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Top 11 Homeopathic Medicines for Headaches

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 47 Comments

A headache is one of the most common health complaints, characterized by pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck region. It may vary from mild to severe. There are more than 100 types of headaches. Among them, the most common types are migraine, tension headache, sinus headache, and cluster headache. A person may feel a headache in only one part of the head or in more than one region. The various regions include the frontal (forehead), temples (sides of the head), vertex (top of the head), and occiput (back of the head). In some cases, the pain starts from a particular area of the head and then reaches another area.

Homeopathy has a huge scope to treat cases of headache. Both types of headaches, recent and chronic ones, can be treated wonderfully and naturally with homeopathic medicines. Homeopathic medicines not only provide relief in acute cases of headaches but also get to the root cause for complete cure. Along with the headache, any accompanying symptoms like nausea, vomiting, flashes of light in front of the eyes, nasal discharge, nasal congestion, and watery eyes are well managed with these medicines. In conventional treatment, usually painkillers are prescribed for relief from headaches. These medicines offer temporary relief.  They can be habit-forming and also carry the risk of side effects.

Homeopathy treats different headaches differently

Homeopathy is highly recommended to treat different types of headaches. With the regular use of homeopathic medicines, the intensity and frequency of recurrence gradually decline. Homeopathy is recommended only when there is no serious cause behind the headache. Therefore, it should be kept in mind that in cases of serious causes (like very high blood pressure, meningitis, ruptured aneurysm), immediate help should be sought from the conventional mode.

Individualized Medication

Homeopathic medicines are always prescribed keeping the individual in mind. Many factors are kept in mind to finalize the homeopathic prescription. These mainly include the side of the headache, the location of the headache (like side, back, top or front of head), at what time it occurs, the worsening and relieving factors, the accompanying symptoms, and also various other causes behind the headache. Such individualized homeopathic treatment tends to bring about faster recovery in such cases.

Safe, non-habit-forming medicine

Homeopathic medicines for treating headaches are of natural origin and hence are very safe to use. They have no side effects at all, even after long-term use.

homeopathic medicines for headache

Top 11 Homeopathic Medicines for Headaches

The top 11 well-known homeopathic remedies for managing headache are Belladonna, Glonoinum, Natrum Muriaticum, Iris Versicolor, Sanguinaria Canadensis, Spigelia Anthelmintica, Kalium Phosphoricum, Kali Bichromicum, Epiphegus, Gelsemium Sempervirens and Nux Vomica.

1. Belladonna – Top-Ranked Medicine for Headaches

Belladonna is a top medicine for headaches. It is a natural medicine prepared from a plant named ‘Deadly Nightshade’ of the natural order Solanaceae. One can use this medicine if the headache is throbbing or pulsating. Fullness in the head may also be felt. Pain comes suddenly and also ceases suddenly. Pain is mostly marked on the sides of the head (temporal region). Along with headache, there is redness of the eyes and face. A headache triggered by light is also an indication to use Belladonna. Besides, a headache that is triggered by noise or exposure to cold air is also treated with the help of this medicine. Belladonna is also administered by applying pressure on the head, tight bandaging or wrapping up the head, which relieves pain.

When to use Belladonna?

It should be administered if there is a throbbing or pulsating headache, mostly marked on the sides of the head, usually triggered by bright light, noise and cold air exposure.

 How to use Belladonna?

It works well in both low and high potencies. Initially, it is best administered in 30C potency two to three times daily.

2. Glonoinum – For Congestive Headaches Triggered From Sun Exposure

Glonoinum is a highly effective medicine for headaches. Glonoinum is a top homeopathic medicine for headaches due to sun exposure. Its use is highly recommended for headaches in summers. It is mostly helpful in case of a headache that is congestive in nature. One has a sensation as if all the blood in the body has surged to the head, and there is extreme congestion. There is also a constriction in the vessels of the head. A throbbing, bursting sensation is felt in the head. The person feels every pulsation in the head. Extreme fullness is felt with a feeling as if the head would burst. Heat is felt in the head, accompanied by severe pain in the forehead and throbbing in the temples. Vertigo may arise along with flashes of heat on the face, head, and throbbing headache. The face appears red, flushed with heat. A headache may aggravate from motion or jarring. In most such cases, where Glonoinum is the standard prescription, the headache is relieved by sleep.

When to use Glonoinum?

Its use is highly recommended for a congestive headache with a bursting sensation in the head triggered by sun exposure.

How to use Glonoinum?

Both 30C or 200C potency of this medicine give excellent results. In the beginning, two to three doses of this medicine in 30C potency can be used per day.

3. Natrum Muriaticum– For sun-triggered menstrual headaches

Natrum Mur is the next most prescribed medicine for treating headaches. Natrum Mur is a medicine with great benefits for headaches among women during the menstrual cycle. The woman needing this remedy has a headache immediately before/after menses or during menses. It is also a suitable medicine for headaches due to sun exposure. There is a constant headache from sunrise to sunset. The nature of the headache is throbbing, and usually, there is heat felt in the head. In some cases, there is a sensation as if many little hammers are knocking inside the head. The headache is most noticeable in the forehead. Due to this, there is strain in the eye caused by reading and this is another indication to use this medicine. Natrum Mur is also administered for headache if the eyes are profusely watery or there is disturbed vision. A headache that begins with blindness or zig-zag flashes, like lightning in the eyes, is another characteristic symptom to use this medicine.

When to use Natrum Muriaticum?

This medicine is administered to manage headaches among women and it gets worse around the menstrual cycle. It is also recommended to manage headaches from exposure to the sun and also for a constant headache from sunrise to sunset.

