What to Do During an Epileptic Seizure? This Knowledge Is Essential!
Epilepsy is a medical condition in which seizures can occur at any time and in any place. An epileptic seizure is caused by excessive, uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain’s nerve cells—it is essentially an “electrical storm” within the brain. There are many types of seizures, ranging from brief, lightning-fast muscle twitches lasting less than a second, to full-body convulsions that can last two or three minutes. Some seizures may be subtle, causing brief lapses in attention or minor movements, while others are more dramatic, involving complete loss of consciousness and violent jerking of the limbs.
The exact causes of epilepsy are not fully understood. It can be hereditary, passed down through families, or result from certain factors such as a parent’s alcohol abuse, blood circulation issues, prolonged exposure to sunlight, or intensive physical labor. Head injuries, infections affecting the brain, and developmental disorders can also increase the risk of developing epilepsy.
If epilepsy is not properly managed, it can significantly reduce a person’s quality of life and may even result in serious injury or death. Every person with epilepsy reacts uniquely to treatment, and the response is often unpredictable. Therefore, a wide range of approaches is needed to manage the condition effectively. In addition to conventional medical treatments such as antiepileptic medications, there are also natural and traditional remedies that can help alleviate symptoms and support overall well-being. While these should never replace prescribed treatment, they may be used alongside it with a doctor’s approval.
Traditional Methods to Support Epilepsy Management
Over centuries, herbal medicine and folk remedies have been used to help manage epileptic seizures. Some herbs and natural preparations may help calm the nervous system, reduce seizure frequency, and improve overall neurological health. Here are several such remedies:
Violet Flower Tincture (Viola tricolor)
Take 3 tablespoons of violet flowers and pour ½ liter of wine over them. Let the mixture infuse for 21 days. Take 1 tablespoon three times a day.
Alternatively, prepare a stronger tincture by combining 25 grams of violet flowers with 100 milliliters of alcohol or vodka. Allow it to infuse for 3 days, then take 30–40 drops three times daily. This remedy is believed to support the nervous system and reduce seizure intensity.
Black Horehound (Ballota nigra)
Take 2 tablespoons of crushed black horehound (the flowering parts of the plant) and pour 200 milliliters of boiled water over it. Let it infuse for 8 hours. Drink this infusion throughout the day. Black horehound has traditionally been used to calm the nervous system and ease spasms.
Aromatic Support During a Seizure
Essential oils or aromatic herbs, such as the scent of Tegenaria (a traditional aromatic herb), can be inhaled during or after a seizure. The calming fragrance may help reduce post-seizure anxiety and promote relaxation.
Coriander in Diet
Adding coriander to meals can have a mild calming effect on the nervous system. It may help improve digestion and contribute to overall neurological health.
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) Infusion
Prepare a daily infusion using 3 tablespoons of motherwort and 1.5 cups of boiling water. Let it steep for 2 hours, then strain. Drink 6 cups of the infusion in small portions throughout the day, ideally before meals. Freshly prepare the infusion every day for maximum effectiveness. Motherwort has been used for centuries to soothe nervous tension and support heart and nervous system function.
Immediate Actions During an Epileptic Seizure
Knowing how to respond during a seizure can prevent injuries and save lives. If someone near you experiences an epileptic seizure, follow these guidelines:
Keep others at a safe distance: Clear the area around the person to prevent accidental injuries.
Remove dangerous objects: Move sharp or heavy items away from the person.
Do not restrain them: Trying to hold someone down can cause injuries to both the person and yourself.
Turn the person on their side: This helps keep the airway clear and reduces the risk of choking.
Time the seizure: Note the start time so that you know how long the seizure lasts. Most seizures end within a few minutes.
Do not put anything in the mouth: Contrary to popular myths, a person cannot swallow their tongue during a seizure. Inserting objects into the mouth can lead to broken teeth or other injuries.
After the seizure, allow the person to rest in a safe and comfortable position. Speak calmly and reassuringly. Offer water if they are fully conscious and alert, and monitor them closely for any complications. If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, or if another seizure begins immediately after the first, seek medical help immediately.
Long-Term Management
In addition to immediate care, people with epilepsy benefit from consistent long-term strategies:
Medication adherence: Always follow a doctor’s prescription. Do not skip doses.
Healthy lifestyle: Regular sleep, balanced nutrition, stress management, and avoidance of alcohol or recreational drugs can reduce seizure frequency.
Herbal and dietary support: Supplements like motherwort, violet, coriander, and black horehound, used as described, may help calm the nervous system and support overall neurological health.
Education and awareness: Educating family members, friends, and coworkers on how to respond to seizures can improve safety and quality of life.
Epilepsy management is highly individualized. What works for one person may not work for another, which is why a combination of medical treatment and supportive natural methods is often the most effective approach. While herbal remedies and dietary strategies cannot cure epilepsy, they may help improve quality of life, reduce seizure intensity, and support nervous system health.
By understanding both the immediate first aid steps and supportive long-term strategies, you can feel confident in helping someone during a seizure and contribute to their overall well-being. Knowledge about epilepsy is essential—not only for patients but also for family members, caregivers, and the community. Awareness, preparation, and careful management are the keys to living safely and fully with epilepsy.
