Ayurvedic Management of Migraine

Migraine headache is a severe  headache which can be deabilitating and cause significant disability.They are common among female than males. Migraine is known Suryavarta soola  in Ayurveda, means arise of affliction thus the aggravation of pain with light and heat . However this type of migraine headache maybe different according to a person's individual constitution.

Causes
The exact  cause of migraine is not well known but genetic and environmental cause plays an important role. We know in Ayurveda they can be caused by a pitta-Vata imbalances. An imbalance in the hot Pitta dosha manifests as a burning ,searing sharp pain which can be associated with visual sensation and light sensitivity. Often exacerbated by heat, migraines may be triggered by eyestrain from using computers and watching television. Causes include digestive imbalance; the accumulation of digestive toxins; exposure to environmental pollution and toxins that can be found in food, Air and water and excess stress as expressed in anger , frustration, and mood swings.

Symptoms
Pulsating headache, often on the one side.
Nausea
Sensitivity to light, noise and odour.
Pulsating and recurrent pain
Blurred vision.

Dos and Don'ts for migration

Avoid food stuffs that trigger the disease.
Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
Avoid dried food stuffs, fast food and junk food.
Take warm food rich in clarified butter.
Do regular meditation and pranayama.
Regularise your bowels.

Ayurvedic treatment
Ayurvedic treatment is not for the disease itself but it is tailored for the particular condition of the disease of the individual. Panchakarma (purification) treatments are highly recommended for treating migraine. This is done after a detail Ayurvedic consultation with the Ayurvedic doctor. Treatment is tailored by the doctor which can consist of herbs, therapies and a diet / lifestyle programme.