Ayurveda treatment of Migraine by prescribing illness specific medicinal herbs and dietary recommendations

Causes of Migraine as per principles of ayurveda:

Migraine, known as “Ardhavabhedaka” or “Anantavata” in Ayurveda, is a condition that arises due to various factors leading to an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta. Understanding the causes of migraine in Ayurveda is crucial for identifying triggers and implementing effective management strategies.

1. Dietary Factors (Ahara Dosha)

Relevance: According to Ayurveda, consuming foods that aggravate Pitta dosha, such as spicy, sour, and fermented foods, can trigger migraines. Irregular eating habits and skipping meals can also disrupt digestive fire (Agni), leading to the accumulation of toxins (Ama) and migraine attacks.

2. Emotional Stress (Manasa Dosha)

Relevance: Emotional stress, including feelings of anger, anxiety, and frustration, is considered a significant trigger for migraines in Ayurveda. Stress disturbs the balance of doshas and impairs the functioning of the nervous system, leading to increased susceptibility to migraine attacks.

3. Hormonal Imbalances (Dosha Sankramana)

Relevance: Fluctuations in hormonal levels, particularly estrogen, during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, are known to trigger migraines in Ayurveda. Hormonal imbalances disrupt the equilibrium of doshas and can lead to vata and pitta aggravation, precipitating migraine attacks.

4. Excessive Physical Exertion (Vyayama Atiyoga)

Relevance: Overexertion or excessive physical activity can aggravate Vata dosha and disrupt the balance of energies in the body, leading to migraine attacks in Ayurveda. Vigorous exercise, particularly in hot weather, can increase internal heat and trigger migraines.

5. Environmental Factors (Prakriti Sankramana)

Relevance: Exposure to extreme weather conditions, such as excessive heat or cold, strong winds, or high altitudes, can disturb the doshic balance and trigger migraines in Ayurveda. Environmental pollutants and allergens may also contribute to migraine attacks.

6. Sleep Disturbances (Nidra Dosha)

Relevance: Irregular sleeping patterns, inadequate sleep, or disrupted sleep cycles can disturb the balance of doshas and impair the functioning of the nervous system, increasing susceptibility to migraines in Ayurveda. Both excessive sleep and sleep deprivation can trigger migraine attacks.

7. Sensory Overload (Indriya Dosha)

Relevance: Excessive sensory stimulation, such as prolonged exposure to bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, or intense visual stimuli, can overwhelm the nervous system and trigger migraines in Ayurveda. Sensory overload disturbs the equilibrium of doshas and disrupts mental clarity.

8. Digestive Disorders (Agni Dosha)

Relevance: Impaired digestion and weak digestive fire (Agni) can lead to the accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the body, which can trigger migraines in Ayurveda. Poor dietary habits, overeating, or consuming incompatible foods can disrupt digestive function and exacerbate migraine attacks.

9. Genetic Predisposition (Vamsa Dosha)

Relevance: According to Ayurveda, individuals with a family history of migraines may have an inherent susceptibility to the condition due to genetic factors (Vamsa Dosha). Genetic predisposition can influence the doshic constitution and increase the likelihood of migraine attacks.

10. Hormonal Changes (Srotas Dosha)

Relevance: Changes in the flow of bodily channels (srotas), such as blood vessels or nerve pathways, due to hormonal fluctuations or imbalances can contribute to migraines in Ayurveda. Disrupted srotas can disrupt the circulation of vital energies and trigger migraine attacks.

11. Excessive Mental Exertion (Manasa Atiyoga)

Relevance: Overuse of the mind, such as prolonged mental exertion, intense concentration, or emotional strain, can aggravate Pitta dosha and disturb the balance of doshas, leading to migraine attacks in Ayurveda. Mental stress and overthinking can impair mental clarity and trigger migraines.

12. Hormonal Changes (Srotas Dosha)

Relevance: Changes in the flow of bodily channels (srotas), such as blood vessels or nerve pathways, due to hormonal fluctuations or imbalances can contribute to migraines in Ayurveda. Disrupted srotas can disrupt the circulation of vital energies and trigger migraine attacks.

13. Suppression of Natural Urges (Vega Dharana)

Relevance: Suppressing natural urges, such as urination, defecation, or sneezing, can disturb the balance of doshas and lead to the accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the body, triggering migraines in Ayurveda. It is essential to honor the body’s natural rhythms and urges to maintain health and well-being.

