Migraines can be quite overwhelming, but Ayurveda offers various natural therapies that help ease the condition by balancing the body's doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These are some notable Ayurvedic approaches for migraine relief:
Herbal Pastes (Shirolepa)
Applying herbal pastes, such as those made from sandalwood, camphor, and Jatamansi, to the scalp can be soothing. These pastes are particularly effective for calming the Pitta dosha, which is often involved in migraines.
Oil Pouring Therapy (Shiro Dhara)
This technique involves pouring a steady stream of warm oil onto the forehead and scalp. The oil used depends on the imbalanced dosha. For Vata, Ksheer Bala Taila or Chandanadi Taila is recommended, while Ksheer Dhara (using cow’s milk) is ideal for Pitta. If Vata is blocked, buttermilk (Takra Dhara) is applied.
Oil Pulling (Kavala Graha)
A traditional Ayurvedic practice, oil pulling involves swishing medicinal oils such as Chandanadi Taila or Mahanarayana Taila in the mouth, helping to remove toxins and alleviate migraines.
Oil Retention Therapy (Shirovasti)
In Shirovasti, medicated oils are retained on the scalp for a period of time, using a specialized cap. Oils that pacify Vata and Pitta are especially effective in relieving migraines.
Nasal Oil Instillation (Sneha Nasya)
This practice involves administering medicated oils, such as Shadbindu Taila or Anu Taila, into the nostrils to clear blockages and balance the doshas, providing relief from migraine symptoms.
Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Migraine Relief
- Nasal Drops: Crush fresh jasmine or pomegranate leaves and extract their juice with a pinch of salt. Instill 2-3 drops into each nostril in the morning and evening. This may help reduce headache intensity.
- Doorva Grass Drink: Extract juice from a handful of Doorva grass and mix in licorice powder. Drinking this daily for 20-30 days may offer relief.
- Coriander Seed Infusion: Soak coriander seeds in water overnight and drink the infusion in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Raisin and Almond Soak: Soak five raisins and five almonds overnight in water and eat them the next morning.
- Overnight Migraine Drink: Soak cumin, coriander, fennel seeds, and raisins in a glass of water overnight. Consume the mixture in the morning on an empty stomach to help reduce migraine episodes.
Ayurveda’s holistic approach addresses the root causes of migraines by focusing on balancing your doshas. For personalized advice, consult an Ayurvedic practitioner who can assess your unique constitution.
Learn More:
https://www.ayushakti.com/5-ayurveda-migraine-relief-remedies-you-need-to-know/
