AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON ARDHAVABHEDAKA (MIGRAINE) - A CASE STUDY

Migraine is a primary neurovascular disorder characterized by unilateral, pulsating headaches of moderate-to-severe intensity lasting 4–72 hours. Common associated symptoms include nausea, vomiting, photophobia, and phonophobia. The condition is categorized by the presence or absence of an aura—transient neurological symptoms (typically visual) resulting from cortical spreading depolarization and trigeminovascular activation—which may precede or accompany the pain. Ayurvedic texts describe a clinical entity comparable to migraine under Ardhavabhedaka, categorized as a Vāta–Pitta predominant disorder of the head (Śiroroga). The condition is understood to arise from persistent dietary and lifestyle incompatibilities (Mithyā Āhāra–Vihāra). Contributory factors include the habitual consumption of dry and rough foods (Rūkṣa dravya), irregular eating patterns, and voluntary suppression of physiological urges. In addition, psychophysical stressors, such as excessive physical strain and exposure to cold or moist environments, are recognized as significant triggers that disturb doshic equilibrium and culminate in the clinical expression of the disease. The management of Ardhavabhedaka primarily focuses on Shamana Chikitsa to pacify vitiated Vata and Pitta Doshas, correct Agni, and eliminate Ama, thereby effectively reducing the frequency, intensity, and duration of headache along with associated symptoms such as nausea and irritability. In this single-case study, a patient suffering from migraine for two years was treated predominantly with the internal medications along with Nasya for a month. Clinical assessment revealed marked improvement in headache severity, associated symptoms, and overall quality of life. This case highlights the significant role of Shamana Aushadhi as the mainstay of treatment in Ardhavabhedaka, with Nasya Karma serving as an effective adjuvant therapy.