Migraine is one of the common problems encountered in today’s world. The pressing stress added to the unhealthy choice of food and lifestyle has resulted in a surge. According to studies, chronic migraine affects 3% of the population and it is three times more common in women than men. Fortunately, migraines are manageable but many times they go undiagnosed because people don’t take a headache seriously. In this blog, I will be sharing proven home remedies for migraine.
Studies reveal that migraine is a genetic disorder. However, the environment, lifestyle, and diet too can play a role. Alcohol, chocolate, preservatives, and unhealthy food choices can also be a trigger. It’s mostly the choice of food and lifestyle that affects the frequency of attacks. Though for most people headache is the only symptom, for some the symptoms can be more debilitating. Studies have linked migraines to an elevated risk of stroke and other cardiovascular problems.
Also Read: Can Ayurvedic Treatment Alleviate Migraine?
Causes of the migraine attack
- Stress
- Professional burnout
- Sudden change in Sleep-Wake Pattern
- Changes in the Environment
- Alcohol and caffeinated beverages
- Food Additives
- Salty foods, chocolate, and processed foods
- Hormonal Changes
- Oral contraceptives
- Sensory Stimuli
- Sex
Ayurvedic types of Headaches
In Ayurvedic treatment of headaches, the focus is on finding the root cause of the headache and treating this disorder according to the dosha.
Vata type of headache
- The headache usually starts at the back of the head and then travels to the front.
- Putting 3 to 5 drops of warm ghee in each nostril may help soothe the headache.
- Stay hydrated and take electrolytes.
Pitta Type of Headache
- The pain starts from the temple area and travels to the central part of the head.
- Take 2 tsp of Aloe vera gel up to three times a day.
- Apply a cooling paste of sandalwood paste on your head
- Drink cumin and coriander tea.
Kapha Type of Headache
- Kapha-type headaches are often connected with a clogged and congested nose.
- Applying a ginger paste on the forehead is known to help immensely.
- Some may experience a burning sensation due to the paste on the skin.
- Putting lukewarm saltwater in the nostrils may help clear clogged noses and relieve headaches.
Ayurvedic Therapies for Headaches
Nasya
Nasya is an Ayurvedic treatment in which herbal oils are administered through the nose. The medicated oils help to pacify Vata and drain the mucus deposited in the sinuses.
Oil Pulling
Another super effective Ayurvedic therapy for migraine is oil pulling. Oil pulling is a simple technique of swishing your mouth with coconut or sesame oil. These oils have powerful medicinal properties that help detoxify the body and relieve migraines.
Shirodhara
Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic therapy in which warm medicated oil is poured continuously on the forehead drop by drop. The pressure of the oil forms a vibration on the forehead which calms the nervous system and relaxes the mind. A relaxing head massage can further help in relieving the pain.
Hot water bath
A hot water bath at the start of the day can help in clearing the breath ways. Adding a few drops of essential oil to the bathing water can help further relax the nerves.
Rock Salt
Replacing common salt with rock salt can help in treating severe headaches. Drinking lukewarm with a pinch of rock salt is a good remedy for headaches.
Chandan
Sandalwood is one of the age-old remedies that aid in soothing headaches. Apply the cooling paste of sandalwood on the forehead and let it sit for 20 minutes.
Drink Water
When you get a migraine attack, drink 3 glasses of cold water or warm water (whichever suits you) and lie down in a dark room. Apply a cold pack on the head and take complete bed rest. Dehydration is one of the most common causes of migraines. So, hydrating yourself with fluids can help in relieving the pain.
Meditate
It is scientifically proven that meditation can help in relieving headaches and reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. It is a great stress reliever that calms the mind and relaxes the nerves. If you are a beginner then you can practice guided meditation.
Also Read: Role of Meditation and mindfulness in clinical practice
Basil
Basil or tulsi leaves have great anti-inflammatory effects that can relieve nasal congestion and ease headaches. Drinking basil tea, inhaling basil oil, or massaging basil leaves on the temples are effective treatments for migraine attacks.
Also Read: Scientific Benefits of Tulsi
Do’s and Don’ts for migraine patients
Do’s
- Record your migraine – Keep a headache diary to track your migraine attacks. Note the foods you have eaten before the headache started. Also, note your sleep patterns, menstrual cycle, and food habits. This will help you to identify the triggers and prevent further attacks.
- Get a Massage – Massaging your neck and shoulders relieves the tension in the muscles. Massaging your body with Ayurvedic medicated oils has many benefits. Try Abhyanga or Padabhyanga before bedtime.
- Take Rest and sleep – Sleep can be a trigger as well as a cure for migraine. Resting in a well-ventilated dark room and taking a power nap for half an hour can help in easing migraine pain.
- Eat a properly balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and natural whole foods. Also, it is very important to eat your meals at regular intervals and avoid long gaps between meals. Also, increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods can help. Flaxseeds, walnuts, and soybeans can help.
- Try an Elimination diet –Stay away from carbs and sugar and try an elimination diet to identify your dietary triggers. Replacing processed foods with natural anti-inflammatory foods can help in preventing headaches.
- Diet – Studies say that adding fatty acids to your diet can help in headache management. Cod-liver oil, salmon, oysters, sardines, mackerels, eggs, and shrimps, are rich in omega-3.
Don’ts
- Don’t skip meals – Skipping meals can lead to gastritis which can also trigger migraine. So, don’t skip your meals, especially your breakfast.
- Don’t overexert – Too much exercise can also be a trigger for migraine. Regular and light exercise is better for your overall health.
- Avoid alcohol – Alcohol can be a trigger factor for migraine. So, if you have a migraine then avoid alcohol.
- Avoid sun exposure – Bright sunlight and heat are other triggers for headaches. Cover your head and wear sunglasses to protect yourself from overheating.
- Limit your screen time – Continuous screen exposure like watching TV, computer, or mobile phone can strain the eyes. Eye strain can also act as a trigger factor for migraine pain.
- Avoid stress – Tension and overthinking can be a big factor causing headaches. Regular exercise, yoga, sound sleep, meditation, massage, and aromatherapy can help.
- Limit the environmental stressors – Avoid loud noises, strong pungent smells, and flashy lights. They can trigger your migraine attack.
Take away!
Migraine attacks are very common and they can be very tormenting. Multiple factors can affect your migraine attacks. Ayurvedic remedies for treating migraine are proven to be safe and effective.
According to Ayurveda, a soothing head massage is the best cure for headaches. Also focusing on your water intake can keep headaches away. Declogging your nostrils with herbal oils or ghee can bring immediate relief. Many such simple tips can help in bringing immediate relief in treating headaches.
