Migraines can be hard to treat and many people turn to natural solutions in search of relief from migraine headaches.
Butterbur (Petasites hybridus), one such herbal product, has proven successful at mitigating migraine attacks. Butterbur can reduce both frequency, duration, and intensity of migraine headaches.
Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil can provide an effective non-drug pain reliever for migraine sufferers. Its cooling sensation helps ease headache pain while its muscle-relaxant properties promote relaxation and mitigate associated discomfort. Applying diluted peppermint oil directly to temples, forehead, or neck area may alleviate pain as well as reduce associated symptoms, such as nausea and sensitivity to light.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is well-known for its relaxing and stress-relieving properties, which may help soothe anxiety or tension that often worsens migraine symptoms. Furthermore, inhaling lavender oil may even decrease intensity by altering neurotransmitters involved in pain processing.
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is an herb commonly used to promote sleep and relieve anxiety – two common triggers of migraine attacks. Although research is limited, valerian has been demonstrated to act on neurotransmitters that influence mood modulation and relaxation, helping reduce both frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Ginger
Ginger root contains antiemetic properties that may help relieve nausea and vomiting associated with migraine headaches, while simultaneously increasing serotonin production in your brain – increasing serotonin is thought to reduce inflammation and restrict blood vessels, potentially ending migraine attacks altogether. You can enjoy raw ginger or supplement it as capsules or gel available at pharmacies and food stores; for those having trouble swallowing pills try ginger lozenges!
Ginger may cause mild side effects such as an upset stomach and irritation to the mouth and tongue, though these typically are not serious. If you are allergic to it, avoid it completely.
Butterbur is another natural remedy to ease migraine symptoms, available from most herbal shops and online retailers as a supplement or tea. A 2021 medical research study demonstrated its efficacy, producing results comparable to sumatriptan prescription medication.
Cold compress
Migraine pain may be dulled with cold therapy, as its constricting action on blood vessels reduces pain signals to the brain and releases of neurochemicals that intensify it, according to Dr. Najib. He suggests placing an ice pack directly on your head or neck during a migraine attack while still protecting skin directly; an icy cloth or bag of frozen vegetables are other alternatives available for use.
Sleep and diet both play an integral role in how often migraines strike. Strive to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, eating regular meals throughout the day. Avoid foods which might trigger headaches like aged cheese, chocolate and caffeine.
Exercise helps reduce inflammation and relax you, so it could reduce migraine frequency. Some individuals find relief in massaging diluted lavender, peppermint or basil oils into their temples or using these essential oils in a diffuser.
Light therapy
Research indicates that green light therapy, an innovative nonmedicinal treatment option, can effectively alleviate migraine pain. This form of light therapy specifically targets the visual cortex in the brain to alter how pain is perceived; traditionally researchers used various colors of lights for treating insomnia and depression but only recently has green light been discovered to help with migraines.
Migraine patients can often experience light sensitivity known as photophobia. This makes it hard for migraine sufferers to function normally during an attack and should also be avoided to help alleviate headaches caused by noise or certain foods that trigger migraine attacks. Therefore, those living with this condition are encouraged to keep a food diary to help determine what could be triggering migraine attacks.
Physical exercise can also help relieve migraines. Physical activity releases chemicals into your body that help block pain signals while also decreasing stress and fatigue – two major contributing factors to migraine attacks.
