fainting spells

Healing Wonders of Herbs

Guide to the Effective Use of Medicinal Plants

By Herminia de Guzman-Ladion,
R.N., A.R.P.T., P.T.R.P.

fainting spells    

    Fainting is a feeling of light-headedness and dizziness.

First Aid

    1. Lower the head between the knees, if the patient is sitting on a chair.
    2. Or, let him lie flat with the head lower than the feet. 

       This is done to draw blood to the head.
    3. Check pulse and respiration to see if breathing and pulse is strong.
        If the breathing is rapid and the pulse is strong, 

        get a paper or plastic bag big
        enough to cover the face. Hold the bag over the nose and mouth and
        let patient breathe in and out slowly in the bag for a few minutes.
        If he does not recover after 15-20 minutes, bring the patient
        to the nearest hospital or clinic for medical attention.
    4. If the patient is not breathing and his pulse cannot be felt, prepare
        to give cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Have someone
        call a doctor or get ready to transport the patient to the 

        nearest hospital.
        If someone is able to do CPR, give CPR while the
        patient is being transported to the hospital. 

        Stop only when the patient's
        pulse becomes palpable and he is already breathing.
    5. Check if the patient is diabetic or not. Ask the family.

Herbal Medications
    1. Atis leaves
       * If the patient is breathing and his pulse is strong, crush atis leaves.
       - Let him smell the aroma of the juice. Put it over the nose
         for him to smell. Let him smell until his dizziness or 

          fainting spell is out.

    2. Bayabas leaves
        * Crush bayabas leaves.
        - Let the patient smell the aroma, instructing him to take deep breaths.
          Put the crushed leaves over the nose for him to smell the
          essence of the leaves.