14. Excessive Intake of Stimulants (Utkrusta Aharat)

Relevance: Consuming excessive amounts of stimulants, such as caffeine, nicotine, or recreational drugs, can aggravate Pitta dosha and overstimulate the nervous system, leading to migraine attacks in Ayurveda. Stimulants disrupt the balance of doshas and impair mental clarity.

15. Dehydration (Kshudha Trisha)

Relevance: Dehydration due to inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating, or fluid loss from vomiting or diarrhea can disturb the balance of doshas and lead to migraine attacks in Ayurveda. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining the equilibrium of bodily fluids and preventing migraines.

16. Excessive Sun Exposure (Atapa Sankramana)

Relevance: Prolonged exposure to the sun or excessive heat can aggravate Pitta dosha and increase internal heat in the body, leading to migraine attacks in Ayurveda. It is essential to protect oneself from excessive sun exposure and maintain a cool environment to prevent migraines.

17. Hormonal Changes (Srotas Dosha)

Relevance: Changes in the flow of bodily channels (srotas), such as blood vessels or nerve pathways, due to hormonal fluctuations or imbalances can contribute to migraines in Ayurveda. Disrupted srotas can disrupt the circulation of vital energies and trigger migraine attacks.

18. Excessive Mental Exertion (Manasa Atiyoga)

Relevance: Overuse of the mind, such as prolonged mental exertion, intense concentration, or emotional strain, can aggravate Pitta dosha and disturb the balance of doshas, leading to migraine attacks in Ayurveda. Mental stress and overthinking can impair mental clarity and trigger migraines.

19. Seasonal Changes (Ritu Dosha)

Relevance: Seasonal changes, such as transitions between seasons or extreme weather conditions, can disturb the balance of doshas and increase susceptibility to migraines in Ayurveda. Adjusting lifestyle habits and dietary choices according to seasonal variations can help prevent migraines.

Illness specific medicinal herbs used in preparing ayurveda medications for treatment of Migraine:

Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine, offers a variety of medicinal herbs for managing migraine effectively. These herbs work by balancing the doshas, reducing inflammation, calming the nervous system, and improving circulation.

Below are few important medicinal herbs recommended for patients of migraine :

**1. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)

Relevance: Brahmi is a renowned herb in Ayurveda for its neuroprotective properties. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for migraines. Brahmi also improves cognitive function and enhances cerebral blood flow.

Mode of Action: Brahmi contains active compounds called bacosides that modulate the neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine. It also acts as an adaptogen, helping the body cope with stress and reducing inflammation in the nervous system.

2. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Relevance: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb known for its calming and rejuvenating effects on the nervous system. It helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and tension, which are common triggers for migraines.

Mode of Action: Ashwagandha contains bioactive compounds like withanolides and withaferin A, which modulate the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the brain and blood vessels.

3. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)

Relevance: Guduchi, also known as Giloy, is a potent immunomodulatory herb in Ayurveda. It helps strengthen the immune system and reduces inflammation, making it beneficial for migraine management.

Mode of Action: Guduchi contains alkaloids, glycosides, and polysaccharides that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps regulate the immune response and reduces oxidative stress in the body, thereby alleviating migraine symptoms.

4. Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis)

Relevance: Shankhpushpi is a brain tonic herb used in Ayurveda to improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration. It helps reduce mental stress and fatigue, which can trigger migraines.

Mode of Action: Shankhpushpi contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides that enhance neurotransmitter activity in the brain, such as acetylcholine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It promotes relaxation, relieves anxiety, and improves cerebral blood flow, thereby reducing migraine frequency and severity.

5. Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)

Relevance: Jatamansi is a calming and grounding herb that helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and insomnia, all of which can contribute to migraines. It also has neuroprotective properties that support overall brain health.

Mode of Action: Jatamansi contains active compounds like jatamansone and nardostachone that have anxiolytic and sedative effects on the nervous system. It helps regulate neurotransmitter activity, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation to the brain, thereby preventing migraine attacks.

6. Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina)

Relevance: Sarpagandha, also known as Indian snakeroot, is used in Ayurveda to manage hypertension, anxiety, and insomnia, which are common triggers for migraines. It has calming and hypotensive properties that help alleviate migraine symptoms.

Mode of Action: Sarpagandha contains reserpine, a bioactive alkaloid that acts as a central nervous system depressant. It inhibits the release of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and serotonin, leading to vasodilation and relaxation of blood vessels, thereby reducing migraine pain.

7. Dashmool (Ten Roots Blend)

Relevance: Dashmool is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation containing ten roots that have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative properties. It is used to alleviate pain, inflammation, and muscle tension associated with migraines.

