EXPLORING THE ETIOLOGY OF EPILEPSY: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF AYURVEDA AND CONTEMPORARY STANDPOINTS

Main Article Content

Dr. Priyal Patel
Dr. Swapnil Raskar
Dr. Siddhi Patil
Dr. Mayank Maniar

Keywords

Apasmara, Ayurveda, Dosha, Epilepsy, Etiology.

Abstract

Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, presents a complex challenge in both diagnosis and treatment. This article explores the causes of epilepsy from the perspectives of Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine, and contemporary medical science. Ayurveda describes epilepsy, known as Apasmara, as a condition arising from imbalances in the body's fundamental energies (Doshas – Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and mental states (Rajas and Tamas). Factors such as improper diet, lifestyle choices, repressed emotions, and sensory overload triggers the imbalance of Dosha. Apasmara have four types based on the predominant Dosha involved, each with distinct clinical manifestations. Modern medicine focuses on identifying specific etiologies for epilepsy, categorized as structural, genetic, infectious, metabolic, immunity, and unknown. Structural causes involve brain lesions or abnormalities, genetic causes includes inherited genes. Infectious etiologies encompass bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections affecting the brain. Metabolic causes involve different encephalopathies. Immune-mediated epilepsy arises from autoimmune diseases affecting the brain. Despite advancements in understanding these causes, a significant proportion of epilepsy cases remain classified as having unknown etiology. Modern medicine emphasizes biological and neurological mechanisms; Ayurveda highlights the interconnectedness of mind and body, suggesting that emotional disturbances and lifestyle factors can significantly contribute to the development of epilepsy. Both perspectives acknowledge the role of stress and sensory overload in triggering seizures. However, Ayurveda's approach is more individualized and holistic, considering the patient's overall constitution and lifestyle. This comparative analysis reveals the strengths and limitations of both perspectives. Modern medicine offers a precise, disease-oriented approach; Ayurveda provides a broader, individualized perspective with emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. Integrating these viewpoints could lead to a more comprehensive understanding of epilepsy and potentially offer patients a wider range of therapeutic options. Further research, particularly clinical trials evaluating Ayurvedic treatments, is need to explore the potential benefits of this integrative approach.

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