Abstract

AYURVEDIC CONCEPT OF APASMARA (EPILEPSY) AND ITS MANAGEMENT

Vd. Anil Padghan*, Vd. Jayprakash Khairnar and Vd. Vikram Shelvale

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Abstract

Epilepsy is defined as a brain disorder with neurobiologic, cognitive, psychological, and social implications, as well as a chronic tendency to suffer epileptic seizures. The disease called Apasmar (epilepsy/seizure disorder) weakens or impairs memory (Smaranshakti). Most of the clinical symptoms of Apasmar are similar to those of epilepsy and seizure disorders. Ghritkalpana, or ghee boiled with several medicinal herbs, is one of the numerous Ghee/Oil (Snehakalpana) medication compositions mentioned by early Ayurvedic authors to combat Apasmar. Various Ghritkalpana are used with good results and the preservation of general health to treat seizures and the adverse effects of synthetic antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). The failure to control seizures characterizes intractable or refractory epilepsy, even in patients who get the best care feasible from mainstream medications. The ketogenic diet significantly improved seizure control in these patients. Along with medication, two of the main tenets of Ayurveda's approach to disease management are fasting (Langhan) and Ghritkalpanas (medicated Ghee preparations). There have been notable reductions in the frequency of seizures following a period of fasting (Langhan) and the generation of ketone bodies by Ghritkalpanas, or medicated Ghee preparations. Numerous ancient scholars suggested different Ghritkalpanas for the treatment of Apasmara (epilepsy) in different samhitas. It seems more beneficial to treat seizure disorders using AEDs plus the ketogenic diet as an adjuvant. Thus, the focus of this publication is on the pathophysical and biochemical changes brought about by Apasmaraghna Ghrit in addition to their therapeutic effects.

Keywords: Apasmaraghna Ghrita kalpana, Apasmara, Ghrita, Ketogenic diet, Epilepsy.