Encephalitis

Question

My younger brother was diagnosed with encephalitis last month, and we’re all still trying to understand what’s going on. It started with just fever and headaches, so we thought it was just a viral infection. But then he became really confused, almost like he wasn’t fully awake even when his eyes were open. He wasn’t responding properly when we talked to him, and after a day or two, he started having seizures. That’s when we rushed him to the hospital, and after a bunch of tests, they said it was encephalitis.

He was in the ICU for a few days, and now he’s back home, but he’s still not fully recovered. His memory is off – sometimes he forgets simple things, like what he just said a minute ago. He also gets really tired quickly and has random headaches. Doctors say it might take months for full recovery, but they don’t have much advice on how to help him heal faster.

I’ve been reading about Ayurveda and how it helps with neurological issues. Is there any Ayurvedic treatment that can support brain healing after encephalitis? Are there specific herbs or tonics that help with memory, brain function, or reducing inflammation? He’s eating normal food now, but should we be giving him certain foods to help with nerve repair?

Also, are there any Ayurvedic oils or therapies that help with post-encephalitis symptoms like fatigue and brain fog? He gets irritated easily, which wasn’t like him before. Could this be due to vata imbalance or something similar? We really want to do whatever we can to help him recover naturally. What’s the best Ayurvedic approach for encephalitis recovery?

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

I'm truly sorry to hear about your brother's condition, and it's understandable that you want to support his recovery through Ayurvedic principles. Given his situation after encephalitis, it's crucial to approach this carefully since he is still in a vulnerable state. First, it's important to assess his constitution and current dosha imbalance, which, as you suggested, points towards a potential vata imbalance. This tends to manifest as fatigue, irritability, and brain fog. You can support him through a vata-pacifying diet that includes warm, nourishing foods like soups, stews, and whole grains, such as rice and oats. Incorporating ghee into his meals will also be beneficial as it supports brain health and digestion.

For herbal support, you might consider Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), which is known for enhancing cognitive function and memory. You can give him around 250-500 mg of Brahmi daily, ideally with honey for better absorption. Ashwagandha can help manage stress and fatigue; start with a lower dose of 300 mg daily and adjust based on his tolerance. Additionally, integrating turmeric in cooking may help reduce inflammation.

Regarding oils, using a medicated oil like Bhringaraj oil for scalp massage can also have a calming effect and is traditionally believed to support brain health. Gently massage his scalp a few times a week, which may help with relaxation and improve circulation to the brain.

Encourage him to focus on light yoga or pranayama as he feels stronger, which can promote mental clarity and reduce fatigue. Guided meditations could also be calming for him, providing relief from irritability. During meals, focus on creating a peaceful atmosphere by being present without distractions to promote better digestion and absorption.

Lastly, ensure he stays well-hydrated and encourage regular sleep patterns, as these are crucial for his recovery. Always monitor him closely and consult with his healthcare providers as you integrate these Ayurvedic practices to ensure they align with his ongoing care.

Encephalitis - #18716

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