How to use Natrum Muriaticum?

Its use is preferred in 6X potency and can be taken twice or thrice a day.

4. Sanguinaria Canadensis – For Right-Sided Headaches

Sanguinaria Canadensis is a prominent medicine for headaches on the right side. This medicine is prepared from a plant commonly named ‘bloodroot’ of the natural order Papaveraceae. Pain that begins from the back of the head and then ascends up and sits over the right eye is the characteristic feature of using this medicine. Sleeping or lying quietly in a dark room relieves the pain in most cases who needs this remedy. Headaches that arise from fasting are also treated well with this medicine.

When to use Sanguinaria Canadensis?

The key indication to use this medicine is a pain that begins from the back of the head, radiating upwards and sits over the right eye.

How to use Sanguinaria Canadensis?

It works wonderfully in 30C potency that can be administered once or twice a day.

5. Spigelia Anthelmintica – For Left-Sided Headaches

Spigelia Anthelmintica is prepared from a plant named ‘Pinkroot’ of the family Loganiaceous. It is a useful medicine for left-sided headaches. Headache that can be located over the left side of the temporal region, forehead, and eyes are indicative symptoms of this medicine. Most people who need this remedy have pain that begins at the back of the head, extends up and settles over the left eye. The nature of pain is violent, throbbing and pulsating. Stooping may worsen headaches in some cases. Pain in the eyeballs may accompany the above symptoms that are seen to be aggravated by eye movement.

When to use Spigelia Anthelmintica?

The characteristic symptoms of using this medicine are a pain in the back of the head that extends upwards and finally settles over the left eye.

How to use Spigelia Anthelmintica?

It is best to initiate it in 30C potency that can be administered once or twice a day.

6. Iris Versicolor – For Headaches Accompanied by Nausea and Vomiting

Iris Versicolor is prepared from a plant commonly named ‘Blue Flag’ of the family Iridaceae. It is an excellent medicine for headaches accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Vomiting is bitter and sour in nature. A burning sensation in the gastric tract is also felt. The headache may be dull, shooting, and throbbing in nature, especially when the right temple is affected. Other symptoms that may appear include blurring of vision before headache, vertigo and constriction in the scalp.

When to use Iris Versicolor?

It is prescribed when headache occurs along with accompanying nausea and vomiting.

 How to use Iris Versicolor?

It can be administered in 30C potency once or twice a day.

7. Kali Phosphoricum – For Tension/Stress Headaches

Kali Phosphoricum is a very useful medicine for tension/stress headaches. To use Kali Phos, the symptoms to look for include nervous headache, a sensation of weight in the back of the head, and weakness. There is pain across the forehead and in both temples. The sensation of a band around the forehead just above the eyes is frequently felt. Sensitivity to noise also attends the headache. There is marked tiredness along with the headache. Stress headache triggered by anxiety, stress and emotional disturbance is a key pointer to use this medicine. The headache gets better with even slight motion. The individuals who need this medicine are anxious, sad and full of worries. Kali Phos is also well-indicated for a headache that results from mental exertion as among students.

When to use Kali Phos?

This medicine proves effective in cases of headache due to stress, tension and headache arising due to mental exertion, like too much time spent on studies.

 How to use Kali Phos?

It is mostly used in 6X potency. Kali Phos 6X can be taken three to four times a day as per the intensity of the symptoms.

8. Kali Bichromicum – For Sinus Headaches

Kali Bichromicum is a very effective medicine for treating sinus headaches. The person who needs this medicine has pain in the forehead above the eyes, with blocked nostrils. The pain may be dull or throbbing in nature. The frontal sinus feels congested. Another characteristic feature is mucus dripping in the throat from the posterior nares. In some cases, vertigo, shooting pain at the root of the nose and thick yellowish-greenish discharge from the nose also appear.

When to use Kali Bichromicum?

This medicine is the best solution for headaches from sinus inflammation with pain marked in the forehead above the eyes.

How to use Kali Bichromicum?

To start with, one can take this medicine in 30C power twice or thrice a day.

9. Epiphegus – For Headaches from Exertion

Epiphegus is a wonderful medicine for headaches due to exertion, mental/physical exhaustion. Epiphegus is prepared from a plant named ‘beech drop’ of the family Orobanchaceae. Pain is usually felt on the sides of the head (temporal region). The pain is pressing in nature. The pain may radiate to the back of the head. A unique accompanying feature is the increased saliva with constant spitting and headaches.

When to use Epiphegus?

It is suitable for cases of headache resulting from exertion, either physical or mental.

How to use Epiphegus?

It is advised to use Epiphegus 30C once or twice a day.

10. Gelsemium Sempervirens – For Dull, Heavy, Occipital Headaches

Gelsemium is administered if there is a dull, heavy, and congestive headache that has its onset in the occiput and spreads over the head, often accompanied by marked heaviness of the eyelids and a desire to lie down quietly. The pain is pressing or as if a band has been tied around the head. There is also a bruise-like feeling, and is commonly associated with vertigo, blurred vision, and muscular weakness. The person feels drowsy, sluggish, and trembling, with a headache often triggered by emotional excitement, anticipation, fright, or sun exposure. One usually finds relief from rest by pressing the head and by elevating the head.

When to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

Gelsemium works wonders for dull, heavy occipital headaches with drooping eyelids, weakness, and marked drowsiness.

How to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

It can be used in lower potency 30C once or twice a day.

