Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs and herbal formulations used in treatment of Epilepsy : The results of recently conducted ethnobotanical surveys in Chhattisgarh, India

Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia
© 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved

The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use the leaves of indigenous Aam (Desi Aam, Magnifera indica) varieties in treatment of Epilepsy. The healers collect half kg of Aam leaves and after crushing it, the pulp is boiled in half liters of base oil. As base oil, Til (Sesame) oil is in use. The oil with pulp is allowed to boil and when all watery contents evaporate, the boiling is stopped and oil is stored for future use. The healers consider this oil promising for Epilepsy. It is massaged gently on patient's body. During acute attack, the natives of Chhattisgarh Plains, use special herbal combination. The seeds of Ritha (Sapindus emarginatus) are rubbed on stones and with the help of Nimbu fruit (Lemon) juice, an aqueous paste is prepared. The natives give it to the patients and suggest them to inhale it. For this purpose, in many parts of Chhattisgarh the natives use the young branches of Kevda and flowers of Ketki. Both herbal parts are mixed in equal proportion and patients are advised to inhale it. The scientific name of Kewda is Pandanus odoratissimus. Kewda is planted in home gardens as ornamental plant. The scientific name of Ketki is Agave americana. This herb is planted to check soil erosion and also as live fence in Chhattisgarh.

As you know, Fudhar (Calotropis gigantea) is a common wasteland plant in the state. The natives use the latex with dried cow dung during acute attack. The patients are also advised to inhale the combination to get quick relief. The traditional healers of Durg region specialized in use of cow urine as medicine, prepare a herbal combination using Hing (Asafoetida) as main ingredient. In this combination cow ghee and urine are added. According to the healers, it is one of the promising treatments. This combination is given internally till complete cure. The healers also use the fresh leaf juice of Dhaincha (Sesbania sp.) In combination with cow urine for the same purpose. The traditional healers of Bastar region, use the root bark powder of Nishoth in treatment of Epilepsy. It is use both alone and in combination with other herbs. Nishoth is a common medicinal herb in this part of Chhattisgarh. According to reference, literatures Nishoth (Ipomoea turpethum syn. Operculina turpentum) is a twinning herb and a resinous substance (Turpethin) obtained from the root bark, is used as a purgative and acts as a substitute for Jalap. The healers of this region, also use the seeds of Ajwain (Carum copticum) in treatment. The patients are advised to take a teaspoonful of seeds twice a day upto long time to get rid from this trouble. It is also used in combination with other herbs. Jaiphal (Myrstica fragrans) is not a native to Chhattisgarh but the healers are aware of its medicinal properties and uses. According the traditional healer of Mudpa