Natural remedies may provide effective solutions to combat migraine attacks and relieve their associated pain and other symptoms, in conjunction with doctor-prescribed medication. These remedies could even help prevent future episodes altogether!
Feverfew (Petasites hybridus) is an herbal remedy proven to lower migraine attacks by both frequency and severity, as well as decreasing the use of painkillers. Regular feverfew usage has also been shown to decrease painkiller use.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil can be mixed with carrier oils and applied topically or inhaled directly from a steaming cup of water for topical application or inhalation. Peppermint contains menthol which works to ease pain relief while relieving muscle tension that can contribute to migraine headaches.
Rosemary oil can be applied directly to the skin or inhaled. Studies have demonstrated its ability to relieve stress and enhance circulation, helping relieve migraine pain. Furthermore, its presence of menthol helps numb pain by blocking nerve fibers.
Eucalyptus oil can also be applied directly to the chest for inhalation or added to hot water for inhalation, to open sinuses and relieve congestion caused by many headache medications, while relieving nausea and dizziness symptoms.
Ginger
Ginger root, tea, or extract can offer relief to migraineurs suffering from headaches and nausea that often accompany migraine attacks. Indeed, one study concluded that ginger reduced both pain associated with migraine attacks as well as medication-induced nausea and vomiting in two randomized controlled trials.
Ginger has multiple health advantages, from reducing inflammation and constricting blood vessels, to curbing nausea and vomiting while increasing serotonin levels.
Add 1 teaspoon of ginger powder to hot water to make a soothing tea, or take a ginger supplement when experiencing migraine symptoms. Ginger lozenges are another easy and palatable option available at pharmacies or food stores; alternatively you could try massaging diluted ginger oil onto painful areas like temples and neck.
Butterbur
Butterbur, a perennial plant native to marshy areas in Europe and Asia, has long been used as a folk remedy for migraines. While anecdotal evidence and smaller studies support its use as a natural supplement, multiple large-scale clinical trials support its efficacy as a cure.
Butterbur root extract may help prevent migraine attacks by blocking the release of CGRP, a protein known to trigger pain. Studies conducted with double-blind and placebo-controlled trials have demonstrated its efficacy at both decreasing the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Note, however, that some butterbur products contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can be toxic to liver function and could potentially lead to cancer. To protect yourself against liver toxicity and cancer risk, only choose butterbur supplements marked or certified as PA-free; usually only the roots contain PAs while other parts like leaves and flowers may be hazardous.
Acupressure
Acupressure, which involves stimulating specific points on the body with pressure, may help ease migraine pain and nausea, making it an effective and cost-effective alternative to prescription drugs. Before trying acupressure on yourself or pregnant women, be sure to speak to your healthcare provider first as placing pressure in certain places can cause injury; always seek their advice beforehand! It’s also wise not to place too much strain on areas with open wounds, varicose veins or swelling as this could be dangerous during treatment.
Avoid foods high in histamine, which may trigger headaches in people sensitive to them (24). Histamine is an active chemical present in our immune and nervous systems and should be limited when eating aged cheese, fermented food products, beer wine or cured meats as this could reduce migraine episodes significantly.
Maintain a regular sleep schedule, with seven to nine hours of rest each night as recommended by doctors, to help decrease migraine frequency. Getting sufficient rest may also help decrease their severity.
Scalp massage
Taken professionally or as an at-home treatment, scalp massages may help ease migraine discomfort. They may relax tense muscles, reduce stress levels and enhance restful nightly rest – plus lower stress hormone levels and improve your mood!
Migraine headaches can be debilitating and make life more challenging, but you can find relief by identifying triggers, making lifestyle adjustments, and using natural remedies.
Keep a headache diary to help identify what triggers your migraines and how to best avoid them in future. Speak to a physician if frequent migraines arise. In some instances, medication may be necessary; but behavioral and lifestyle modifications are often more effective treatments.
