What
is migraine ?
Headache
can be due to many causes: indigestion, constipation, colds and flus,
poor posture or muscle tension. As a nerve pain condition, it is placed
here, though it could go in other categories as well. Migraine, a
more severe type headache, is often related to congenital factors.
Headaches
often relate to hypertension and the increased pressure in the head.
Headache is another more common Vata (air) disorder. Vata headache
is characterized by extreme pain, anxiety, depression, constipation,
and dry skin. It is aggravated by lack of sleep, irregular diet, excessive
activity, and mental stimulation, worry and stress.
Pitta
(fire) headache symptoms are burning sensation, red face and eyes,
sensitivity to light, anger, irritability, and sometimes nose bleeds.
It is often associated with liver disorders or toxic blood conditions.
Kapha
(water) type is more a dull headache with feelings of heaviness and
tiredness. There may be nausea, phlegm, excess salivation or vomiting.
It is usually caused by congestion of phlegm in the head and may be
associated with pulmonary disorders.
What
is the treatment of migraine ?
For
sinus and congestive headaches, those associated with common cold,
cough or allergies (usually Kapha or Vata), decongestant and expectorant
herbs are used: calamus, ginger, bayberry, angelica, wild ginger.
Calamus powder can be snuffed or calamus ghee applied to the inner
nose. The former is better for Kapha, the latter for Vata. Basil,
particularly holy basil (tulsi) is excellent as a tea. Ginger paste
can be applied to the lower nose and temples. Helpful essential oils
for external application are camphor, wintergreen or eucalyptus.
Purgation
is useful, as in all nervous disorders the colon is the main site
of the problem. Vata type headaches benefit from Triphala as a purgative.
Useful herbs include valerian, jatamansi, camomile, calamus and gotu
kola. The formula Sarasvat powder is good. Adequate sleep is essential,
so herbal sedatives are indicated.
Pitta
benefits from aloe powder or rhubarb root as a purgative. The liver
should also be cleansed. Gotu kola is excellent by itself or with
passionflower or as Gotu kola compound. Sandalwood oil should be applied
to the head. Sun and heat should be avoided; cool walks in the moonlight
and flower fragrances like rose or lotus are good.
Kapha
does well with formulas such as Trikatu or Clove combination. Camphorated
oils can also be applied to the head. Strong exercise is often helpful.
Migraine
headache is usually due to Pitta (fire) and Vata (air). Causes include
lack of sleep, overwork, stress, poor digestion or muscular tension.
We
offer some classical Indian supportive remedies for this disease which
are supposed to be taken strictly under medical supervision. Kindly
Ask a Doctor
