Ayurvedic Remedies for Headaches.
- Manish Arya
- Nov 29, 2017
- 3 min read
Ayurvedic Remedies for Headaches.
Millions of people suffer from headaches, with an unfortunately large number suffering from migraine headaches. Headaches are so common, that many of us cope with the suffering in our daily lives, sometimes seeking relief and sometimes not. While western medicine provides us with many options for over the counter treatment of headaches, the approach is far from holistic and doesn’t address the underlying cause of our headaches. Headaches affect the entire mind, body and spirit connection. By
treating only the symptoms of headaches, and not the root we are risking further damage to our bodies.
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Vata.
Vata headaches tend to be located more towards the back of the head. These are the headaches that often result in stiff necks and shoulders, sometimes even reaching further down into the back muscles. Stress and lack of sleep are major contributors to Vata headaches.
Because of the major muscle connection to Vata headaches, a massage using Mahanarayan oil is recommended. Mahanarayan oil is a warming blend based in sesame oil that is used for its ability to reduce tension, as well as to loosen muscles and frozen joints. It is important to keep the body lubricated to prevent Vata headaches. To keep the Vata in balance and to help ease headaches, consume warm teas made with Haritaki, which will promote the elimination of toxins or Triphala, which is an herbal blend that is known for its lubricating properties. Triphala will also help with the elimination of the bowels, the backup of which is another symptom of Vata headaches. In line with keeping the body lubricated, make a nightly ritual of placing a small amount of sesame oil in each nostril at bedtime. Make sure to keep your body in a position so that it doesn’t leak out for several minutes after application.
Pitta.
Pitta headaches are usually focused on the temple areas and the front of the head. There is often an associated sensitivity to light, sharp pains and sometimes dizziness or nausea. Most migraines are considered to be Pitta type headaches. To help balance Pitta, one should avoid excessive heat and sunlight. To counter the heat that has already accumulated in the body, try a soothing light massage. Coconut oil works great as a cooling medium for massage. Start by gently rubbing the coconut oil into your temples, under your eyes and down around your neck. If you are able, continue with a full body massage. If time or circumstances do not allow for a full massage then at least treat yourself to ten minutes in a cool, dimly lit space. Apply coconut oil to the soles of your feet and massage. Do not rush this process, and allow your body to relax, cool and realign its elements. Since Pitta headaches often stem from digestive issues, take care of your diet and focus on calming, cooling foods, especially if you are suffering from a severe headache. Consume aloe gel daily and add foods such as cucumbers and cilantro to your diet. Making a refreshing drink infused with the cucumber and cilantro is one way
to help balance Pitta without putting additional stress on the digestive system.
Kapha.
Kapha headaches are characterized by pressure and stuffiness. Seasonal headaches that lead to dull sinus pressure in the front of the face are Kapha headaches. In severe cases these headaches can affect the entire front of the head and face, sometimes radiating around the sides. The pressure of Kapha headaches is caused from an excessive buildup of mucus and inflamed sinuses. To bring around balance, the focus needs to be on clearing these passages of mucus, and the toxins that it contains. The use of a neti pot will help facilitate the movement of mucus out of the body. Add a small amount of salt to your neti pot and make sure to always use purified water. This can be water that you yourself have boiled and allowed to cool to a lukewarm temperature, or purified distilled water that you have purchased.
Use strong cleansing herbs such as eucalyptus will help eliminate mucus. Place a sprig of Eucalyptus in your shower, and turn on the hot water. You may either enjoy the shower, or sit outside of the shower in a closed bathroom to reap the benefits of the eucalyptus steam.
Consume teas that are aromatic and cleansing to the nostrils as well. Ginger, cinnamon and cloves are excellent and promote decongestion. Sweeten with a little honey and lemon to make the tea easier to drink if you are sensitive to strong flavors.
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