11. Nux Vomica- for Headache from Strain and Stimulants

Nux Vomica is administered for headaches arising from mental strain, sedentary habits, late nights, rich food, alcohol, or excessive coffee. The headache is often frontal or occipital, with a pressing, bursting, or stitching pain felt, as if a nail were driven into the head. The person is extremely irritable, sensitive to noise, light, and odors, and feels worse in the morning, especially after disturbed sleep or overindulgence. The pain may be associated with gastric disturbances, constipation, or a feeling of hangover, and is typically relieved by rest, warmth, and silence.

When to use Nux vomica?

Nux Vomica works well when a headache follows mental strain, late nights, overeating, alcohol, or excessive coffee.

How to use Nux Vomica?

It can be initiated with a lower potency 30C once a day. Higher potency such as 200C, 1M, can be administered only under the guidance of a qualified homoeopath.

Causes of Headaches

The headaches may arise either from an underlying medical condition or without an underlying medical condition. Depending upon the cause, headaches are classified into primary and secondary headaches.

1. Primary headaches

Primary headaches arise from overactivity of structures in the head that are sensitive to pain. Changes in chemical activity in the brain also play a role in primary headaches. Primary headaches do not relate to any separate underlying medical condition. The following are some of the common types of primary headaches:

1. Tension/stress headache

2. Migraine

3. Cluster headache

2. Secondary headaches

Secondary headaches are the ones that arise from an underlying medical condition. Secondary headaches are often a symptom of a disease. The reasons for secondary headaches include

1. Sinusitis/sinus infection

2. High blood pressure

3. Cervicogenic headache (headaches caused by problems with the nerves, bones, or muscles in the cervical spine (neck).

4. Gastrointestinal disorders

5. Dental complaints

6. Temporal arteritis

7. Post-traumatic (head injury)

8. Influenza

9. Alcohol-induced hangover

10. Meningitis, encephalitis

Triggers of Headaches

1. Stress and Emotional Factors:Emotional stress, anxiety, work pressure, or suppressed anger can trigger headaches. Strong emotions or grief may also trigger an attack.

2. Sleep Disturbances:Lack of sleep, oversleeping, or irregular sleep patterns can lead to headaches. Poor sleep quality often makes headaches worse.

3. Diet and Eating Habits:Skipping meals, fasting, or dehydration can trigger headaches. Excessive caffeine, sudden caffeine withdrawal, alcohol, and certain foods like chocolate, cheese, and processed meats are some of the common triggers.

4. Hormonal Changes:Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause can set off headaches, especially migraines.

5. Environmental Factors:Exposure to bright sunlight, loud noise, strong odors (perfumes, smoke, chemicals), weather changes, or high altitude can trigger headaches.

6. Physical Factors:Poor posture, neck or shoulder strain, prolonged screen time, and uncorrected vision problems can lead to tension-type headaches.

7. Medical and Physiological Conditions: Fever, infections, high blood pressure (particularly severe cases), sinus congestion, and allergies can all cause headaches. Overuse of painkillers or certain medications may also trigger headaches.

8. Lifestyle Factors: Long working or study hours without breaks, fatigue, travel, jet lag, or excessive screen exposure can contribute to headaches.

Signs and Symptoms of Headaches

Main symptoms related to headaches are: 

1. Nature of pain: Aching pain, tight, band-like pressure, throbbing or pulsating, sharp or stabbing type of pain.

2. Location of Pain: It can be on the forehead, occiput, temples, around the eyes or can be one-sided.

3. Intensity of Pain: It can be mild, moderate or severe.

4. Associated symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light or sound, blurred vision, dizziness, and neck stiffness.

Common Types of Headaches

1.Migraine

A migraine refers to a headache that causes throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head. The pain is intense and is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The cause of migraine is not clearly known. However, genetics and environmental factors tend to play a role in it. There are many well-known triggers for migraine attacks. The major ones include stress, bright lights, noises, food (like fatty food, chocolates, caffeinated drinks, marinated food, cheese, fermented food), smoking, alcohol intake, MSG (monosodium glutamate), sun exposure, loss of sleep, strong odors, and tiredness. In addition to these hormonal fluctuations, menses, menopause or pregnancy may also trigger a migraine.

The symptoms of migraine include a one-sided headache. The major accompanying symptoms include nausea, vomiting, aversion to light, noise, and talking. Some people experience a few symptoms before the migraine attack that help them foresee that a migraine attack is about to come (aura). These symptoms include – seeing flashes of light, zig-zag flashes, dim vision, blurring of vision, numbness/tingling/pin-prick sensation in the arms or around the mouth.

2. Cluster Headache

Cluster headache is a severe form of headache in which there is pain around one eye (periorbital headache). The pain comes in clusters during which one or more than one episode of headache is triggered. Such a headache mostly set off at precisely the same hour each day. The duration of each episode of headache ranges from 15 minutes to 3 hours. The headache lasts for weeks or months. This is followed by a period of remission during which there is no sign of headache at all. The remission period varies from months to years. The reason behind a cluster headache is yet to be known. A family history of cluster headache puts a person at risk.

Symptoms of cluster headache include one-sided pain located in or around the eye. This pain may radiate to the head, face, or neck. Watery eyes, swelling and redness of the eyes, nasal congestion and discharge, and drooping of eyelids on the side where the pain is, are a few accompanying symptoms.

