Anti-Epileptic Activity (Drug Induced) of Hingu Niryasa – An Experimental Study

Apasmara has been described as a disorder involving loss of consciousness, abnormal movements, and derangement of memory and intellect. It can be correlated to epilepsy in modern medicine which is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures due to neuronal hyper excitability. Limitations and adverse effects of long-term antiepileptic drug therapy have led to renewed interest in Ayurvedic drugs like Hingu Niryasa, which possesses Vata-shamaka properties. An experimental study was conducted using the Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) - induced seizure model. Albino rats were divided into Control, Standard, and Test groups. Drugs were administered orally, followed by PTZ injection. Seizure parameters such as onset of Straub’s tail, onset of Jerks, number of minor and major convulsions were recorded and statistically analysed. Hingu Niryasa significantly delayed the onset of Straub’s tail compared with the Control group and significantly reduced number of major convulsions, confirming antiepileptic activity of Hingu Niryasa. The reduction in seizures in the test drug (Hingu Niryasa) suggests effective suppression of PTZ-induced neuronal hyper excitability, possibly through modulation of inhibitory neurotransmission. From an Ayurvedic standpoint, the drug’s Vata-shamana action help stabilize Manasa doshas, supporting its role in Apasmara management. Hingu Niryasa (Test drug) demonstrated significant anticonvulsant activity which was superior to control group and comparable to standard.