In Eastern Medicine, migraines are probably due to deficiencies in the functions of the liver, kidneys and spleen.

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Good flow of sufficient oxygen (energy) blood and lymph, as well as a balance of the aspect of "heat temperature" (linked to heat and dryness) and the aspect of cold temperature (linked to coldness and moisture) are required for good health.

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The liver harmonises the emotions, regulates the circulation of internal energy and stores blood. When the liver is weak - due to insufficient blood or negative emotions, such as anxiety, fear, anger or depression - it will slow down our internal energy and blood circulation.

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When energy has stagnated for a prolonged period in the liver, it will create "fire" or heat and dryness there. These will go up to the head and trigger a migraine with distending pain in the head, eyes and ribs, and insomnia.

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The kidneys produce marrow to fill up the brain. When the kidneys are weak - due to a weak constitution and chronic diseases - and unable to produce sufficient marrow, it will cause a headache with aching pain in the knees and loins, dizziness and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

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The spleen absorbs and converts nutrients from food into "active internal energy and blood. When the spleen is weak - due to tiredness, irregular meals or a poor diet such as cold, oily and spicy food and alcohol - it will transform the nutrients into phlegm and "dampness" instead.

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When these go up to the head, the person will develop a headache with an oppressive sensation in the head and chest, nausea and a poor appetite.

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When an "internal energy" and blood are insufficient, external pathogenic (disease-causing) factors such as "wind", "cold", "heat" and "dampness" can invade the head and trigger a migraine.

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For instance, "wind" and "cold" can trigger a migraine with aches all over the body, chills or fever and stiffness of the neck. "Wind" and "dampness" can trigger a headache accompanied by a feeling of heaviness in the head and body.

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With bodywork, acupressure, cupping (placing heated cups on the skin to enhance stagnant energy and blood circulation) and blood and lymph cleansing can help improve your condition by strengthening your organs and dispelling the pathogenic factors.