Integrating Alternative and Complementary Medicine in the Management of Epilepsy and Its Comorbidities in Low- and Middle-Income Settings

Abstract

This review examines the role of alternative and complementary medicine (ACM) in the management of epilepsy and its comorbidities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Given the limited access to conventional healthcare services in these regions, many patients turn to ACM practices, which include herbal remedies, spiritual healing, and dietary modifications. The review discusses the prevalence of ACM use among individuals with epilepsy, the types of therapies commonly employed, and the cultural factors influencing their adoption. It also highlights the potential benefits and risks associated with ACM, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers to understand and integrate these practices into comprehensive care plans. The authors advocate for further research to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ACM interventions and to develop guidelines for their integration into mainstream healthcare systems in LMICs.