Understanding Migraines and How Ayurveda Can Help

 

Migraine, this word is heard quite often nowadays.

 

Many individuals suffer from the migraine worldwide. The outbreak of migraine has become very common in the recent era. Approximately, 15 per cent population is affected by migraine globally or we can say nearly one in seven people worldwide suffer from migraines, according to the World Health Organization. [1] 
 

Migraine is a neurological disorder causing chronic headache clubbed with nausea and vomiting. It is not just a headache but also a combination of intense throbbing and unbearable pain especially in one particular area of the head. It also causes extreme level of sensitivity to smell, light as well as sound. Migraine attack usually lasts from around 2 to 72 hours.
 

 

What brings on migraines?

 

Since migraines can be brought on by a number of things, such as stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, and particular foods and beverages, there is no definitive answer to this question. Recent studies, however, indicate that migraines might be brought on by a confluence of genetic and environmental factors. [2]
 

It might either be triggered due to the impact of environmental factors or genetic factors. Migraine occurs due to the swelling of blood vessels in the brain. Chemicals are released from the nerve fibres surrounding the blood vessels. Research theories also suggest that migraines can also be caused due to the abrupt triggering of central nervous system disorder and abnormalities in the brain chemicals and nerve pathways.

 

Symptoms of Migraine Headache 

 

Migraine progresses through four stages namely pro-drome, aura, headache and post-drome. The symptoms are characterised by the stage of migraine one is into.
 

Prodrome:
 

When an individual is in this stage of migraine, he can observe subtle changes that signify the onset of migraine, including:

1. Depression
2. Irritability
3. Hyperactivity
4. Food cravings
5. Constipation
6. Uncontrollable yawning
7. Neck stiffness
    

Aura:

The onset of aura can either be before migraine or during migraine. This stage is characterised by the following symptoms:

1. Visual disturbances such as seeing flash of light, several shapes, bright spots, etc
2. Pricking with pins and needles sensation in arms and legs
3. Movement (motor) disturbances
4. Language or speech problems (aphasia)

 

Aura is a stage that is optional in people. Every individual suffering from migraine does not necessarily go through this stage. The symptoms of aura usually begin gradually, gain momentum over several minutes and last for 20 to 60 minutes.
 

Attack:
 

Migraine if left untreated can last from 4 to 72 hours and an individual in this particular stage can experience the following symptoms:

1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Pain on either one side or both sides of the head
3. Pain with a pulsing or throbbing sensation
4. A feeling of sensitivity to sound, light and smell
5. Blurred or hazy vision
6. Lightheadedness, sometimes as severe as fainting

 

Postdrome:
 

This is the final stage after a migraine attack and can leave you feeling exhausted or drained out, sometimes even with a feeling of euphoria.
 

Risk factors with Migraine
 

There are always some factors, which put you at considerable risk of developing migraine. Let us discuss them in detail:

1. Family history: Migraine has been reportedly found genetically associated. It is yet to discover which gene is actually responsible for the same but 70 to 80 per cent migraine cases are found in people whose family members have already been victimised by the problem of migraine. So, if migraine is detected in someone from the family, others are certainly at risk of inheriting it at a later point of time.
2. Age: Half of the initial symptoms of migraine are observed in people before they turn 20. Most of the cases reported are in 25 to 55 years of age and the occurrence has been observed dropping significantly after menopause in women.
3. Hormonal changes: Migraine is predominantly found in boys as compared to girls before 20 but the trend is almost reverse after 20. Medical science holds the hormonal changes responsible for creating the menace. Oestrogen, the female hormone is greatly responsible for putting women at risk.
4. Environmental factors: Environmental factors are greatly responsible for putting a person at risk of developing migraine. If someone is sensitive to sound, light and smell, extreme indulgence into these factors can push him towards a migraine attack.

 

Although the symptoms of migraine are not at all mild, yet the symptoms of the attack stage of migraine can be termed as the most complicated of all. A migraine attack can be as severe as loss of consciousness. Migraine complications should be treated almost immediately otherwise it might bring fatal consequences to the individual.
 

