Many of us rely on modern medicine to manage migraines, headaches, and insomnia. While these treatments can provide temporary relief, they often address only the symptoms and may come with side effects. Ayurveda, on the other hand, focuses on natural, long-term solutions for both direct and indirect neurological concerns. Swami Ramdev, co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved, highlights several Ayurvedic remedies and recommends Patanjali products that may support the healing process.
What are insomnia, headaches, and migraines?
While insomnia and migraines are recognised as neurological conditions, headaches are not primarily neurological in nature, though they are closely linked to the functioning of the brain.
Migraines are often described as debilitating neurological disorders that cause intense headaches along with symptoms such as visual auras, nausea, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound. In Ayurveda, migraines are referred to as Ardhavabhedaka, a condition characterised by pain affecting one side of the head. This disorder can arise from a combination of genetic predisposition and external triggers, including stress, hormonal fluctuations, sensory overstimulation, sleep disturbances, and sudden changes in weather.
Headaches, meanwhile, are not always neurological, as they can result from factors such as dehydration, stress, or underlying health conditions. However, certain types, including migraines and tension headaches, do involve neurological mechanisms. Ayurveda refers to headaches as Shirashoola, which are believed to result from imbalances in the doshas.
Insomnia is widely regarded as a neurological and circadian rhythm disorder. It occurs when the nervous system remains in a state of hyperarousal, preventing the brain from making a smooth transition from wakefulness to sleep. In Ayurveda, insomnia, or Anidra, is associated with an imbalance in the Vata Dosha.
Swami Ramdev shares Ayurvedic approaches for managing these conditions, along with Patanjali products that may help support overall well-being.
4 Ayurvedic Solutions to Treat Insomnia, Headache, and Migraine
Almond Oil: Swami Ramdev recommends consuming almond oil first thing in the morning or placing a few drops in the nostrils before bedtime. According to him, it may help manage migraines, poor memory, heaviness in the head, paralysis, Parkinson’s disease, depression, and sinus-related concerns. He particularly highlights its benefits for headaches and insomnia. Massaging the scalp with almond oil is also believed to support overall neurological well-being. Patanjali Roghan Badam Shirin (60 ml and 150 ml) is prepared from high-quality almonds. It is said to nourish the mind, soothe the nervous system, and can also be used for body massage or added to warm milk.
Cow Ghee: Swami Ramdev advises instilling four drops of cow ghee into each nostril as a traditional Ayurvedic practice to help manage insomnia and migraines. This technique, known as Nasya, is believed to support the nervous system, ease tension, and promote relaxation. Patanjali’s Aastha Cow Ghee (200 ml) can be used for Nasya as suggested or incorporated into the daily diet as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Nirgundi: Swami Ramdev says, “When you put four drops of fresh juice of Nirgundi leaves in the nostrils, it is beneficial in treating headaches, Kapha disorders, and migraines.” In Ayurveda, this form of Nasya is believed to help clear excess Kapha. Nirgundi is also valued for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which may help calm the nerves and blood vessels associated with migraines.
Other Herbs: Several Ayurvedic herbs are traditionally used to support neurological health and manage headaches, migraines, and insomnia.
For headaches and migraines, Brahmi is regarded as a cooling herb and cognitive rejuvenator that helps soothe the nervous system and manage stress-related migraines. Ginger is also commonly used to help reduce throbbing pain and nausea associated with migraines.
For insomnia, Ashwagandha is known for its calming effects on the nervous system and its ability to help balance the body's stress response. Shankhapushpi supports cognitive function, reduces nervous irritability, and may help address insomnia linked to emotional stress.
Divya Shankhapushpi Churna (100 g) is a brain tonic that may help improve memory, reduce stress and anxiety, and support better sleep quality.
Divya Brahmi Churna (200 g) is also used as a brain tonic and nerve relaxant. It is believed to help manage headaches and migraines by soothing the nervous system. Its cooling properties may calm the mind and body, providing relief from heat-related or persistent headaches while promoting relaxation and restful sleep.
Insomnia, migraines, and headaches can be managed with these Ayurvedic suggestions shared by Swami Ramdev, co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved, along with the appropriate Patanjali products and healthy lifestyle practices.
