The Exchange Breathing Method for Seizure Intervention: A Historical and Scientific Review of Epilepsy and Its Evolving Therapeutic Paradigms.

Abstract

Epilepsy is a complex and ancient neurological disorder affecting approximately 50 million individuals globally. Despite significant advancements in pharmacological treatments, surgical procedures, and neurostimulation techniques, a substantial subset of patients remains pharmacoresistant or experiences intolerable side effects, highlighting the need for novel, safe, and effective interventions. In this review, we examine a promising non-invasive technique known as the Exchange Breathing Method (EBM), developed through the observations of Gemma Herbertson, a British mother who discovered that exhaling gently into her son's nostrils could consistently interrupt ongoing seizures. The EBM has since gained anecdotal support from a growing international community reporting similar positive outcomes. This paper situates the EBM within the broader historical and clinical context of epilepsy treatment, tracing its evolution from ancient practices to modern therapeutic strategies. We explore the neurophysiological mechanisms that may underlie the EBM, particularly its interaction with autonomic and respiratory pathways implicated in seizure modulation. By integrating emerging grassroots data with current scientific knowledge, this review proposes a rationale for further empirical investigation into the EBM and its potential role in the personalized, emergency management of epilepsy.