Seizure

A seizure, or convulsion, is a sudden, uncontrollable contraction of a group of muscles. It may be mild or violent. When a child experiences a convulsion, all or part of his body may stiffen and jerk either with tiny, almost imperceptible movements, or with large, obvious movements.

Although a seizure usually lasts only a few minutes, seeing a child undergo this is a frightening experience for a parent. The child loses consciousness. His body may twitch or shake. His eyes may roll back and his teeth may clench. Breathing may be labored and heavy. The child may froth at the mouth, and may wet himself.

Seizures can have a variety of causes, including high fever, a head injury, poisoning, shock, epilepsy, brain infection, or an allergic reaction. It may be an isolated occurrence or the result of a chronic disorder.

After a seizure has run its course, the child will sleep. Upon awakening, he will feel fatigued, disoriented, and dazed.

Supplements and herbs

Herbal treatments for seizures are directed at supporting recovery once the seizure has run its course and emergency medical care, if appropriate, has been administered.

See age-appropriate dosages of herbal remedies

• Chamomile, licorice, passion flower, skullcap, and valerian root are all herbs that help to relax the nervous system. Give your child one dose of any of these herbs, either individually or in any combination, twice a day, for one week following a seizure.
  Note: Licorice should not be given to a child with high blood pressure. Skullcap should not be given to a child less than six years old.
• The following twelve-week regimen is helpful for supporting recovery from a seizure.
  Weeks 1-4: Minor bupleurum is a Chinese herb that helps to regulate the nervous system. Give your child one dose, twice a day, for the first week after a seizure. Then give your child one dose daily for three weeks.
  Note: Minor bupleurum should not be given to a child with a fever or any other sign of an acute infection.
  Weeks 5-8: Milk thistle detoxifies and protects the liver. Give your child one dose, once a day, for the second month after a seizure.
  Weeks 9-12: Skullcap and oat straw are calmative herbs. Give your child one dose of either, once a day, for the third month after a seizure.
  Note: Skullcap should not be given to a child under six years old; oat straw should not be given to a child under four.

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