doshas. A personalized panchakarma regimen comprises medicated oil massage (abhyanga), steam baths (swedana), therapeutic purgations (virechana), enemas (vasti), nasal administration of medication (nasya), and nervous system therapy (Shirodhara).

Our highly expert ayurvedic doctor in Melbourne can develop effective detox therapies that are designed to manage your individual epilepsy conditions and symptoms.

Diet and lifestyle modifications 

• Reduce sweet, oily, fatty, alcohol, fish products, spicy foods, etc
• Always consume freshly cooked meals.
• Reduce the usage of stimulating foods and beverages like coffee and alcoholic beverages
• Avoid condiments like chili, mustard, pepper, etc.
• Avoid stress and mental tension.
• Maintain a proper sleep pattern.
• Regularly practice Ayurveda procedures like self-oil massage, nasya, etc.
• Practice yoga, meditation, and pranayama for relaxation.
• Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E.
• Follow a Ketogenic diet. Studies say that an elevated level of ketone bodies in the blood (Ketosis) reduces the frequency of epileptic seizures.

Takeaway

If you are looking for a natural approach to managing seizures, Ayurveda treatment can help. At Ayurclinic Melbourne, we offer personalized Ayurvedic therapies to manage epilepsy. Our aim is to help people in every possible way.

Book an appointment with us today and start your journey towards a healthy life. You may also contact our experts at +61 3 9078 2940 for availing holistic treatment for your symptoms of epilepsy.