As per Ayurveda, Shira or head is considered as uttamanga or the most important and major part of the body. Shira is always compared with the sun and all the sense organs and the channels carrying the sensory and vital impulse from the shira are like the rays from the sun.
The science of Ayurveda considers headache to be caused because of two primary reasons – a sensitive nervous system and impaired digestion. Improper diet and lifestyle causes aggravation of Pitta in the body. In an aggravated state, Pitta impairs digestion, leading to production of digestive impurities, which gets stored in the manovahi strotas (mind channels), thereby becoming the cause for headaches. A sensitive nervous system lowers the energy in the body. Lowering of ojas causes migraine-like problems. Ayurvedic treatment of headache does not focus on simply alleviating the pain but aims at treating the root cause.
Headaches can arise from several physical, emotional, and environmental factors. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight often triggers headaches, while cold, moist air, fog, or dew can also lead to discomfort. Spending too much time playing or working in water contributes to the problem. Irregular sleep patterns, such as excessive sleep or staying awake late at night, may disturb the body’s natural rhythm and cause pain. Suppressing emotions or holding back tears increases internal stress, which can manifest as a headache. Excessive alcohol intake is another frequent cause.
Withholding natural urges like defecation, sneezing, hunger, sleep, yawning, tears, or sexual urges can disturb the body’s balance and lead to head pain. Mental stress and continued eye strain are common triggers in daily life. Exposure to unpleasant or incompatible odours may cause further discomfort. Consuming contaminated, incompatible, or unwholesome food disrupts digestion and often results in recurring headaches.
Based on the type of headache, different types of treatments are prescribed as per Ayurveda. Triphala choorna, Shirashooladivajra rasa, amalaki, anu taila, and medicines such as Shoola Gajakesari rasa are given in adequate dosages. Diet & lifestyle advices are also prescribed which include having easily digestible foods, fruits, dry fruits like almonds or walnuts, as well as shirodhara treatments.
Itoozhi Ayurveda promises freedom from headaches through various treatments.
