EVALUATING THE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF AYURVEDIC INTERVENTIONS IN MIGRAINE: A REVIEW OF EXPERIMENTAL AND CLINICAL EVIDENCE

Abstract

Background: Migraine is a chronic neurovascular disorder characterized by recurrent headache episodes often accompanied by nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia. Despite advances in modern therapeutics, many patients experience incomplete relief or adverse drug effects, leading to increased interest in traditional and integrative systems of medicine. Ayurveda describes Ardhavabhedaka under Shiro Roga, which shares striking clinical resemblance with migraine. Various Ayurvedic interventions such as Nasya Karma, Shirodhara, Pathyadi Kashaya, and Ksheerabala Taila have been explored for their potential to modulate Vata-Pitta imbalance and improve neurological stability. Aim: To evaluate the therapeutic potential of Ayurvedic interventions in the management of migraine through an evidence-based review of experimental and clinical studies. Objectives: To analyze classical Ayurvedic concepts of Ardhavabhedaka and correlate them with the modern understanding of migraine. To review experimental studies assessing pharmacological and neurophysiological mechanisms of Ayurvedic drugs and therapies used in migraine. To evaluate clinical research evidence on the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic interventions such as Nasya Karma, Shirodhara, and Pathyadi Kashaya in migraine. To identify gaps in current research and propose directions for future studies integrating Ayurvedic and modern approaches.

Methods:
A comprehensive literature review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts, Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), and modern scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies focusing on experimental models, randomized clinical trials, and comparative studies involving Ayurvedic formulations and therapies in migraine were included. Data were analyzed for intervention type, dosage, duration, outcomes, and safety profiles. Results: Multiple studies demonstrate significant reduction in headache frequency, intensity, and associated symptoms following Ayurvedic therapies such as Ksheerabala Taila Nasya, Pathyadi Kashaya, Brahmi Ghrita, and Shirodhara with Ksheerabala Taila. These interventions show promising neuroprotective, antioxidant, and vasomodulatory effects. Experimental findings indicate modulation of serotonin, nitric oxide, and oxidative stress pathways, aligning with classical explanations of Vata-Pitta pacification and Manovaha Srotas stabilization. Most interventions were well-tolerated with minimal adverse effects. Conclusion: Ayurvedic interventions hold significant therapeutic potential in migraine management by addressing both neurological and psychosomatic components. Their multimodal actions—combining neurovascular regulation, stress reduction, and systemic Dosha balance—make them promising complementary or alternative treatment options. However, standardized protocols and large-scale clinical trials are required to validate efficacy and establish pharmacological mechanisms.