Migraine symptoms are challenging to live with. Some individuals are exploring natural treatments for migraines which could aid them in controlling the pain they are experiencing; however, these should be approached carefully; read up on each approach thoroughly and choose practitioners wisely.
Some natural treatments include using ice packs and cold drinks, while others advise sleeping in a dark, quiet room.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil can be inhaled from a diffuser or applied directly to temples or neck during a migraine attack, its menthol content helping ease tension and alleviate pain, while decreasing nausea associated with migraines – helping you feel more balanced overall. You could even add lavender oil drops for added relaxation!
Feverfew is an ancient flowering herb used for centuries to treat coughs, skin conditions, arthritis and headache. Recent research on feverfew for headache has shown mixed results; though it could reduce migraine attacks if taken in supplement form (PA-free only).
Before making any decisions regarding home remedies for migraines, always consult your physician first. They can evaluate the frequency and severity of your migraine attacks and propose an individualized treatment plan tailored specifically to you.
Butterbur
Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) has been shown to alleviate migraine symptoms such as throbbing pain, nausea, dizziness and light/sound sensitivity. It works in several ways to ease migraines including by regulating blood flow and blocking triggers.
Petasites contains natural chemical compounds known as petasins that help desensitize neuronal channels that register migraine pain. Furthermore, this medication blocks CGRP protein stimulation that causes dilation of blood vessels as well as pain. Furthermore, Petasites has other anti-inflammatory effects by blocking activity of Cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme that promotes inflammation.
Unfortunately, butterbur is toxic if left untreated, and contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which may damage liver tissue. As such, it’s essential that PA-free butterbur supplements like Petadolex be selected; their processing has removed these harmful chemicals. Before beginning a supplement regimen it’s also wise to consult with a healthcare practitioner beforehand.
Essential oils
Essential oils have been demonstrated to aid migraine sufferers by alleviating symptoms like nausea and light sensitivity. Essential oils can be applied topically or aromatically; when inhaled aromatically they stimulate brain smell receptors to provide relief while also improving stress responses and mood. Some of the best essential oils for migraine relief include Bergamot, Lavender Rosemary Peppermint Eucalyptus oils.
Peppermint oil’s menthol helps relax muscles and ease pain, so diluted applications should be used on forehead and temples at any sign of tension or headaches. Eucalyptus oil reduces sinus pressure and congestion that contribute to headaches; for this reason it should always be combined with another carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond to prevent skin irritation.
Use a diffuser to spread its aroma around the home, or apply some drops directly onto your neck and temples. Before beginning any new treatment or supplement, always consult your physician first, and conduct a skin patch test prior to using any new treatments or oils on the market.
Ginger powder
Danish woman suffering from migraines found relief using ginger powder. At the first sign of headache, she mixed 1/4 teaspoon with water and consumed it to combat her migraine, reporting its dissolution within 30 minutes. Studies show ginger helps alleviate migraine pain according to National Headache Foundation; additionally it’s an antihistamine with anti-inflammatory properties as well as being natural antihistamine and natural antihistamine properties; though double blind experiments should be performed to verify these findings.
Ginger root oil contains chemical compounds which help relieve inflammation, nausea and vomiting. Furthermore, serotonin levels increase, making this an effective supplement to combat early stage migraine attacks.
Ginger supplements and tea can be found at most grocery stores and pharmacies; you can even order online. Ginger essential oil soothes nausea when used as a vaporizer; alternatively you could try ginger lozenges which are widely available both from pharmacies and food stores.