3. Tension headache

In tension-triggered headaches, diffused dull pain in the head appears, which is described as a tight band-like feeling around the head. The reason behind the tension headache is not well known yet. However, contraction of the muscles in the head, scalp, and neck is thought to play a role in such kind of headaches. There are certain triggers that can lead to muscle contraction and give rise to tension headaches. A few trigger factors include stress, anxiety, fatigue, cold, sinus infection, sun exposure, poor posture while sleeping/sitting, and eyestrain. Symptoms of a tension headache include dull, aching pain in the whole head with a tight band-like sensation around the head. Besides, pain in the neck and shoulders may be an accompanying factor. Muscles in the neck, scalp, and shoulders also feel tightened. Head pain gets worse as the day passes. Tiredness usually accompanies the above symptoms.

4. Sinus headache

Sinus headaches appear from the congestion of the paranasal sinus. It is located behind your eyes, nose, cheeks, and forehead. Sinus headaches most commonly appear when sinus becomes inflamed from allergies or from infection. In sinus headache, a constant pain/pressure in the forehead or on the bridge of your nose is felt. The pain usually gets worse when one moves the head or when one suddenly coughs or leans forward. A few symptoms tend to surface, which include a runny nose or green/yellow nasal discharge, a stuffy nose, decreased sense of smell, facial swelling, pressure in the ears, and a feverish feeling.

How serious are headaches?

Most cases of headaches are mild and usually are not a reason for concern. They tend to resolve with time. However, in some cases, the reason behind the headache may be a serious condition like meningitis, critically high blood pressure, ruptured aneurysm, or brain tumor. So every case of headache should be thoroughly analysed to rule out any serious condition in the very beginning.

Frequently Asked Questions

 1. Is a headache a symptom or a disease?

A headache can be both. It is a symptom when caused by another condition (fever, sinusitis, hypertension). It is also a disease when it occurs as a primary disorder, like migraine or tension-type headache.

2. Is every headache a sign of a problem in the brain?

No. Most headaches are not related to brain disease. They are often due to muscle tension, stress, or vascular changes.

3. Is a headache a neurological disorder?

No. Not all headaches are neurological. Some headaches (like migraine) are considered neurological disorders.

 4. Can a headache exist without any physical abnormality?

Yes. Many primary headaches show normal scans and tests, but are still real and distressing.

5. Is headache hereditary?

Some primary headaches, especially migraine, often run in families.

6. Does suppressing a headache repeatedly make it worse?

Overuse of painkillers can lead to medication-overuse headache, making the condition chronic.

7. Can lifestyle correction alone cure a headache?

In mild cases, yes. Regular sleep, good water intake, stress control, and posture correction can significantly reduce frequency.

8. Do all headaches require medical tests?

No. Most common headaches (like tension headache or migraine) do not require tests. Diagnosis is usually made based on history and symptoms.

9. Can homeopathy treat chronic headaches?

Yes. Homoeopathy aims to treat the root cause and individual susceptibility, especially in recurrent or chronic headaches like migraine and tension headaches.

 10. Can homeopathy reduce the frequency of attacks?

Yes. With homeopathic medicines, frequency and intensity often reduce over time.

 

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Top 12 Homeopathic Medicines for Migraine

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 77 Comments

Migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by headache, specifically affecting one side of the head (i.e., unilateral side). Migraine headaches are mostly pulsating or throbbing in nature. Headaches are accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, and sensitivity to light and noise.

Homeopathy offers excellent treatment for cases of migraine. The treatment is carried out in two distinct phases. First, during acute migraine attacks, homeopathic medicines provide relief from pain in the head and its accompanying symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Once acute pain goes away, the treatment should not be stopped. Relief from acute pain is the first phase of treatment. During the second phase of treatment, homeopathy treats the root cause to cure the chronic tendency of migraine. These medicines help prevent the recurrence of migraine and also reduce one’s dependence on them. Homeopathic medicines do not work superficially but reach the core of the problem and focus on the root cause in the second phase of the treatment.

Safe and Non-Habit Forming Treatment

Since the medicines used in homeopathy are of natural origin, it treats cases of migraine with zero side effects. Homeopathic remedies offer relief in a very natural and safe way. The basic approach of these medicines is to stimulate or boost the body’s self-healing process to a level where the body can heal itself naturally. These medicines are safe to use for patients of all age groups.

The time it takes to cure any case of migraine depends on several factors. These include the duration of the complaint, its frequency and intensity. In addition, the response of the patient’s body to homeopathic medicines determines how long the homeopathic treatment needs to be continued for a complete cure.

Individualized Approach Towards Treatment

The basic underlying fundamental principle of homeopathy is treating every case following an individualized approach to get the best results. Homeopathy works wonders only when the medicine is prescribed as per the characteristic symptoms in every individual case and not just as part of a hit-and-trial method. For example, Belladonna, though is the most recommended medicine for migraine, may not help in all cases. For a headache triggered by sun exposure, Glonoine may be the best remedy, and in a case of nausea and vomiting along with a marked headache, Iris Versicolor may be the best medicine. Cases with ‘aura’ symptoms may need intervention with another medicine. So, proper consultation from a homeopathic physician with thorough knowledge of the subject is required, who will prescribe medicines after a detailed evaluation of the case.

Top 12 Homeopathic Medicines for Migraine

The top-ranked homeopathic medicines for migraine are Belladonna, Glonoinum, Iris Versicolor, Epiphegus Virginiana, Spigelia Anthelmia, Sanguinaria Canadensis,  Nux Vomica, Kali Phosphoricum, Natrum Muriaticum, Gelsemium Sempervirens, Sepia Officinalis and Bryonia Alba.

