A seizure is defined by transmission of anomalous electrical signals by the brain cells to different parts of the body. The cause of such an abnormal signal is not known but doctors suspect the signals can be the result of dementia, head injury and even meningitis. The condition can be cured using a combination of medicinal drugs as well as osteopathy, a form of physical therapy.
There are certain herbs, as well, that have proven to be very effective in the treatment of seizures.
Effective Herbs for Seizures
Bupleurum
This Chinese herb is widely used in preparing several herbal powders that include sho-saiko and saiko-kesihi; both the herbal preparations are meant for treatment of seizures. The herb is known to work well in treating the condition when used in combination with other herbs that include cassia, peony, ginger and jujube.
The herbal preparations have shown no side effects in the studies that have been conducted so far. But their effect is not known on pregnant women.
Valerian
Valerian comes from the forests of Europe and Asia and is well known for its medicinal properties that have been used in the treatment of various medical conditions. The herb is mildly sedative and is best used in combination with lemon balm, another sedative herb, to treat seizures.
However, long term use of valerian is not advised. Prepare tea using valerian and drink 3-4 cups daily. Continue the treatment for a month and then stop for 2 weeks. Begin the treatment again after two weeks for a month. Keep up with this pattern to control the frequency of seizures.
Kava
Kava is found growing in the South Pacific region and is from the same family as black pepper and cayenne pepper. The herb is known for its excellent therapeutic properties that have been successfully used in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety and stress related disorders as well as menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, sweating etc.
Due to its sedative properties Kava has been used in the treatment of seizures. However, the herb has to be taken under supervision as it can cause severe liver damage even if taken in small quantities. The herbal tea is sold in many stores but should not be taken by people on prescribed medications.
Passionflower
Passionflower helps both in the treatment as well as in the prevention of seizures. Passionflower promotes the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a kind of chemical found in the brain. This chemical helps decrease the level of brain activity thereby encouraging the organ to relax. The herb is sold in both tea and tincture form and drinking 3 cups of the herbal tea daily will prevent the occurrence of seizures.
Hyssop
Hyssop is known for its antiseptic properties that come handy in the treatment of cuts, burns, infections and other types of injuries. But the herb is also used for treating seizures because of the presence of active chemicals that work directly on the nervous system and prevent the nerves from getting agitated. This prevents the transmission of altered signals from the brain. Hyssop tea should be had 3-4 times during the day to control the occurrence of seizures.
