Doctor Bon

Migraine or anantavata is a type of headache which is characterized by recurring paroxysmal attacks. Often only one side of the patient’s head pains. Between the attacks, the patient feels perfectly will and leads a normal life. Sometimes the headache increases as the sun moves up in the sky, and the patient fells normal as the sun goes down. Excessive worry and anxiety is considered to be the primary cause of this type of headache. Exposing the head to the hot sun, cold wind or show for a long time is one of the precipitating factors. Many patients suffering from migraine also suffer from sinusitis.

Vomiting may accompany a severe attack. Between two attacks, the patient feels normal but a trace of heaviness in the head and congestion in the nose remains.

Treatment: indigestion often precipitates attacks of this disease. In case of nausea, vomiting relieves indigestion and thus, the patient is relieved of headache. Even if there is no nausea, inducing vomiting by drinking 5-6 glasses of lukewarm water with a little salt or irritating the throat with a finger may help. Constipation is a constant and major complaint. A teaspoon of Triphala powder take in regularly at night with a cup of hot milk is a good antidote.

Oleation or nasal inhalation of medicinal oils like Anu taila (made from sesame oil) or shadbindu taila, both herbal oils, gives instant relief. The drug suvarna sutashekhara is also used in treatment. It contains mercury, gold, copper, sulphur and borax in ash from. Godanti bhasma, a therapeutic mixture which is very cheap, is also used.

Diet and regimen: fried, spicy foods are harmful. Curd and anything sour should be avoided. One must be free from indigestion, constipation, mental worries and anxieties. Exposure to excessive heat, cold and rain must be avoided.