1. Belladonna – Top Medicine for Migraines

Though there are several medicines in homeopathy to manage migraine, Belladonna occupies the top position. I can bet this medicine will relieve migraine headaches. It is the best medicine to help relieve headaches with severe throbbing or pulsating pain. Besides, the patient reports a feeling of extreme fullness in the head along with a burst sensation felt in the head. Light seemingly worsens the headache. Noise may get unbearable. In some cases, exposure to cold air may trigger a migraine attack. In others, a head bath with cold water can result in migraine headache. Physically pressing the head is the only way one can get some relief.

When to use Belladonna?

This medicine can be administered when there is a throbbing/pulsating (beating with strong, regular rhythm) headache with a sensation as if the head would burst.

How to use Belladonna?

This medicine can be used in 30C potency two to three times daily, depending on the severity of the pain.

2. Glonoinum – For Congestive Headaches

Glonoinum is as effective as Belladonna for treating migraine with fullness and congestion in the head. Those who need it feel an excessive blood rush into the head. The head feels very large, as if it would burst. Patients who suffer are seen holding their heads tightly. The eyeballs seem to protrude. Extreme heaviness in the head along with unbearable heat is felt. Taking off what’s covering the head relieves the headache. Sleep also relieves one of a headache, while walking may aggravate it. Apart from congestive headaches, Glonoinum is a leading medicine administered for headache related to migraine triggered by sun exposure.

 When to use Glonoinum?

The use of Glonoine is highly recommended to manage congestive, bursting headaches triggered by sun exposure.

How to use Glonoinum?

One may ingest this medicine in 30 C potency one to three times a day, depending on the intensity of the pain. For using its higher potencies like 200C, one needs to consult a qualified homeopath.

3. Iris Versicolor – For Migraine With Acid Reflux

To manage headache with nausea, vomiting and acidity, no medicine does a better job than Iris Versicolor. Though some other medicines can be extremely useful, Iris Versicolor has to be the first choice. It is the best-suited medicine when acid reflux leads to a headache. For those who need, vomiting of a sour, acidic, bitter nature is observed. Bitter, acrid belching with heartburn (intense burning behind the sternum) and burning in the throat is felt. Other than heartburn, a burning sensation may be noted in any part of the alimentary canal. This medicine is also useful when cases of migraine begin with a blur in front of the eyes.

When to use Iris Versicolor?

It should be administered if migraine headache is accompanied by nausea, vomiting and acidity.

How to use Iris Versicolor?

This medicine works wonderfully in 30C potency that can be taken one to two times daily.

4. Epiphegus Virginiana– For Migraine Triggered By Mental Or Physical Exertion

To treat migraine triggered by exertion (mental or physical), Epiphegus is the best bet. It gives the best results when mental or physical exertion sets off the migraine episode. It is used when the slightest deviation from routine work brings on a migraine attack. Although it works for migraine on both sides of the head, comparatively better results are seen when the headache takes place on the left side. A peculiar accompanying symptom is increased salivation with constant inclination to spit.

When to use Epiphegus Virginiana?

Use of Epiphegus is especially suggested for migraine attacks triggered by either physical or mental exertion.

How to use Epiphegus Virginiana?

Its 30C potency one or two times daily is best to begin with. The potency is also administered depending upon the magnitude of the problem.

5. Spigelia Anthelmia – For Left-sided Migraine

Spigelia is undoubtedly the most effective remedy for migraine on the left side. In most of the cases, the pain begins in the back of the head (occipital region), radiates upwards and settles over the left eye. The pain is severe, pulsating and throbbing. A sensation of a tight band around the head is felt. Stooping worsens the headache. Severe pain in the eyeballs may be an accompanying factor. Also, eye movement worsens the pain.

When to use Spigelia Anthelmia?

It is the best choice for a left-sided headache that starts from the back of the head, goes upwards and finally settles over the left eye.

How to use Spigelia Anthelmia?

It is safe to use Spigelia 30C once or twice daily.

6. Sanguinaria Canadensis – For Right-Sided Migraine

Sanguinaria Canadensis works wonderfully to bring about relief if one has migraine on the right side. The characteristic symptom of administering this medicine is pain that starts in the back of the head (occipital region), and then goes up and sits right over the right eye. Lying down quietly in a dark room or sleeping brings relief. This medicine can also be administered when the headache starts in the morning, gets intense during the day and lasts until sunset. This medicine is especially helpful for migraines triggered by fasting (going without meals). Sanguinaria Canadensis is also a wonderful medicine for migraine among women during menopause.

When to use Sanguinaria Canadensis?

The key symptom of using this medicine is pain that begins in the back of the head, then travels up and settles over the right eye.

How to use Sanguinaria Canadensis?

It’s mostly recommended in 30C potency one to two times daily.

7. Nux Vomica – For Migraine With Gastric Issues

Nux Vomica is the best-suited medicine for migraine with gastric troubles. Migraines associated with indigestion, gas, and constipation show good recovery with the use of Nux Vomica. It is often seen that migraine headache gets triggered by particular food items. Nux Vomica is best suited when migraine triggers are from the intake of alcohol, coffee, and spicy food. The headache may be felt in any part of the head. The person feels the need to press the head against something for relief.

When to use Nux Vomica?

The characteristic feature for administering Nux Vomica is migraine linked to indigestion, gas and constipation.

How to use Nux Vomica?

Though this medicine can be used in both low and high potency, initially, 30C potency is the best to begin with. One may take Nux Vomica 30C two or three times a day. Avoid using its high potencies without consulting a qualified homeopath.