How then can you control your headaches?

 

While both over-the-counter and prescription painkillers can reduce migraine pain, they can also have unfavourable side effects. Here Ayurveda plays a role. Ayurveda is a traditional medical system that has been practised for thousands of years to treat a wide range of illnesses, including migraines. [3]

 

Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on preserving bodily balance through diet, way of living adjustments, and herbal remedies. Ayurveda can lessen migraine symptoms and stop recurrences by reestablishing the body's natural balance. [4] 

 

Chronic Migraine treatment in Ayurveda
 

In Ayurveda, the two conditions known as Ardhaavabheda (unilateral pain) and Anantavaata (classical migraine) resemble the disorder. However, these disorders occur due three humors imbalance in the body, especially because of vitiated Vata humors.
 

 

Ayurvedic Treatment for Migraines

 

 

 

Numerous Ayurvedic treatments for migraines have been proven to be effective. These treatments consist of:

 

Long pepper root: It is an effective stimulant for both the digestive as well as respiratory systems. It has a rejuvenating effect internally. Therefore, long pepper has an indispensable role to play in the treatment of migraine. Most of the times, migraine has been found closely associated with digestive as well as respiratory disorders. This herb helps drastically to soothe the migraine pain by healing any disorder of digestive as well as respiratory system.

 

Peppermint : Peppermint is basically a combination of water mint and spearmint. This herb is a powerful remedy for migraine headaches. It has a calming and a soothing effect, which helps in reducing the intensity of migraine pain.

 

Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Ginger is widely known for its beneficial properties. It can act as a potential remedy for treating migraine headaches. Nausea and vomiting, the two commonly found symptoms in people with migraine can be treated with ginger. It also helps in relieving a person of an upset stomach. Studies have shown that ginger, a natural anti-inflammatory, can lessen migraine pain. [5] It can be taken as a supplement or as tea.

 

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): Valerian, mostly Valerian roots are used to ease the problem of migraine by developing a sedative and a relaxing effect on the patient. Migraine headaches greatly reduce because of its calming effect. It also helps in fetching good amount of sleep. So, a person suffering from a migraine headache can also have a peaceful sleep after taking this herb.

 

Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb has been shown to lessen stress and anxiety, which are two common migraine triggers. [6] It can be taken as a supplement or added to soups and smoothies.

 

Shankhapushpi: Research on this Ayurvedic herb shows that it can improve brain function and lower stress levels. [7] It can be taken as a supplement or combined with tea.

 

Triphala: Studies have shown that this blend of three herbs improves digestion and lowers inflammation. [8] You can take it as a supplement or mix it with water.

 

Treatment of Panchakarma for Migraines

 

The extensive Ayurvedic cleansing and detoxification procedure known as panchakarma aids in the body's purification and dosha balance. Numerous therapeutic methods, including massage, herbal enemas, and nasal cleansing, are used in this treatment (nasya). Panchakarma can aid in lowering migraine frequency and intensity by eliminating toxins and reestablishing bodily balance.

 

 

Indian Head Massage for the Treatment of Migraines
 

The head, neck, and shoulders are the primary targets of the traditional massage technique known as Indian head massage. This treatment is thought to ease stress and encourage relaxation, making it a successful migraine treatment. You can feel refreshed and reenergized after receiving an Indian head massage because of its gentle, rhythmic movements that can help to calm the nervous system and relieve headaches. Ayurvedic head massage is done with special ayurvedic oils useful in head disorders. The medicated oils have very soothing effects on the brain and helps in relaxing swollen blood vessels. 

 

Shirodhara to Relieve Headaches

 

Shirodhara is drugless therapy for migraine, headache and other brain and mental disorders. Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic procedure in which warm, medicinal oil is continuously poured onto the forehead. This treatment is effective for treating migraines because it is thought to balance the doshas and calm the mind. Warm oil is calming to the nerves and aids in stress and headache relief. 

