Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a condition which affects the central nervous system. An outbreak of chaotic electrical activity in the brain leads to a seizure, which can be partial or result in loss of consciousness. There are many causes of epilepsy, including birth trauma, head injury, food sensitivity, flickering light, loud noise and fatigue, although often no specific cause is found. Most people with epilepsy take medication, but some prevent seizures by avoiding triggers, and complementary therapies can help by reducing stress. If you see someone have a seizure, lie them on their side, remove any nearby dangerous or breakable objects, loosen clothing at their neck and ensure that their airway is clear. Do not put anything in their mouth. If the seizure lasts longer than 3 minutes, call an ambulance.
Dietary Advice For Epilepsy
Italian researchers examined 31 patients with epilepsy and found 24 had undiagnosed coliac disease (gluten intolerance). Gluten is found in wheat, oats, barley and rye, and following a gluten-free diet is essential. Other food allergies may be responsible. The nutrients zinc, magnesium and calcium, and the amino acid taurine, can make seizures less likely. Some children with epilepsy are deficient in essential nutrients such as vitamins B1, B6, D, E, folic acid and selenium. However, it is unwise to self-supplement or radically change your diet if you have epilepsy, so see a qualified nutritional therapist. People with epilepsy should restrict stimulants such as coffee and alcohol.
Complimentary Remedies For Epilepsy
Dr Tim Betts, at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, has been successfully using essential oils to reduce seizures in people with epilepsy. However, self-medicating with oils is not recommended. Certain oils, such as rosemary, sage, hyssop and fennel, may even trigger a seizure.
Relaxation exercises, meditation and cranial osteopathy can help reduce stress levels. Complementary treatments should be given by a qualified therapist and relaxation techniques learnt from an experienced teacher.
Camomile tea helps relaxation. Use a tea bag, or 1 tsp dried flowers, to a cup of boiling water, leave for 5 to 10 minutes, strain and drink.
You can treat a child during a seizure by pressing an acupressure point in the furrow above the upper lip, just below the nose. Apply firm pressure to the point, pressing down towards the lips for up to 2 minutes.
Recommended Ready Made Natural Remedies For Epilepsy
- Epi-Still – a proven herbal epileptic seizures remedy and alternative epilepsy drugs treatment.
- Triple Complex Nerve Tonic – Homeopathic remedy that relieves the effects of stress, worry and nervous tension, plus supports nervous system health.
- TremorSoothe – homeopathic remedy temporarily controls shakes, tremors, twitches and muscle spasms.
