Natural Approaches For Treating Epilepsy

Written by Thomas Corriher Thursday, 28 January 2010 03:31

Epilepsy is a term used to encompass various types of seizure disorders, which are believed to be caused by abnormal electrical signals in the brain.  About 2.5 million Americans are currently known to suffer from epilepsy.  The medical establishment's approaches include anti-seizure pharmaceuticals, psychological help, and brain surgery.  The anti-epileptic medications have a reputation of having horrific side-effects, which include suicidal ideation, jaundice, kidney and liver failure, blurred vision, aplastic anemia (failure to produce blood cells), impaired cognitive function, bone loss, and even worsened seizures.

Doctors believe that the risks of these medications are worthwhile, in exchange for a reduction in seizures.  To make matters worse, when these side-effects appear, doctors often fail to recognize that these symptoms are side-effects, instead of new health conditions.  This results in unnecessary medications, and worsening health problems.  There is no medical procedure that is more dangerous than brain surgery, yet this is seen as a viable option for some people who suffer from seizures.  It is used by the medical establishment as a final shot (in the dark) at eliminating epilepsy.

Unless the seizures are brought on by stress, psychological help is not usually helpful in preventing seizures.  Modern psychiatric care leaves much to be desired, and now it simply focuses on the different chemical straight jacket's that can be applied to make a person seem more 'normal'.  However, seizures can be very traumatic for sufferers, especially when they include involuntary urination, so good psychological assistance can be valuable.  We recommend seeking a Jungian Analytical Psychologist, when needed.

The Causes and Cures of Epilepsy

Epileptic seizures can be triggered by many additives that are in processed foods.  Most notably, aspartame, an artificial sweetener that is known to induce seizures. Two main constituents of aspartame include phenylalanine and aspartic acid.  Aspartic acid is an excitotoxin, which means that it over-excites nerves, causing them to literally burn-out and die.   Phenylalanine is a known neurotoxin, so aspartame should be avoided by all individuals.  Beware whenever you see "sugar-free" on a package.

Zinc deficiency has been shown to cause seizures.  A study that was published in 1990, entitled, Effects of dietary zinc status on seizure susceptibility and hippocampal zinc content in the El (epilepsy) mouse, showed that zinc deficiency caused seizures, and this could be quickly corrected with adequate zinc supplementation.  Epilepsy sufferers have noted improvements in their condition with zinc.

Magnesium is a vital component of epilepsy recovery, and many believe magnesium deficiency to be the root cause of epileptic seizures.  Lots of people choose to supplement with magnesium using Epsom salt (magnesium sulphate).  While this is an option, some impurities may be present in retail brands of Epsom salt, for it is not meant for oral consumption.  Some companies are dedicated to selling completely pure 'food grade' Epsom salt.  We cannot attest to the honesty of any of these companies.  If you choose to use Epsom salt, then the ideal dosage is about a ½ teaspoon each morning.  Otherwise, you can purchase magnesium supplements from health foods stores, or increase your dietary intake through almonds, cashews, and spinach.  Studies have verified the link between magnesium deficiency and epilepsy.

Valerian is a very popular antispasmodic medication in Russia and Germany.  In America, it is mostly known for its sedative effect, but it also has an anti-convulsant action that is beneficial to epileptic people.  In addition, it has been shown to aid concentration.  Low doses are recommended to avoid its sedative effect. 

Scullcap and Indian Tobacco (lobelia) have both traditionally been used for convulsions, seizures, and tremors.  Although there have been few studies determining their effectiveness.  Skullcap is believed to be calming, while Indian tobacco is believed to relax the muscles.  In time, we will do an article on the many benefits of Indian Tobacco, which is a safe and health-inducing type of tobacco.  Technically, it is not really in the tobacco family, but it is commonly smoked.

Vitamin B1 and vitamin E have shown very positive results in helping people who are suffering with epilepsy.  Epilepsy has been linked to a vitamin B1 deficiency.

Based on the aforementioned approaches, it is obvious that a good diet is essential for overcoming epilepsy.  As always, we recommend avoidance of all 'white' products, including white sugar, white flour, and white rice.  It is especially important for the epileptic to avoid artificial sweeteners and additives.  People who suffer from this condition often obtain benefits from a heavy metal cleanse, which can be purchased at health food stores.  Be sure to read the ingredients on these products before purchasing.  Drink spring water, and eat a balanced diet, which includes range-fed meats (preferably organic), whole grains, and organic fruits and vegetables.  There are no healthy breads (not even whole wheat) in regular retailers anymore, so we recommend buying a bread maker.

Radiation from sources such as televisions (particularly the new generation of high-power L.C.D.'s), microwaves, video game systems, radio towers, and cellular towers can trigger severe seizures.  For the first time, I am asking readers to accept something in faith, without us being able to verify it.  My source for the information about radiation cannot be revealed.