Life with migraine headaches can be challenging, but naturopathic medicine offers solutions that have proven successful at decreasing triggers, symptoms and frequency of migraine headaches.
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) and butterbur (Petasites hybridus) have each been linked with reduced migraine frequency. When purchasing butterbur, be sure to purchase only PA-free versions; unprocessed varieties could contain harmful alkaloids which could damage liver cells.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil (oleum menthae piperitae) has long been studied as an all-natural treatment for migraines. Numerous studies have demonstrated its efficacy for relieving symptoms associated with migraines and treating tension-type headaches as effectively as other pharmaceutical remedies such as acetaminophen or aspirin.
Peppermint oil contains menthol, which has been proven to relax muscles and calm the nervous system, increasing blood flow to ease migraine-related discomfort and pain. Furthermore, its antibacterial properties make it effective against herpes simplex virus infection.
Peppermint oil applied topically can be an effective treatment for migraines when used correctly, when properly diluted. Topical preparations containing up to 10% essential oils have proven their efficacy during clinical trials by decreasing pain and nausea while simultaneously improving mood. Researchers consistently stress the importance of supplementing traditional treatments rather than replacing them altogether.
Lavender oil
As more research is completed, essential oils may prove helpful in alleviating migraine symptoms. They can be used at home; however, for best results use in conjunction with other therapies aimed at eliminating triggers, managing stress levels, and maintaining regular sleeping patterns. It is best to speak to healthcare providers regarding developing a plan encompassing complementary treatments as well as medications.
Peppermint oil contains an ingredient called menthol that acts like a coolant and may help relieve pain by misleading nerves in your brain to think you’re experiencing cooling sensations; this may help ease discomfort. Furthermore, mint oils contain enough menthol to reduce nausea symptoms as well. Other natural treatments for migraines include ginger tea, taking ginger capsules or chewing raw pieces of ginger upon first sign of migraine occurrence; in addition to drinking plenty of water as dehydration is another known trigger of headaches.
Ginger
Migraine sufferers frequently turn to ginger root to relieve both their headache and the nausea associated with an attack. Ginger can be taken in many forms including fresh, tea, candy or supplements.
Ginger is an anti-inflammatory that contains pain-relieving compounds called shogaols. Research suggests it may be as effective as migraine medications for alleviating migraine pain and nausea, and could even reduce light sensitivity associated with some attacks.
Ginger oil can be found at most health food stores and should be applied directly onto pressure points in your wrists (where blood vessels reside) and along the stomach for nausea relief. Mix it with essential oils that promote healthy digestion like fennel, coriander or peppermint for added support of digestion. Ginger oil products with an integrated combination of essential oils may also contain it – you could apply some to cloth or gauze pad and inhale during an attack!
Caffeine
Migraine sufferers must attempt to avoid triggers like fatigue, stress, food and hormonal fluctuations that could set off an episode; however, migraines can sometimes appear suddenly without any apparent cause. A combination of home remedies and lifestyle changes like exercise, diet and getting enough restful sleep may be effective in both preventing and treating migraines.
Diaries are an invaluable way of tracking patterns and triggers that contribute to headaches, and providing vital data that can guide decisions regarding lifestyle changes or natural remedies that could reduce pain.
Drinking water when experiencing migraine symptoms can help, since dehydration is a primary trigger. Some may find relief in drinking ginger tea or chewing on ginger candy, while studies have demonstrated taking B2 and CoQ10 supplements may decrease migraine frequency over time, though results take several weeks to appear. Before trying any supplements for migraine relief, consult with your healthcare provider as some can have side effects or interact with existing medication that you take for your condition.