8. Kali Phosphoricum – For Migraine Due To Stress

To relieve oneself of stress-triggered migraine, one can use this medicine without a second thought. The unique indication for the use of Kali Phos is stress, tension, and worry that leads to headache arising from migraine. Such migraine headaches are common among students who undergo school or college-related stress. Exhaustion and weakness usually accompany the migraine in such cases.

When to use Kali Phosphoricum?

It is an ideal prescription for cases of migraine triggered due to stress, tensions and worry.

How to use Kali Phosphoricum?

The recommended dose of Kali Phos is 6X three to four times a day, depending on the intensity of the symptoms.

9. Natrum Muriaticum – For Migraine Associated with Menstrual Cycle

Some women may experience migraines specifically before or during menstruation. For them, Natrum Muriaticum is the best prescription and works extremely well. It mostly works if migraine headache feels like little hammers knocking on the brain. Another kind of headache that can be dealt with wonderfully with this medicine is when the headache starts with sunrise, continues through the day and vanishes after sunset. This is popularly known as the “sunrise to sunset headache”. It is also the most suitable prescription for migraine headaches among school girls or among girls who are anemic. It is also best advised if numbness or tingling sensation is felt in the nose, tongue or lips before the migraine attack.

When to use Natrum Muriaticum?

This medicine is administered to manage migraines triggered before or during the menstrual cycle and also when headache takes place between sunrise and sunset.

How to use Natrum Muriaticum?

Its 30C potency is the most frequently used potency that can be administered once or twice a day.

10. Gelsemium Sempervirens– For Migraine Preceded By Temporary Vision Loss

Gelsemium is well administered for temporary vision loss (blindness) that precedes onset of the migraine headache. Those who need it usually feel the pain in the back of the head (occipital region). A sensation of a band tied around the head is also felt. There is heaviness on the eyelids. There is excessive sensitivity to noise before a headache. This medicine can also be administered for a headache on one side accompanied by dim vision or double vision.

When to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

This medicine can be administered for cases of migraine with temporary vision loss (blindness) before the onset of the headache.

How to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

Use this medicine in 30C potency twice or thrice daily, depending on the severity and uniqueness of the symptoms.

11. Sepia Officinalis – For Headaches Affecting Alternate Sides

Sepia Officinalis is a useful medicine for headaches that may alternate from one side to the other and may worsen from being indoors or lying on the painful side. After a meal, one feels much better. The headache often occurs on a weekly basis or monthly basis. It is aggravated by mental exertion or shopping. A headache is frequently accompanied by vomiting, nausea, and aversion to the smell of food. The pain can be shooting or stinging in nature, sometimes extending upward or over the left eye, with a heavy or cold sensation on the vertex. Such headaches are often related to menstrual disturbances or hormonal changes.

When to use Sepia Officinalis?

This medicine can be used in cases of migraine where it characteristically affects alternate sides or when headache occurs periodically, every week or every month.

How to use Sepia Officinalis?

This medicine can be administered in 30C potency initially, once or two times a day. Potency can be raised to 200C or 1M but only after consulting a qualified homoeopath.

12. Bryonia Alba– For Headaches Worsening From Even the Least Motion

Bryonia Alba is a natural medicine sourced from the plant of “Wild Hops”. It is another highly effective medicine in cases of migraine, whether gastric, rheumatic or congestive in nature, that aggravate from any motion, even if one moves the eyes. The condition improves from absolute rest. Closing the eyes also proves beneficial in such cases. The headache gives a bursting or splitting sensation as if the head would burst. One also gets a sensation as if a hammer is being struck from within. There is marked pressure in the head and it gets worse if one stoops or sits. Pain is often felt over the left eye or in the occiput and may extend to the whole head. The patient prefers to keep absolutely still, as even the slightest movement may aggravate the pain.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

Bryonia should be administered in cases of migraine (gastric, rheumatic, or congestive headaches) that worsens from least movement and are relieved by absolute rest.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

Recommended dose for using this medicine is in 30C potency, twice or thrice a day, depending upon the intensity of the symptoms.

Causes Of Migraine

1. Migraines are believed to be triggered due to brain changes affecting nerve communication, and also originate from brain changes affecting blood vessels. 

2. Some believe that both these factors play a role. These changes send pain signals to the brain.

3. Other than these, a decrease in the level of brain chemical serotoninmay be another factor; research for confirmation of the role of serotonin in migraines is still ongoing.

4. Geneticsis also thought to play a role in migraine as persons having migraine often have a family history of migraine. About two-thirds of the migraine cases have a family history of migraine. If a person has one parent with migraine, then he/she has 50 per cent chance of acquiring the disease. Both parents suffering from migraine increases the risk to 75 per cent in their children.

5. In some cases, psychological conditionslike depression and anxiety are linked with migraine.

Signs and Symptoms of Migraine

The main symptoms related to Migraine are:

1. Headache – Mainly pulsating or throbbing in character and unilateral (affecting one side)

2. Nausea

3. Vomiting

4. Increased sensitivity to light and sound(Photophobia and Phonophobia)

5. Sensitivity to smell

6. Visual Disturbances (Blind spots and  zig-zag lines in front of eyes)

7. Vertigo or Dizziness

8. Difficult concentration

9. Eye Strain

10. Neck Pain

11. Fatigue and Weakness

12. Poor Quality Sleep

13. Balance problems(in cases of vestibular migraine)

14. Other associated symptoms- Stress, Gastric ailments (acid reflux, bloating and flatulence), dietary triggers (nuts, chocolates, coffee, processed food, etc.)

