Migrane - Treating it Ayurveda way

Migrane - Treating it Ayurveda way

Migraine is a debilitating disease characterised by moderate to severe headache which is throbbing in nature, often associated with nausea and localised to one side of the head. The actual cause or pathogenesis of this disease is not yet known. Some believe it is due to some inflammatory reactions taking place in the brain which causes the blood vessels and regions of brain to swell creating pressure on the neighbouring nerves and giving rise to pain. This inflammatory reactions also stimulates the pain centers of the brain giving rise to the excruciating and debilitating pain characteristics of this condition. It is still not clear what triggers this inflammatory reaction. Some of the factors might be

• Irregularity in sleep
• Hunger ,  fasting
• Hot sun
• Hormonal stimulation especially in women.
• Adverse stimulation of the senses like bright light, loud noise, strong smell
• Excess cold
• Some foods like alcohol, coffee, spices etc.

Symptoms:

• Headache, mostly unilateral, moderate to severe, throbbing in nature.
• Nausea, loss of appetite
• Dizziness and visual disturbances
• Sensitivity to light, sound and smell

Treatment in modern medicine is basically administration of analgesics according to the requirment of the patient and the condition. It is supplemented with antiemetics and other symptoms are treated symptomatically. Although a variety of pain relievers are available to treat a migraine, it only suppresses the pain. The problem persists in the body and prolonged use of painkillers have been known to cause severe side effects.

Migraine – In Ayurveda

Like any other disease, migraine is also caused by any of the three bioregulating principles  of the body namely Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The causative principle can be identified  by the symptom exhibited.  Predominantly it is the Pitta which affects the channels of the mind and causes this disease along with the undigested  toxins  called aama.

Hence in Ayurveda, treatment is based on regulating the digestive system with pacification of the Pitta dosha. Medicines to improve the strength of the nervous system is also found to be effective. Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapies are very effective in treating the disease. Special treatments like Shirodhara and Nasya are recommended in this condition. Shiro pichu can also be resorted to in this condition. These treatments complimented with internal medicines gives excellent relief from this condition.

Diet and Lifestyle:

Identifying the triggering factor is an important step towards an effective management of the disease. Right diet in this case is the one which pacifies Pitta dosha. One must avoid spicy, hot, and sour foods. A cooling diet is beneficial as a curative and preventive measure. Fresh fruits and vegetables and a diet with ghee and butter is indicated.

Avoiding exposure to hot sun, exposure to moon light, soothing head massage, meditation, regular practice of Yoga and pranayama etc are very effective in curing migraine.