Headaches are the most common health issue that disrupts your daily life. It can be quite annoying, unbearable, and depressing if not treated on time.
What is migraine in ancient Ayurveda?
A migraine headache is a severe neurological disorder with symptoms like numbness, nausea, sensitivity to light, and vomiting. It arises due to the extreme stimulation of blood vessels. And this migraine attack lasts from 4 hours to 3 days, causing a tingling sensation. Treating and getting rid of this headache permanently with conventional medicine is dreadful. But Ayurveda heals this pain effectively with simple solutions.
In Ayurveda, It is referred to as a Suryavartha soola, where Surya indicates the sun and Avartha means the onset of the ailment, causing the pain to worsen in the presence of light and heat. However, depending on the person’s body, the intensity of migraine headaches may vary.
Migraine headache reasons
Every individual has three doshas, namely Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, to sustain exceptional health. You might feel ill if your doshas are out of harmony. It is believed that an imbalance of Vata and Kapha causes migraines. Ayurveda uses all-encompassing therapies to balance these doshas.
Migraine Symptoms
- Throbbing pain on one side of the face
- Nausea
- Depression
- Vomiting sensation
- Speaking difficulty
- Increased sensitivity to light and sound
- Tingling in the arms, legs, or face
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
- Severe thirst
- Lack of sleep
Migraine headache triggers
- Excessive stress
- Mood swings
- Eye strain using computers and television
- Exposure to environmental pollution and toxins
- Frustration
- Hormonal imbalance
- Skipping meals
Migraine in Ayurveda
According to ancient Ayurvedic textbooks, “Ardhavabedhaka,” or pain in half the head, is the most characteristic sign of migraines.
Stabbing pain in the Manya (cervical region), Bhru (eyebrows), Karna (ears), Akshi (eyes), and Lalata (frontal head) regions are additional symptoms. Additionally, those who have this chronic condition also deal with severe discomfort from Chakshu-Virajyata (eye redness), Shankhamoola Darana (tearing pain in the temporal areas), and Bhrama (vertigo/dizziness).
Migraine treatments by Ayurveda : In Ayurveda, the treatment is customized for each patient’s specific disease situation rather than the disease itself. Treatments for purification, or panchakarma, are strongly advised for migraine. This is carried out following a thorough Ayurvedic consultation with the Ayurvedic physician. The doctor will customize your treatment, which may include herbs, therapies, and a diet and lifestyle plan. Here is a list of treatments for migraine in Ayurveda. Panchakarma mainly treats digestive strength, doshic imbalances, improves metabolism, enhances overall health, and many others.
Nasya Theraphy : Nasya is one of the panchakarma procedures mentioned in Ayurvedic classes that involves the administration of herbal oils or powders through the nasal passages. This helps alleviate Vata imbalances in the head region, reducing migraine intensity and frequency.
Shirolepa and Shiro Dhara
Shirolepa massage refers to the application of herbal pastes or poultices to the scalp and head region. This treatment is thought to have a calming and nourishing effect on the nervous system, promote hair health, and reduce mental fatigue. The herbal pastes used in Shirolepa are often made from a combination of various medicinal herbs, oils, and other natural ingredients. The paste is applied to the head, left to dry, and then gently washed off.
Shirodhara is a deeply relaxing and therapeutic Ayurvedic massage treatment that involves a continuous stream of warm herbal oil poured onto the forehead in a rhythmic and consistent manner. The warm oil gently flows over the forehead and scalp, aiming to balance the mind, calm the nervous system, and promote a sense of tranquility and mental relaxation. Shirodhara is often used to reduce stress, elevate Vata dosha, and relax your eyes.
It is very important to choose the right medicine for the right procedure to attain results.
Oil pulling: Oil pulling (Kavala Graha) is another alternative treatment for reducing the intense pain of migraines. It has a potent detoxifying action that helps alleviate diseases like migraines and others caused by toxic poisons. Whiter teeth are an additional advantage of Kavala Graha therapy!
Migraine treatment with yoga: Yoga asanas offer a holistic approach to migraine treatment. Begin with deep, controlled breathing to relax the nervous system. Incorporate gentle neck and shoulder stretches to relieve tension. Regular practice enhances flexibility, reduces muscle tension, and fosters overall well-being. However, consult a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, particularly if dealing with severe pain, to ensure a safe and effective approach tailored to individual needs.
Migraine treatment with Ayurvedic medicines
Anu Taila is a commonly used herbal oil for treating headaches and stiffness of the neck. It also gives relief from symptoms of ailments in the neck, ears, shoulders, eyes, nose, and skin.
Pathyakshadhatryadi Kashaya is useful in the management of various headaches like migraines, sinusitis, tension headaches, etc.
The Ayurvedic approach to treating migraines offers a holistic and personalized solution that addresses not just the symptoms but also the underlying imbalances causing the condition. By focusing on balancing the doshas, adopting a migraine-friendly diet, using herbal remedies, practicing relaxation techniques, and embracing a healthy lifestyle, individuals can find relief from it and improve their overall well-being. However, it’s important to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you are already undergoing medical treatment . With patience and commitment, the Ayurvedic approach can provide a path to lasting relief and a better quality of life for sufferers.