Mode of Action: Dashmool contains a combination of roots such as Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Gokshura, which collectively reduce pain and inflammation in the body. It also calms the nervous system, promotes relaxation, and improves blood circulation, thereby providing relief from migraines.

8. Tagar (Valeriana wallichii)

Relevance: Tagar is a calming herb used in Ayurveda to treat insomnia, anxiety, and nervous disorders. It helps relax the mind and body, reduce stress, and promote restful sleep, all of which are beneficial for migraine management.

Mode of Action: Tagar contains valepotriates, valerenic acid, and other bioactive compounds that have sedative and anxiolytic effects on the nervous system. It increases the levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and sleep, thereby reducing migraine frequency and severity.

9. Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)

Relevance: Tulsi, or Holy Basil, is a revered herb in Ayurveda known for its adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It helps reduce stress, inflammation, and oxidative stress, all of which can trigger migraines.

Mode of Action: Tulsi contains eugenol, rosmarinic acid, and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. It also modulates the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, promoting relaxation and reducing migraine symptoms.

10. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)

Relevance: Shatavari is a rejuvenating herb used in Ayurveda to balance Vata and Pitta doshas, reduce inflammation, and support the nervous system. It helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and hormonal imbalances that can trigger migraines.

Mode of Action: Shatavari contains saponins, flavonoids, and steroidal saponins that have adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps regulate hormone levels, reduce inflammation in the brain and blood vessels, and promote relaxation, thereby preventing migraine attacks.

11. Guggul (Commiphora wightii)

Relevance: Guggul is a resinous herb used in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. It helps reduce pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with migraines.

Mode of Action: Guggul contains guggulsterones, boswellic acids, and other bioactive compounds that inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. It also scavenges free radicals, reduces oxidative stress, and improves blood circulation to the brain, thereby alleviating migraine symptoms.

12. Triphala (Three Fruits Blend)

Relevance: Triphala is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation consisting of three fruits: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with migraines.

Over the counter ayurveda medications prescribed for Migraine:

Ayurveda offers various herbal formulations and medicines to manage migraine effectively. These medications work by balancing the doshas, reducing inflammation, calming the nervous system, and improving overall well-being.

Here are few of important ayurveda medications recommended in ayurveda for patients of migraine :

**1. Maharasnadi Kwath

Relevance: Maharasnadi Kwath is a classical Ayurvedic formulation used for alleviating pain and inflammation associated with migraine. It helps balance Vata dosha and reduces nerve irritation.

Mode of Action: Maharasnadi Kwath contains herbs like Dashmool, Guggulu, and Rasna, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It reduces inflammation in the nervous system, improves blood circulation, and relieves migraine pain.

**2. Migrakot Tablet

Relevance: Migrakot Tablet is specifically formulated for the management of migraines. It helps reduce headache intensity, frequency, and duration by calming the nervous system and balancing Pitta dosha.

Mode of Action: Migrakot Tablet contains herbs like Brahmi, Shankhpushpi, and Jatamansi, which have neuroprotective and anxiolytic properties. It regulates neurotransmitter activity, reduces stress and anxiety, and prevents migraine attacks.

**3. Pathyadi Kwath

Relevance: Pathyadi Kwath is an Ayurvedic decoction used to relieve migraine headaches and associated symptoms. It helps balance Pitta dosha and improves digestion, which is essential for preventing migraine attacks.

Mode of Action: Pathyadi Kwath contains herbs like Patha, Kutki, and Musta, which have anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It reduces inflammation in the brain and blood vessels, improves digestion, and prevents migraine triggers.

**4. Sootshekhar Ras

Relevance: Sootshekhar Ras is a classical Ayurvedic medicine used for the management of migraines with acidity and digestive disturbances. It helps balance Pitta dosha and soothes the digestive system.

Mode of Action: Sootshekhar Ras contains ingredients like Shuddha Parad, Shuddha Gandhak, and Tankan Bhasma, which have antacid and digestive properties. It neutralizes excess stomach acid, reduces acidity, and alleviates migraine symptoms.

**5. Nirgundi Taila

Relevance: Nirgundi Taila is an herbal oil used for external application to relieve migraine pain and associated symptoms. It helps reduce inflammation, muscle tension, and nerve irritation.

Mode of Action: Nirgundi Taila contains Nirgundi (Vitex negundo), which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It penetrates deep into the tissues, reduces swelling and pain, and provides relief from migraine headaches.