 

 

 

Using Nasya to Treat Headaches

 

Nasya is an Ayurvedic method of nasal cleansing that involves putting herbal oils or powders inside the nostrils. This procedure is thought to balance the doshas and clear the sinuses, resulting in better breathing and fewer headaches. Nasya is a successful migraine treatment because it can ease stress and encourage relaxation. It directly works on brain and upper body parts, according to ayurvedic science.

 

Yoga for Migraine

 

Yoga has always been successful in proving its miraculous effects in curing enormous health problems. Its impact does not go unnoticed when it comes to curing migraine. All those people who have become tired of trying several medications to treat migraine and yet not benefitted, they may try these amazing Yoga poses for potential relief from the intolerable pain and prevent themselves from having migraine headaches in future. The beneficial yoga poses for migraine are Forward Virasana, Prasarita Padottanasana, Uttanasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Paschimottanasana, Janusirsasana, Urdhva Mukha Svanasana, Matsyendrasana, Setu Bandha, Savasana (corpse pose).
 

Ayurveda Lifestyle Changes for Migraine
 

Lifestyle is greatly responsible for triggering migraine. Slight changes in lifestyle can bring on fruitful effects for every individual and never do let their smile fade into oblivion. The great tips for management and prevention from migraine are as follows.

1. Be organised: Migraine is most likely to crop up when there is an imbalance in the daily schedule. So, it should be made sure that one is having his food at the right time and getting an adequate amount of sleep. Yoga should be included in the schedule and brought into practice on a regular basis.
2. Take care of the diet: Nutritionist experts claim that migraine can trigger from specific foods. Thus, identify the list of foodstuffs that are doing the potential harm and avoid them so as to avoid migraine.
3. Keep the body hydrated and nourished: Never let your body go dehydrated or skip meals. A bottle of water and light snacks to munch on should be kept handy with oneself to avoid migraine triggers.

 

How Pure Herbal Ayurved Clinic, in Melbourne Can Help?

 

At Pure Herbal Ayurved Clinic, we are firm believers in the efficacy of Ayurveda in managing illnesses like migraines. Our team of skilled Ayurvedic doctors and practitioners collaborate to develop individualised treatment plans for each of our clients.

 

In addition to herbal supplements, dietary and lifestyle changes, and massage therapy, we provide a variety of Ayurvedic remedies and treatments. Our mission is to empower our clients to take control of their migraine management by assisting them in achieving optimal health and wellness.

 

We invite you to get in touch with us if you experience migraines to find out more about how we can support you. Our team of professionals is available to address your concerns and give you the assistance you require to feel your best.

 

We recommend opting for professional help instead of self-medication. You can visit Pure Herbal Ayurved Clinic, Melbourne, Australia to seek help for ayurvedic treatments of migraine from an ayurvedic doctor Gurnam Saini.

 

Before drafting a plan to treat migraines, Gurnam Saini also says that the consultation with an ayurvedic doctor will take place first.

 

What to Expect during first appointment with an Ayurvedic Doctor

 

It is important to have an initial consultation with an Ayurveda doctor before developing an Ayurvedic treatment plan for migraines. The practitioner will evaluate your present state of health, medical history, and migraine-related symptoms during this appointment. They will then conduct a pulse diagnosis to determine your dosha imbalances and determine any underlying factors causing your migraines.

 

An individualised treatment plan will be developed for you by the Ayurvedic physician based on the findings of this assessment. To help with symptom relief and migraine prevention, this plan may combine Ayurvedic treatments like massage, herbal medications, and lifestyle modifications.

 

In order to achieve the best results and long-term relief from migraines, it is crucial to adhere to the prescribed treatment schedule and make the necessary lifestyle adjustments. The Ayurvedic practitioner can monitor your development and make any necessary modifications to your treatment plan during routine follow-up visits.

 

 

Disclaimer: The information on ayurvedic products and medicines on our website is for educational purposes only. One should not buy these products over the counter. These should only be taken after ayurvedic consultation with an ayurvedic practitioner. The uses and indications of these herbal products are based on Traditional Ayurvedic text books. These herbs should be supplemented with appropriate diet and lifestyle to get beneficial effects. Although there is a lot of research done on Ayurveda these days, yet these herbal products might not hold enough current research based evidence.