A review of medicinal plants showing anticonvulsant activity

The term epilepsy is collectively designated for a group of chronic central nervous system disorders characterized by spontaneous occurrence of seizures generally associated with the loss of consciousness and body movements (convulsions). The disease has its origin from an early age. Anticonvulsant drugs are used to control the convulsions by inhibiting the discharge and then producing hypnosis. Various synthetic drugs, viz. sodium diphenyl hydantoin (Dialtin) barbiturates, pyrimidon, succinamides, diazepines etc. are used for the treatment. In this paper various medicinal plants and plant components, which are being used as anticonvulsant and antiepileptic, are discussed.