Butea monosperma, commonly known as "flame of the forest," has been used in traditional Ayurvedic and folk medicine for a variety of purposes, including as a remedy for epilepsy. Historical texts and traditional healers have employed different parts of the plant (such as seeds and flowers) for their purported anticonvulsant properties. The rationale for its use in epilepsy is largely based on traditional knowledge rather than robust scientific validation.

Contemporary scientific research on Butea monosperma in the context of epilepsy is limited. A few preclinical studies in animal models suggest that certain extracts of the plant may have CNS depressant and mild anticonvulsant effects, potentially due to flavonoids, saponins, or other phytoconstituents. However, these findings are preliminary, and there is a lack of well-designed clinical trials in humans to confirm efficacy and safety for epilepsy. The current weight of evidence is insufficient to recommend its use for epilepsy in modern clinical practice.

In summary, the use of Butea monosperma for epilepsy is primarily justified by traditional medicine systems and limited preclinical research, but there is a clear lack of rigorous scientific validation.