New Delhi, January 24. Many rush for painkillers at the first sign of a headache, assuming the problem lies in the head. But ancient Ayurvedic wisdom suggests otherwise. Headaches often signal deeper issues in the digestive system, particularly the stomach.
In simple terms, gut troubles like constipation or acidity could be triggering your pounding head. The revered text ‘Sushruta Samhita’ by Maharishi Sushruta explains that headaches stem from imbalances in Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. These imbalances rise from the gut to the head, fueled by problems like trapped gas, indigestion, or chronic constipation.
Spicy, fried, or sour foods spike Pitta dosha, which travels through the bloodstream to the brain, causing burning sensations, heaviness, and pain behind the eyes—often mistaken for migraines. Similarly, constipation allows toxins to build up, polluting the blood and affecting brain function. Applying balms or popping pills merely masks symptoms without addressing the root cause in the gut.
Ayurveda offers proven remedies. Nasya therapy—instilling a few drops of pure ghee in the nostrils—calms Pitta and nourishes nerves. For acidity-induced headaches, soak coriander seeds overnight, add mishri (rock sugar), and drink the water. Constipation and gas respond well to Avipattikar churna powder and a paste of dry ginger (saunth).
Lifestyle tweaks are crucial: Avoid late-night heavy meals, cold drinks, and stale food. Ditch daily painkillers. Modern science backs this with the gut-brain axis research, showing a healthy gut naturally reduces headaches.
Embrace these holistic fixes for lasting relief from nagging headaches.