What is Migraine? How we can treat it through ayurvedic medicines?

Migraine is a neurological condition characterized by intense, recurring headaches that can cause significant pain and discomfort. Migraines often present with other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. They can last for hours to days, and the pain can be so severe that it interferes with daily activities.

Symptoms of Migraine

• Severe, throbbing or pulsing headache (usually on one side of the head)
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
• Nausea and vomiting
• Visual disturbances (aura), such as seeing flashes of light or blind spots
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Triggers of Migraine

• Stress
• Certain foods (e.g., chocolate, caffeine, aged cheeses)
• Skipping meals or fasting
• Hormonal changes (e.g., during menstruation)
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Weather changes
• Strong smells or bright lights

Ayurvedic Approach to Migraine Treatment

Ayurveda views migraine as an imbalance in the body’s doshas (primarily Pitta and Vata). Treatments focus on balancing these doshas, reducing stress, and improving digestion. Here are some Ayurvedic remedies for migraine:

1. Shirodhara

• Benefit: Shirodhara involves pouring a continuous stream of warm medicated oil on the forehead, which helps calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and relieve headache symptoms.
• How it's done: This therapy is usually performed under the supervision of an Ayurvedic practitioner. It involves herbal oil (like sesame oil) infused with herbs like Brahmi or Shankhpushpi.

2. Nasya (Nasal Therapy)

• Benefit: In Ayurvedic practice, nasya therapy helps clear blocked sinuses, relieve stress, and calm Vata and Pitta doshas, which are often linked to migraines.
• How it's done: Herbal oils (such as Anu taila or Brahmi ghee) are administered through the nostrils. This process helps eliminate toxins and relieves migraine symptoms.

3. Herbs for Migraine Relief

Several Ayurvedic herbs are recommended to reduce the severity and frequency of migraines:

• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):

  • Benefit: Brahmi helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function, which can reduce migraine episodes.
  • How to use: Take Brahmi powder or capsules as per the dosage recommended by an Ayurvedic practitioner.

• Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis):

  • Benefit: This herb is known for its soothing effects on the nervous system and helps in reducing stress and anxiety.
  • How to use: Shankhpushpi powder or syrup can be consumed daily to support mental health and reduce migraines.

• Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi):

  • Benefit: Jatamansi has calming properties and is effective in treating headaches and sleep disorders.
  • How to use: Jatamansi powder or oil can be taken orally or applied to the scalp.

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

  • Benefit: Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress, a common trigger for migraines.
  • How to use: Take Ashwagandha capsules or powder daily to help manage stress and improve overall well-being.

4. Ayurvedic Formulations for Migraine

• Pathyadi Kashayam: An Ayurvedic decoction commonly prescribed for headache and migraine relief. It helps balance Pitta and reduce inflammation.
• Godanti Bhasma: A traditional Ayurvedic medicine made from gypsum, known to relieve headaches and migraines.
• Sitopaladi Churna: A herbal powder that helps reduce the intensity of migraines, particularly when caused by sinus issues or colds.

5. Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle for Migraine

• Avoid Pitta-aggravating foods: Spicy, sour, and salty foods can aggravate migraines. Avoid fried foods, fermented items, and caffeine.
• Cooling foods: Include foods that balance Pitta, such as cucumbers, leafy greens, coconut, and cooling spices like coriander and fennel.
• Regular meals: Skipping meals or fasting can trigger migraines. Eat regular, balanced meals.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration, which can trigger headaches.
• Yoga and meditation: Practicing yoga asanas such as Shavasana, Sukhasana, and breathing techniques like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) can help reduce stress and tension, thus preventing migraines.

6. Essential Oils

• Peppermint Oil: Applying diluted peppermint oil to the temples can help relieve migraine pain due to its cooling effect.
• Lavender Oil: Known for its calming properties, lavender oil can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.

Other Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips for Migraine

• Adequate Sleep: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Avoid staying up late or irregular sleep patterns, which can trigger migraines.
• Reduce Screen Time: Limit the time spent in front of screens to reduce eye strain and headaches.
• Stress Management: Practice mindfulness, deep breathing, or yoga to manage stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for migraines.

Conclusion

Ayurvedic treatment for migraines focuses on balancing the body’s doshas, reducing stress, and promoting overall well-being. Herbal remedies, lifestyle changes, and treatments like Shirodhara and Nasya can offer significant relief from migraine symptoms. For personalized treatment, it’s important to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner.