The Migraine - Gall Bladder Connection
Chinese Medicine's Meridians Reveal Possible Treatments
Mar 16, 2009
For centuries if not millennia, Chinese physicians have treated many cases of migraine syndrome with applications to the gall bladder meridian. Using acupressure and acupuncture, relief has been found for a variety of manifestations of this oftentimes debilitating condition. Many naturopathic doctors (NDs) are finding that treating the gall bladder through nutritional therapy and suggesting lifestyle changes such as an increase in activity relieves migraines and in some cases eliminates them.
Older Understanding
Eastern medicine has built a foundation of knowledge over thousands of years based on the flow of life energy, or Qi (or Chi, or Ki). Qigong and other Eastern modalities all use a common map of meridians and points to identify illness and bring relief from pain, and often the point that provides that relief is not obviously tied to the point of original discomfort. In reference guides such as “Taiji Qigong”, a series of physical motions and forms, the fifth form is used to release Qi blocked in the gall bladder and liver specifically for the treatment of migraines (among other things).
Even as recently as the 19th century, Western doctors made the connection between migraine sufferers and what we know today to be symptoms of sluggish gall bladders. They observed that people who had simple diets and were generally active (what was referred to at times as “menial taskers” or “manual laborers”) did not suffer from migraines at all, so far as they could determine.
Applying Knowledge
Noticing a connection between headache-type migraines and gall bladder issues can provide a key to both relief and prevention. Many people experience migraines following the removal of their gall bladders even if they had no regular experience with them prior to surgery. The suggestion is that by addressing the diet first and avoiding foods that would normally require the gall bladder to digest takes the pressure off of the liver to perform double-duty. While the exact mechanism is still not clear, investigations are ongoing. If the gall bladder is still present, detoxifying the organ under the care of a qualified health professional could bring rapid relief, especially for chronic migraine sufferers.
Increasing physical activity seems to be the second element to this puzzle. While moving around in the midst of a migraine is often excruciating or even impossible, increasing activity through exercise programs or yoga can reduce the amount of time that one spends debilitated by a migraine. Regular and pronounced movement helps the body flush toxins and keeps the organs from getting blocked with sludge and debris.
Warnings and Disclaimers
This article is purely informative and is not meant to diagnose, cure, prescribe or otherwise treat any illness. Please consult with a qualified health professional before undergoing any treatment. Those with serious liver and gall bladder issues especially should only modify their diet and behavior under the care of a qualified health professional.
Further Reading:
- Sandra F. Feder, Migraine Symptoms: Time of Day May Be a Clue
- Acupuncture Medicine, Omura, Y.; Courier Dover Publications 2003