**6. Brahmi Ghrita

Relevance: Brahmi Ghrita is a medicated ghee formulation used for enhancing cognitive function and reducing stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for migraines.

Mode of Action: Brahmi Ghrita contains Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and other herbs that nourish the brain, improve neurotransmitter function, and reduce oxidative stress. It calms the nervous system, enhances mental clarity, and prevents migraine attacks.

**7. Godanti Bhasma

Relevance: Godanti Bhasma is a mineral-based Ayurvedic medicine used for the management of migraines with associated symptoms like fever and inflammation. It has cooling and analgesic properties.

Mode of Action: Godanti Bhasma contains processed gypsum, which has antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces fever, inflammation in the brain, and provides relief from migraine pain.

**8. Sarpagandha Ghan Vati

Relevance: Sarpagandha Ghan Vati is a classical Ayurvedic medicine used for managing hypertension, anxiety, and migraines. It helps calm the nervous system and regulate blood pressure.

Mode of Action: Sarpagandha Ghan Vati contains Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina), which has hypotensive and sedative properties. It reduces stress, relaxes blood vessels, and prevents migraine attacks triggered by hypertension.

**9. Kamdudha Ras

Relevance: Kamdudha Ras is an Ayurvedic medicine used for the management of migraines with acidity and burning sensation in the stomach. It helps balance Pitta dosha and improve digestion.

Mode of Action: Kamdudha Ras contains ingredients like Shuddha Parada, Shuddha Gandhaka, and Mukta Shukti Bhasma, which have antacid and cooling properties. It neutralizes excess stomach acid, reduces acidity, and provides relief from migraine symptoms.

**10. Pittashekhar Rasa

Relevance: Pittashekhar Rasa is a classical Ayurvedic medicine used for managing migraines with acidity, nausea, and vomiting. It helps balance Pitta dosha and soothes the digestive system.

Mode of Action: Pittashekhar Rasa contains ingredients like Shuddha Parada, Shuddha Gandhaka, and Tankan Bhasma, which have antacid and digestive properties. It neutralizes excess stomach acid, reduces nausea, and provides relief from migraine symptoms.

**11. Praval Pishti

Relevance: Praval Pishti is a coral-derived Ayurvedic medicine used for managing migraines with acidity and fever. It has cooling and antipyretic properties.

Mode of Action: Praval Pishti contains processed coral powder, which has cooling and alkaline properties. It neutralizes excess stomach acid, reduces fever, and provides relief from migraine symptoms.

**12. Sutshekhar Ras

Relevance: Sutshekhar Ras is an Ayurvedic medicine used for managing migraines with acidity, nausea, and vomiting. It helps balance Pitta dosha and soothes the digestive system.

Mode of Action: Sutshekhar Ras contains ingredients like Shuddha Parada, Shuddha Gandhaka, and Tankan Bhasma, which have antacid and digestive properties. It neutralizes excess stomach acid, reduces nausea, and provides relief from migraine symptoms.

**13. Arogyavardhini Vati

Relevance: Arogyavardhini Vati is a classical Ayurvedic medicine used for managing migraines with liver dysfunction and digestive disturbances. It helps improve liver function and detoxification.

Mode of Action: Arogyavardhini Vati contains herbs like Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki, which improve liver function and enhance detoxification. It reduces inflammation in the liver, balances Pitta dosha, and prevents migraine attacks.

**14. Swarna Bhasma

Relevance: Swarna Bhasma is a gold-based Ayurvedic medicine used for managing migraines with neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness. It helps strengthen the nervous system and improve cognitive function.

Mode of Action: Swarna Bhasma contains processed gold particles, which have neuroprotective and rejuvenating properties. It enhances neurotransmitter activity, improves blood circulation to the brain, and prevents migraine attacks.

Ayurveda treatment of Migraine at Nakra Ayurveda Hospitals and Herbals Pvt Ltd

Types of Treatment for Migraine in Ayurveda

Migraine, known as “Ardhavabhedaka” or “Anantavata” in Ayurveda, is managed through a holistic approach that focuses on balancing the doshas, improving digestion, calming the nervous system, and preventing triggers. Ayurvedic treatments for migraine include various therapies, herbal remedies, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes. Here are the types of treatment in detail:

**1. Shamana Chikitsa (Palliative Treatment)

Relevance: Shamana Chikitsa aims to alleviate symptoms and provide relief from acute migraine attacks. It includes herbal medicines, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes to balance the doshas and reduce pain and discomfort.