Stages Of Migraine

 Migraines typically progress through 4 stages, but they are not present among all patients:

Stage 1- Prodrome: This occurs hours or days before the actual headache. There may be mood changes, irritability and food cravings.

Stage 2- Aura: Some patients feel symptoms such as flashing before the eyes, blind spots, vertigo and photophobia before the onset of headache. This is known as “Aura”.

Stage 3- Headache: This is characterized by throbbing or pulsating headache, moderate to severe in its severity, often on one side of the head, accompanied by nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity towards light and sound.

Stage 4- Postdrome: It follows the headache attack phase. One may feel extremely exhausted and drained.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are migraines and a normal headaches the same?

No. Migraines and normal headaches are not the same. Migraine is a neurovascular condition where recurrent episodes of severe headaches occur and the headaches might be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or vision changes.

2. What is the meaning of Aura in migraine?

Aura is a warning sign before a headache, such as flashes of light, zigzag lines, blind spots, or tingling on the face or hands. Not all migraine patients get aura.

3. What are the triggering factors for migraine?

There are many triggers for migraine, some of them are: stress or emotional strain, lack of sleep or oversleeping, skipping meals, bright light, loud noise, mobile/screen overuse, hormonal changes and certain foods (chocolate, cheese, caffeine, junk food).

4. Is migraine life-threatening?

No, migraine is not dangerous. But it can affect the quality of life and rarely certain types need medical attention.

5. Can mobile and excessive screen time cause migraine?

Yes. Excess screen time can trigger or worsen migraines.

6.  Does migraine mean something is wrong in my brain?

No. Migraine does not mean a brain tumor, a stroke, or any other damage. The brain structure is normal — it is just functionally sensitive.

7. Why do I feel vomiting or nausea during a headache?

Because migraine affects the vomiting center of the brain along with pain pathways.

8. Why do I feel very tired after migraine?

Because migraine drains the nervous system. The “hangover” feeling is common.

9. What food items can I avoid to prevent migraine attacks?

One can avoid these food items such as chocolate, cheese, bakery & junk food, MSG, excess tea/coffee and avoid skipping meals.

10. Is migraine more common among women?

Yes. It happens due to hormonal changes. But men and children can also have migraines.

11.  What should be done when someone is having a migraine attack?

If one is experiencing a migraine attack, one should rest in a dark, quiet room, avoid screen & noise. One should apply a cold or warm compress and take the prescribed medicine.

12. What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my migraine?

One can maintain a healthy diet, take eight hours of sound sleep, avoid skipping meals, manage stress, maintain adequate water intake, and limit screen time.

13. How can homeopathy help with migraine?

Homeopathy aims at treating the root cause of migraine, reducing the frequency and intensity of symptoms, and reducing the dependence on painkillers. Homeopathy helps in the long-term control and cure of migraine.

14. Do painkillers help with migraine?

Painkillers can help with controlling the migraine headaches for some time, but frequent painkiller use can cause headaches due to medication overuse or rebound headache.

15. Can children and teenagers have migraines?

Yes. Migraine is common among children and teenagers also.

16. Are any tests required for Migraine?

Usually, no tests are required for migraine unless the doctor suspects another cause.

 

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Top Five Homeopathic Medicines to Treat Migraine – Part 2

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 219 Comments

Top Five Homeopathic Medicines to Treat Migraine – Part 2

Epiphegus for migraine headaches

A lesser known drug for migraine but does wonders if symptoms match. I can personally vouch for Epiphegus .I treated my cluster headaches with Epiphegus which would settle over my left eye. Epiphegus is very effective for cluster headaches. This drug has more affinity for left side. It is indicated when headaches come on with MENTAL EXERTION or MENTAL TIRE. Headaches that are triggered by going out in the sun or, shopping or any deviation from normal routine. Mainly headaches that are caused by overwork or fatigue, Epiphegus does wonders in curing them miraculously.

Nux Vomica for gastric Migraines

Gastric migraine is a new terminology that is being used in modern medicine nowadays. It refers to a condition where the headaches are accompanied by gastric disturbances. The gastric disturbances that are usually accompanied with migraine headaches are constipation (this could be in the form of ineffectual desire to pass stool; or not getting complete evacuations) bloating of abdomen or feeling of gas; or a feeling or an inability to release gas. Nux is also used for headaches that brought on by eating fatty, rich fried food. Alcohol consumption when leads to triggering of headaches are effectively treated with Nux Vomica.

Medicines mentioned here are for information purpose only. Kindly do not self medicate.

Top Five Homeopathic Medicines to treat Migraine part 1

 

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WHY MIGRAINE OCCURS

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 46 Comments

Why migraine occurs

Migraines, known to be one of the most common ailments of the nervous system, cause frequent headaches and at times other neurological symptoms such as tingling, numbness or weakness on one side of the body. However, initial symptom still remains occurrence of an aura (intuition that an attack is about to happen), such as a visual disturbance like bright spots or zigzag lines appearing before the eyes.

Now how does an aura begin? Well, it starts with temporary contraction of the vessels supplying blood to the brain. As soon as these vessels, tightly constricted till then, open up and a gush of blood flows through to the brain, a severe headache, mostly one-sided, follows. Though all migraines may not follow the same pattern, important is that these headaches occur after a person has passed through, rather than during, the times of stress, for example after an examination or some important interview.

