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.