Treatment Modalities:

• Herbal Medicines: Ayurvedic formulations like Migrakot Tablet, Sootshekhar Ras, and Godanti Bhasma are prescribed to reduce headache intensity, frequency, and duration.
• Dietary Modifications: Avoiding trigger foods like processed foods, caffeine, alcohol, and dairy products can help prevent migraine attacks. Consuming cooling and Pitta-balancing foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is recommended.
• Lifestyle Changes: Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help manage migraine symptoms. Adequate sleep, regular exercise, and maintaining a consistent daily routine are also beneficial.

**2. Shodhana Chikitsa (Detoxification Therapy)

Relevance: Shodhana Chikitsa involves detoxifying the body to eliminate toxins (Ama) and restore doshic balance. It helps remove accumulated toxins from the tissues and channels, which can contribute to migraine attacks.

Treatment Modalities:

• Panchakarma: Ayurvedic detoxification therapies like Vamana (therapeutic vomiting), Virechana (purgation), and Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils) are recommended to cleanse the body and promote the elimination of toxins.
• Basti (Medicated Enema): Basti therapy involves the administration of herbal decoctions and oils through the rectum to remove accumulated toxins from the colon and balance the doshas. It helps alleviate digestive disturbances and prevent migraine triggers.

**3. Nidana Parivarjana (Avoidance of Causative Factors)

Relevance: Nidana Parivarjana focuses on identifying and avoiding triggers that contribute to migraine attacks. By eliminating causative factors from the diet and lifestyle, the frequency and severity of migraines can be reduced.

Treatment Modalities:

• Trigger Identification: Keeping a migraine diary to track potential triggers such as stress, hormonal changes, dietary factors, and environmental stimuli can help identify patterns and avoid triggers.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Making changes such as maintaining regular sleep patterns, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and avoiding excessive physical or mental exertion can help prevent migraine attacks.
• Dietary Guidelines: Following a Pitta-pacifying diet by avoiding spicy, oily, fermented, and processed foods can help prevent aggravation of Pitta dosha, which is often associated with migraines.

**4. Rasayana Chikitsa (Rejuvenation Therapy)

Relevance: Rasayana Chikitsa involves rejuvenating the body and strengthening the immune system to improve overall health and well-being. It helps enhance vitality, reduce stress, and prevent the recurrence of migraine attacks.

Treatment Modalities:

• Rasayana Formulations: Ayurvedic preparations like Brahmi Ghrita, Chyawanprash, and Ashwagandha Churna are used to rejuvenate the body, improve cognitive function, and reduce stress and anxiety.
• Adaptogenic Herbs: Herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Guduchi are considered adaptogens that help the body adapt to stress, enhance resilience, and prevent migraine attacks.
• Lifestyle Recommendations: Practicing a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, adequate rest, and stress management techniques is essential for maintaining overall well-being and preventing migraines.

**5. Satvavajaya Chikitsa (Counseling and Psychotherapy)

Relevance: Satvavajaya Chikitsa focuses on addressing psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and emotional disturbances that can trigger or exacerbate migraine attacks. Counseling and psychotherapy techniques are used to promote mental well-being and reduce migraine symptoms.

Treatment Modalities:

• Counseling: One-on-one counseling sessions with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or counselor can help individuals explore and address underlying emotional issues, stressors, and coping mechanisms related to migraines.
• Relaxation Techniques: Teaching relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery can help individuals manage stress, reduce anxiety, and prevent migraine attacks.
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and stress management are used to identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to migraine symptoms.

**6. Dinacharya and Ritucharya (Daily and Seasonal Regimens)

Relevance: Dinacharya and Ritucharya involve following daily and seasonal routines that align with the natural rhythms of the body and the changing seasons. By adopting healthy daily habits and seasonal practices, doshic balance can be maintained, and the risk of migraines reduced.

Treatment Modalities:

• Daily Routine (Dinacharya): Following a daily routine that includes waking up early, practicing self-care rituals like oil massage (Abhyanga), and maintaining regular mealtimes and bedtime routines can help balance the doshas and prevent migraine attacks.
• Seasonal Regimen (Ritucharya): Adapting lifestyle habits, dietary choices, and Ayurvedic therapies according to the changing seasons helps prevent seasonal imbalances and reduce susceptibility to migraines triggered by seasonal factors like weather changes and allergens.

Ayurvedic treatment for migraines focuses on addressing the root cause of the condition, restoring balance to the doshas, and promoting overall health and well-being. By combining various therapeutic modalities, herbal remedies, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes, individuals can effectively manage migraines and prevent their recurrence. It is essential to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment recommendations based on individual constitution, symptoms, and health history.