Dinesh Upadhya

Epilepsy, a chronic non-communicable disease of the brain, is one of the most common neurological diseases globally, that affects people of all ages. The existence of medical, neurological, psychiatric, and cognitive comorbidities has always undermined the available advanced treatment strategies for epilepsy. New-generation antiepileptic drugs being less successful in completely controlling the seizures and observance of complex diseases, including drug-resistant cases, have provided scope for integrating and incorporating the therapeutic modalities of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian art of holistic medicine, in the effective management of epilepsy. Epilepsy can be correlated to Apasmara, described in the classics of Ayurveda as the transient appearance of unconsciousness with loathsome expression due to derangement of memory, intelligence, and mind. The multifaceted therapeutic approach of Ayurveda, which involves pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic measures, purificatory and pacifying procedures, herbal and herbo-mineral formulations, disease, and host-specific approaches, has enhanced the potential of not only relieving symptoms but also modifying the pathophysiology of the disease. Newer paradigms of research in Ayurveda, along with holistic and integrative approaches with contemporary Medicine, can benefit the existing healthcare system and impact future healthcare management of epilepsy.