FUNCTIONAL DISORDERS

Even as details about migraines are yet to be known, researchers point out that these severe headaches are caused by functional changes in the trigeminal nerve system, a major pain pathway in the nervous system. It may even result out of the imbalances in brain chemicals, including serotonin. The levels of serotonin, which plays a regulatory role for the pain messages passing through this pathway, drop during a headache. This, as per researchers, causes the trigeminal nerve to release substances called neuropeptides, which travel to the brain’s outer covering, known as meninges. Once it reaches there, blood vessels become enlarged and inflamed, resulting in headache.

COMMON TRIGGERS

Migraine may result out of several causes, but the most common triggers that have been witnessed include hormonal changes, stress, intake of certain foods, sensory stimuli, changes in the sleep-wake schedule and intense physical exertion, including sexual activity. On the hormonal front, the exact relationship between them (hormones) and headaches is not clear yet, but researchers believe fluctuations in estrogen trigger headaches in many women, who have history of migraines. Females often report headaches immediately before or during their periods, and this corresponds to a major drop in estrogen. Others have an increased tendency to develop migraines during pregnancy or menopause. Hormonal medications, such as contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, may also worsen migraines.

Then, stress at work or home can instigate migraines. Overuse of caffeine; certain seasonings; fermented, pickled, marinated, canned or processed food; skipping meals or even fasting can trigger migraines. Alcohol, especially beer and red wine, too can be a cause. Bright light and sun glare can produce head pain. So can unusual smells, including scents such as perfume and flowers, and unpleasant odours, such as paint thinner and secondhand smoke. Besides, environmental changes like in weather, season, altitude level or barometric pressure and certain medications can also aggravate migraines.

TIME FOR MEDICAL ADVICE?

Despite being a chronic disorder, migraines often remain undiagnosed, and as a result untreated. As soon as a a person witnesses the first symptoms of a severe headache, he or she should track the attacks and contact a doctor. If one has a history of headaches, advice from the doctor becomes even the more compulsory. One should definitely contact a medical practitioner if an abrupt, severe headache like a thunderclap occurs; if headache with fever, stiff neck, rash, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or trouble speaking is there; headache after a head injury persists or a chronic headache that gets worse after coughing, exertion, straining or a sudden movement attacks a person.

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MIGRAINE TREATMENT WITH HOMEOPATHY

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 28 Comments

Migraine Treatment

migraine treatment with homeopathy…by Dr. Vikas Sharma

I am a 30-year-old homemaker, suffering from recurrent headaches for the last six years. The headache begins with disturbance in vision. I start seeing two objects instead of one, floating patterns, flashing lights, which disappear after some time. This is followed by a severe headache lasting hours and even days. The headache usually starts from the back of the head and neck and spreads to the entire head. These attacks occur once or twice a week-and are accompanied by extreme weakness. The headaches are more frequent when my sleep pattern is disturbed. The CT Scan and MRI and complete eye check-up, have detected no abnormality. Please suggest a homeopathic medicine.

MRS TINA, Sector 16, Chandigarh.

These are the symptoms of ‘Classic Migraine’. Classic migraine headaches refer to those migraine headaches which are preceded by a visual disturbance called an aura. This type of migraine is different from common migraines (no ‘warning or aura) or complicated migraines (associated with non-visual neurological symptoms such as disturbances in speech, movement, or sensory perception). Migraine is a common kind of chronic headache, affecting about six out of hundred people. Migraines most commonly occur in women between the ages of 10 and 46 years. In some cases, migraines appear to run in families. Classical migraine accounts for about one-sixth of all migraines. The symptoms of migraine may occur as a result of changes in blood vessel diameter. Initially, constriction or spasm of blood vessels may decrease blood flow to these areas of brain. This can result in neurological symptoms other than headaches, including., visual changes, difficulty in speaking, weakness or numbness in one part of the body, tingling sensations etc. Minutes to hours later, the blood vessels enlarge, resulting in severe headache. Classical migraine specifically refers to those migraines preceded by visual symptoms.

Migraine treatment with Homeopathic medicines Gelsemium, Cyclamen, Irish, Natrum Mur, Kali Bichrome are very effective in treating classic migraine. As you have mentioned diplopia (seeing two objects instead of one) as one of your symptoms, you may take Gelsemium 200, one dose a week, a for a period of one month. There are clear hereditary factors and environmental triggers contributing to migraine causing abnormal blood vessel caliber and inflammation, resulting in the ensuing symptoms. Attacks of migraine headache may be associated with allergic reactions, bright lights, loud noises, physical or mental stress, changes in sleep patterns, smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke, missed meals, alcohol, caffeine, hormonal fluctuations (related to menstrual cycle or use of birth control pills), and other conditions. Even in the absence of a clear factor that provokes migraine attacks, changes in lifestyle are useful. Many patients may benefit from a regular sleep schedule and exercise. Avoiding tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol also proves beneficial.

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Migraine headaches treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 4 Comments

I am talking of a a little heard medicine in homeopathy ‘Epiphegus’ . It has a wonderful role in treating migraine headaches. I have personally seen a great number of chronic migraines being treated with this medicine within months.the key indication for the use of epiphegus are headaches that are brought on by least exertion wether mental or physical; Any deviation from normal routine can start a headache. It is more used when  left side is more predominantly affected. A very important symptom that i have noticed in patients who become better with Epiphegus is that they have a sudden strong urge to eat before the headache starts.

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Migraine and its Homeopathic Treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 73 Comments

 Migraine -get rid of it

131570282_513262e8fd_m  Migraine headaches are associated with very severe pain in the head This head ache occurs in an unpredictable repetitive pattern. The severity of pain and the unpredictability associated with them can make life very miserable and disabling. Migraines are much more common in women and are more common between the ages of 10 and 46.

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