Best Ayurvedic tips for effective management of migraine

Migraine is a very common neurological condition in which there is a persisting headache that can range from mild to severe. People may commonly experience a pulsating sensation on one side of the head along with throbbing pain which usually lasts for a day or even more.

It can hit anybody irrespective of age. Since the trigger is usually stress and anxiety, the symptoms can be quite annoying. For most people, it affects the daily well-being and proper functioning of the human body. One may experience stinging pain in the head and facial region, nausea, visual disturbances, intense sensitivity to light, sound, touch, and smell. The pain if persists for a longer duration may radiate to the neck and shoulder. These symptoms can be due to stress, anxiety, panic attacks, seasonal allergies, and hormonal issues.   

As per Ayurveda, migraine is referred to as Ardhavabedhaka which occurs due to an imbalance of Vata Dosha and Kapha Dosha.  This harms the nervous system, hampering the focus, memory, and concentration of the affected person. The main aim of Ayurvedic treatment for migraine is to stabilize these Doshas and use natural methods which promote the Doshic balance.

Following are some simple and effective Ayurvedic remedies that work wonders in managing symptoms of migraine and minimizing unbearable pain and discomfort.

Panchakarma therapy

This wholesome Ayurvedic treatment purifies the body by detoxifying it. This therapy contributes fabulously in removing the toxins from the body

• Nasya Karma: This method involves pouring medicated oil to the nostrils which in turn is beneficial to attain relief from the migraine.
• Shirodhara: In this technique, the Ayurvedic oil is poured on the scalp to attain comfort.
• Shiro Lepa: On the head of the individual, the herbal paste is applied which relieves from the migraine pounding headache.

Ayurvedic herb

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and it reduces the symptoms of migraine. So, either sip ginger tea or add fresh ginger to your food to relieve yourself. 

Ayurvedic Diet

A proper diet is useful to the body in many ways. So, to achieve a fit body one must follow a good and healthy diet plan. The following things must be kept in mind to ensure healthy living.

• Fresh fruits and vegetables should be consumed. Start adding organic food products to your diet.
• Keep yourself hydrated. It is essential to drink 6 – 8 glasses of water daily as it supplies necessary fluids to cells and tissues present in the body. Infusing warm water with lemon and honey detoxifies the system and promotes overall health.
•  Avoid processed foods, canned foods, carbonated liquids, and excessive dietary products in your daily regime.

Pathyadi

It is a liquid supplement consisting of multiple herbs which is created by heating or boiling the plants to yield a concentrated liquid. The decoction includes herbs like turmeric, neem, amla, myrobalan, beleric which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Yoga

Yoga calms the mind and body by easing stress and anxiety and it also reduces migraine pain. Some of the Asanas which can be performed to maintain the intensity of pain are:

• Balasana
• Adho Mukha Svanasana
• Setu Bandha Sarvangasana

Meditation

Practicing meditation aids in focusing positive thoughts and balances the mind. It helps you think more clearly and changes the way a person responds to stress. 

Deep breathing

Deep breathing involves breathing from the belly and not from the chest. This technique nourishes the body with more oxygen which creates a calming effect.

Acupuncture

This technique is observed to reduce the frequency of headaches in migraine attacks and is beneficial in proving ease from the pain.  

Regular exercise

Studies suggest that regular exercise minimizes the prevalence of migraine attacks and may also help in managing the symptoms. As exercising also elevates the mood it is beneficial to manage stress and anxiety which are common triggers of migraine.

Mild exercises which have a low impact on the body can reward you effectively. Exercises such as brisk walking and jogging will release endorphins and hence bring a positive feel to the body.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle changes are said to be done to maintain the triggers of the migraine.

• Avoid exposure to the mid-day sun and cold winds.
• Follow a regular sleep schedule and at least sleep for 8 hours.
• Suppressing natural urges like sneezing, moving the bowels, and urinating should be avoided.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
• Make a routine to put 2-3 drops of cow’s ghee or almond oil in both the nostrils in the morning and evening.

Massaging and warm compress

Massaging the temples with oil intends to enhance the proper blood circulation and with the help of a wet warm towel placed on the head region the nerves are further relaxed which, therefore, relaxes the brain and hence relives from pain.

These Ayurvedic tips and remedies are proven to give effective and fruitful results. So, to calm the head from the debilitating pain and the symptoms of migraine one can apply these easy-to-do tips in their daily routine to manage the triggers of the migraine attacks.