Understanding Ayurveda and Migraine
Let us commence with the basic knowledge regarding Migraine -
It is a kind of health issue that causes strong pain often only on one side of the head, accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. It worsens with physical activity, lights, sounds, or certain smells. In Ayurvedic philosophy, migraine is often attributed to an imbalance in the Vata and Pitta doshas of the body. The Ayurvedic treatment for migraine lies in restoring the harmony within these doshas. To address this, Ayurveda practices focus on grounding and calming techniques such as a Consistent daily routine, adequate sleep pattern, and regular meditation.
Pitta dosha plays a role in digestion and metabolism. Imbalance in Pitta dosha is linked to Inflammatory conditions. Ayurvedic approaches to Pitta-related migraines involve adopting cooling practices to soothe the internal heat. This practice includes Meditation, yoga, a diet rich in cooling food like cucumbers and mint, and avoiding spicy and heaty foods.
Ayurveda also hangs around the role of emotional well-being and stress management in migraine prevention. Therefore, encouraging practices like mindfulness to enhance the overall balance.
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is the oldest or traditional form of medicine system that has offered us a holistic approach for many years to treat various health conditions. Its main motive does not lie only in treating diseases but also to prevent them. Ayurveda works to delegate a balance between the body, mind, and spirit.
The theory of Ayurveda says that every living thing consists of five elements(Mahabhutas) i.e. air, water, space, fire, and earth.
Its combination determines an individual's type of body energy or dosha. These types include -
- Vata
- Pitta
- Kapha
Therefore, these three doshas must be in balance in order to support general well-being.
What distinguishes Ayurvedic Treatment from Western medicine for migraines?
Ayurvedic treatment and Western medical approach for migraine can differ in several ways. It reflects the distinct philosophies and methods each system has to offer to mankind.
One key difference between both the pathies is - the personalized nature of Ayurveda. Unlike Western Medicine’s philosophy of One-fits-all, Ayurvedic treatment for migraines considers the unique constitution of each individual. This includes Physical and mental health, as well as digestion, stress, and other basic environmental influences. Based on these factors, each patient is provided with a customized plan. On the contrary, Western Medicines are based on the concept of just suppressing the symptoms of illness, i.e., without addressing the root cause of the disease.
What kinds of Ayurvedic approaches are followed to treat migraines?
Basically, Ayurvedic treatment runs with the goal of managing all the root causes of the issue, This will help to provide relief from symptoms and prevent their recurrence. Here are some common Ayurvedic approaches followed to manage migraine Headaches.
Yoga for Migraine
Gentle Yoga asana, pranayama, and meditation techniques can easily manage mild migraine symptoms. These asanas are very helpful for the migraine patients as it helps with better flow of blood to the brain.
Yoga for Migraine Relief includes Asanas such as
- Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
- Padmasana (Lotus Pose)
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
- Balasana (Child’s pose)
- Svanasana (downward-facing dog pose)
Nasya Therapy for Migraine
Nasya treatment is a process of cleansing the nostrils and sinus region. During Nasya therapy for migraines, medicated oil are injected through the nasal passages. This way we can nourish nasal tissues, clear congestion, and clean the excess mucus. By following the process correctly, It will prove to be an effective treatment as it assists in better flow of blood circulation, reduced inflammation, and calm nervous system. Thus, calming the pain and providing relief.
Natural Herbs for Migraine
There are several such herbal medicines in Ayurveda that are idolized for their potential in managing migraines. They will not only provide relief from painful symptoms but will also heal the body from the inside. Some of the natural herbs for migraines are given below:
Feverfew - It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that might reduce the intensity of pain that strikes during migraine attack.
Brahmi - Want to give a break to your nervous system and let it relax? Brahmi will definitely help you with this. As by now we all know that stress can elevate our migraine attacks, this herb is known for its ability to calm the nervous system. This will help the patient very well in reducing stress-related migraines and improving focus.
Shatavari - It possesses amazing Pitta-balancing and soothing nervous system properties. Therefore, it inherits the potential to prevent migraine.
Ginger - It is a great Indian spice that can provide the patient relief from disturbing migraine pain. In addition to that, It will also effortlessly help you with nausea and vomiting.
Diet for Migraine
Ayurveda thinks that after a balance is restored in the body, it gives it a boost to fight against the diseases and heal itself. However, correct choice of food can help with this. So, it is important to avoid certain triggering foods and opt for the ones that may help restore balance and prevent migraine.
Some dietary tips for migraine prevention include foods -
- Mint
- Cilantro
- Cucumber
- Melon
- Coconut
- Ginger
- Turmeric
Shirodhara Helps in Migraine relief
Migraines are often due to an aggravation of the Pitta dosha, which governs heat and metabolism. With the process of Shirodhara i.e. a stream of hot oil pouring onto the forehead, the balance will be restored.
The therapy begins with a relaxing head and neck massage to release tension in the muscles. The continuous flow of oil onto the forehead stimulates the third eye or Ajna chakra, a crucial energy center in Ayurveda associated with intuition and mental clarity. This process induces relaxation, calming the nervous system and reducing stress, which are significant triggers for migraines.
5 Natural Remedies for Migraine Relief
While there are various medications available, some people may find relief from natural remedies only. Some of the basic Natural remedies for migraine relief is given below:
Adequate Sleep: Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns will poorly affect the mental health and, thus, contribute to migraines. So try to make and follow a consistent sleep schedule for at least 7-9 hours a day. Also, do not forget that quality sleep each night can bring immense relief, therefore, it is a must.
Hydration: Dehydration can be a migraine trigger as well. To rectify this common mistake that every human makes - start with adding Coconut water and Herbal teas to your diet.
Manage Stress: Stress is like a foe to human beings. It can contribute to many diseases and migraine is one of them. As a result, it's advised on a serious note to find a way for yourself that keeps you stress-free. You can also involve yourself in Ayurvedic ways of mind relaxation like deep breathing, yoga, and meditation. They all aid in mental relaxation and stress reduction.
Cold Compress: Surprisingly, cold compress can prove to be a great technique to find relief from migraines. Just apply a cold compress to the back of the neck or the forehead. It will assist in narrowing blood vessels and lower inflammation.
Aromatherapy: This therapy refers to the greatness of essential oils, for example, lavender and peppermint. These are very beneficial in relieving mental tension and migraine headache symptoms.
Is Ayurvedic Treatment for Migraine safe?
While treating any health problem, Ayurveda’s main motive is to focus on restoration of the balance in the body. By understanding each individual’s Prakriti in order to tailor a personalized treatment plan will help treat the disease at its root. This approach is a hallmark of Ayurveda. It ensures that the treatment properly aligns with the unique needs of patients.
Furthermore, Ayurvedic treatments frequently include the safest remedies such as herbal supplements, dietary advice, lifestyle changes, and therapeutic practices. It purifies the body from within without causing any other consequences to it.
Therefore, it is safe to say that Ayurvedic treatment for migraines is effective and best option when undertaken under proper guidance. So, Consult Today the experts of Dr. Sharda Ayurvedic Hospital
Takeaway
There is no doubt that Migraine headaches can cause unbearable pain. Although its mild symptoms can be cured easily by natural remedies, it is advised to take proper medical treatment if the complications seem rigid.
Choosing Ayurveda over conventional approaches provides a gentle yet effective alternative. Its principles empower individuals to proactively manage migraine and achieve overall well-being naturally.
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