Ayurvedic Medicines Used for Migraine Treatment in Kerala

Migraine is a common type of headache, affecting one in seven people worldwide, and is known for its one-sided, throbbing pain that can disrupt daily activities. 

It’s the third most common health issue and ranks as the seventh leading cause of disability globally. In Ayurveda, migraine is linked to a condition called “Ardhavabhedaka.” Treatment in Ayurveda includes two main approaches: Shodhana (cleansing therapies) and Shamana (calming treatments). 

For migraines, Shodhana therapies like Nasya (nasal treatment) and Virechana (purging) are commonly used, along with Shamana treatments such as medicated ghee and herbal decoctions. 

Ayurvedic Medicines Used for Migraine

To effectively treat migraines (Ardhavbhedaka) in Ayurveda, medicines should target the root cause, typically an imbalance in Vata and Pitta Doshas. 

Medicines need cooling and calming properties to balance these Doshas, reduce excess heat, and soothe the nervous system. Anti-inflammatory herbs are important to ease inflammation in the blood vessels and tissues, which often contribute to migraine pain. 

The medicines should act as a nervine tonic to nourish and protect the nervous system, helping calm the mind and relieve stress, a common migraine trigger.

Detoxification is also essential, as toxins (Ama) in the body can worsen migraines. Therefore, medicines should support digestion and metabolism, preventing toxin buildup. Pain-relieving properties are crucial for providing immediate relief from headache symptoms. 

Additionally, stress-reducing herbs help calm mental strain, and cooling properties are especially important for migraines related to Pitta imbalance, helping to counter excess heat in the body and head for overall relief.

Medicine Preparation at Dheemahi

In the past, Ayurvedic doctors used to personally prepare medicines for their patients, but today, only a few continue this practice. Ayurvedic medicines are generally of two types: classical and proprietary formulations. Classical Ayurvedic medicines are made according to traditional Ayurvedic texts (Samhitas), while proprietary formulations use plant extracts to create unique medicines.

At Dheemahi, we have our own pharmacy and a manufacturing unit approved by the Local Health Authority and certified by GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice). We produce 95% of the medicines we use for our patients in-house, while the remaining 05% are classical Ayurvedic medicines bought from well-known Ayurvedic companies.

Migraine Ayurvedic Treatment

In contemporary medicine, migraine management is primarily focused on prevention. However, Ayurveda offers various treatment methods outlined by ancient scholars (Acharyas).

The Ayurvedic approach includes avoiding triggers, following a Dosha-specific diet, stress management (through meditation, relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, yoga, and mantras), herbal remedies, lifestyle changes, Panchakarma therapies, and other holistic practices to restore balance in both body and mind, aiming for complete relief.

In the case of Ardhavbhedaka (migraine), Vata Dosha is usually aggravated. 

In Migraine Ayurvedic Treatment in Kerala, a combination of treatments from both Shiroroga Chikitsa (for head-related disorders) and Vatavyadhi Chikitsa (for Vata imbalance) is typically employed. Ayurvedic healing goes beyond just herbal medicines and topical applications; the initial focus is on cleansing procedures, known as Shodhana Karma, to purify the aggravated Doshas.

This may include mild purgation (Mridushodhan), nasal treatments (Nasya), enemas (Basti), and specialized head therapies such as Shirobasti, Shirolepa, Shirodhara, and Kaval Graha. These treatments are designed to target the root cause of the migraine and provide lasting relief, while internal medications are customized to the individual’s specific Dosha imbalance.

Shodhana Therapy for Migraine:

Shodhana therapy, a cleansing procedure in Ayurveda, is essential in treating migraine (Ardhavbhedaka). It aims to eliminate the vitiated Doshas from the body, helping restore balance and provide relief from chronic conditions. In the case of migraines, where Vata Dosha is often disturbed, Shodhana plays a crucial role in bringing long-term relief by detoxifying the system. Various therapies, such as Virechana, Nasya, and Basti, are recommended for migraine management.

• Virechana (Purgation):

All Ayurvedic Acharyas have indicated Virechana (purgation) as a key treatment for Shiroroga (head disorders). It is typically the first line of treatment. Due to the involvement of Vata Dosha in migraines, Mriduvirechana (mild purgation) is recommended. Acharya Charaka specifically mentioned this mild purgation for Vata-related disorders (Vatavyadhi).

• Nasya (Nasal Therapy):

In Ayurveda, Nasya therapy is considered one of the most effective treatments for disorders above the shoulders, known as Urdhwajatrugata Vikaras. There are three types of Nasya—Virechana Nasya (cleansing), Brihana Nasya (nourishing), and Shaman Nasya (palliative)—all of which can be used to manage Ardhavbhedaka. Nasya therapy is administered through the nasal route, using medicinal oils such as Shadbindu Taila or Anutaila, which are placed into the nostrils.

• Basti (Enema Therapy):

Acharya Charaka described Ardhavbhedaka (migraine) in the Trimarmya Siddhi Adhaya, highlighting the importance of Shira Marma (head), one of the three vital Marma points. Basti, which is highly effective for pacifying Vata Dosha and treating Shiroroga, is considered one of the best treatments for migraines.

External treatments for Migraine

• Shirovasti:

Shirovasti is a beneficial Ayurvedic therapy where medicated oils are used to calm Vata and Kapha doshas. This treatment helps with conditions related to the brain, such as migraines, throbbing headaches, and even depression.

• Shiro Lepa:

Shirolepa is particularly effective for migraines caused by stress. In this treatment, herbal pastes are prepared and applied to the head. The paste is left on for about an hour before being washed off with warm water.

• Shirodhara:

Shirodhara is a powerful Ayurvedic therapy that deeply relaxes the nervous system. A continuous, thin stream of liquid is poured over the forehead, where many nerves are concentrated. The gentle pressure of the oil creates a calming effect, helping the mind and nervous system relax, similar to meditation. 

This therapy is especially helpful for balancing Pitta and Vata doshas. For Pitta imbalances, cow’s milk can be used (called Ksheeradhara), and for Vata-related headaches, buttermilk is used (called Takradhara).

Conclusion

Migraine headaches can be very painful and disruptive. It’s important to address and manage migraines for better health. Migraines are a neurological condition that can lead to severe headaches, dizziness, and drowsiness, with modern medicine identifying eight different types. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to treating migraines, using various home remedies and Ayurvedic medicines to help manage pain effectively and improve overall well-being.

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