AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ARDHAVBHEDAKA (MIGRAINE) - A CASE REPORT

Migraine, referred to as Ardhavbhedaka in Ayurveda, is a prevalent and incapacitating neurological condition marked by recurring episodes of severe headaches, typically on one side of the head. These migraine episodes are frequently accompanied by various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and aversion to sound (phonophobia). While conventional medicine mainly employs pharmacological approach-es— such as analgesics, antiemetic’s, and preventative medications, these treatments often demonstrate limited effectiveness over the long term and can lead to considerable side effects. Consequently, many individuals ex-plore alternative or complementary therapies, such as Ayurveda, to manage their condition in a more compre-hensive way. This case report examines the Ayurvedic treatment of a 30-year-old woman diagnosed with recur-rent migraine attacks. Over the past three years, she has experienced 3 to 4 migraine episodes each month. Her treatment involved a combination of Ayurvedic therapies specifically aimed at balancing the doshas (especially Vata and Pitta), along with detoxification and rejuvenation strategies. The comprehensive treatment plan incor-porated herbal remedies, Panchakarma therapies, dietary modifications, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to the patient’s individual constitution and the underlying causes of her migraines. Key herbal treatments included Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) for enhancing mental clarity and reducing stress, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) for achieving dosha balance, and Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) for its soothing and analgesic effects. Furthermore, the treatment regimen involved weekly Shirodhara therapy (where warm oil is poured over the forehead), Nasya (nasal application of medicated oils), and diverse lifestyle changes such as integrating Yoga and meditation for stress management and making dietary adjustments. The results showed substantial improve-ment in the frequency, intensity, and duration of migraine attacks. The patient experienced a decrease in attack frequency from 3-4 times monthly to once every two months, with the intensity of pain dropping from 8/10 to 2-3/10 on the pain scale. Associated symptoms, like nausea and vomiting, also diminished. Additionally, the pa-tient reported better sleep quality, decreased stress levels, and an overall enhancement in her quality of life. This case underscores the effectiveness of Ayurveda as a viable alternative for managing migraines, particularly for patients interested in a holistic method of treatment. The findings indicate that Ayurvedic therapies—encompassing herbal medicine, Panchakarma, and lifestyle modifications—may offer considerable benefits in addressing chronic migraines while reducing the dependence on conventional pharmacological treatments.