Chinese herbal medicine has been used for over 4,000 years to treat epilepsy. From a scientific literature review mechanisms of action have been shown to include modulation of gamma amino butyric acid, glutamate, glutamic acid, sodium and calcium ion channels, cell signaling pathways and apoptosis. The studies reviewed varied in scientific rigor. Commonly used herbs like Zheng Tai formula and Qian Ceng Ta (Huperzia) have been supported by historical anecdotal literature, but have not been evaluated in experimental studies. Nine randomized, controlled studies were found on the anti-seizure effects of Chai Hu Long Gu Mu Li Tang, Dian Xian Ning, Gou Teng, Shi Chang Pu, Su He Xiang Wan, Ling Zhi, Chai Hu Shu Gan Tang, Xi Feng, and Sang Ye (Morus). There are a few large prospective clinical studies in humans, but only a few case studies of the use of Chinese herbal medicines to control seizures in dogs. Prospective, randomized, blinded and controlled clinical studies with large case numbers from different centers are needed in order to recommend Chinese herbal medicine as evidence based veterinary medicine to control seizures in animals.