An epileptic attack is an abrupt and excessive electrical discharge of neurons. Ayurveda describes the epileptic attack as Akshepaka.

Epilepsy is a condition in which a transient loss of consciousness occurs for a certain period, lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes. In Ayurveda it is known as Apasmara.

Acharya Charaka defined this condition as a disorder characterized by occasional loss of consciousness associated with suspended memory, intellect and mind.

Its cardinal feature is loss of memory (consciousness), with the feeling of entering into darkness, accompanied by involuntary movements.

Causative factors

• Long-term intake of unwholesome food such as maida items and junk food
• Long-term grief, passion and anger
• Subconscious fear
• Subconscious hatred
• Weak mind
• Unethical behaviour
• Irregularity of aggravated doshas

Premonitory symptoms (Purvarupa)

• Contracted eyebrows
• Continuous deviation of the eyes
• Auditory hallucinations
• Salivation and nasal discharge
• Loss of interest in food
• Sensation of spasm and chest tightness
• Fatigue
• Pain in the muscles and joints all over the body
• Fainting
• Abnormal dreams
• Giddiness
• Hallucinations

Clinical features (Rupa)

• Convulsions, with or without tongue biting
• Dribbling of frothy saliva
• Expiratory dyspnoea
• Red or black discoloration of the body surface
• Unstable limb movements
• Head turned to one side
• Involuntary speech or murmuring

Classification

Apasmara is classified into four types:

• Vataja
• Pittaja
• Shleshmaja
• Sannipataja (mixed dosha symptoms)

Tips to prevent attacks

• Wear sunglasses and/or a hat on sunny days, and avoid flashing lights as much as possible.
• Sleep 6–8 hours and do not skip night sleep.
• Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids:
  • Flax seed powder (½ tsp per day, can be added to smoothies)
  • Walnuts
  • Soybean
  • Tofu
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Cauliflower
  • Winter squash (pumpkin)
• Bathing water should be lukewarm, neither too cold nor too warm.
• Don't fast or keep long gaps between meals.
• Use pure ghee, olive oil and butter in the diet.
• Avoid very sweet products and artificial sugar.

Pathya (recommended)

Apathya (avoid)

• Eating heavy meals
• Viruddhahara (incompatible food combinations)
• Alcohol
• Fish
• Suppression of hunger and thirst
• Insulting teachers and elders (Guru Vriddhapachara)
• Unethical activities
• Staying awake at night
• Excessive physical or mental stress (Shrama)
• Heavy exercise
• Overthinking (Chinta)

Treatment

Along with Panchakarma procedures such as Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya and Shirodhara, Saghrita oral formulations and psychological counselling are also required.

Formulations that strengthen weak areas of the brain and weak muscles, along with Rasayanas, are essential.