Migraines are painful headaches that can disrupt daily life and get in the way of daily activities, yet numerous natural treatments exist that can provide relief and help prevent future episodes, including diet changes, essential oils and acupressure.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) may help some individuals reduce their migraine attacks. It can be found in dark-green vegetables, whole grains and nuts; those living with migraine should consume an equivalent amount of caffeine daily to prevent withdrawal headaches.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil contains menthol, which can help ease migraine headache pain by relieving other symptoms like nausea and light sensitivity. Additionally, its soothing scent may promote calmness and relaxation. Peppermint can be added to carrier oil and applied directly onto forehead or temples at first sign of an attack or inhaled through a diffuser for use during an attack.
Eucalyptus oil has proven itself effective at treating sinus issues that lead to migraine headaches. Its aroma can open nasal passages, ease congestion and relieve tension – it’s even possible to use Eucalyptus as a sinus rinse or mixed with carrier oils for chest massage to provide additional relief from congestion and tension.
Essential oils offer an all-natural alternative to many over-the-counter and prescription medications, but their safety profile does not match that of pharmaceutical drugs, so it is crucial that their usage be carefully observed. All essential oils should always be diluted prior to application onto skin; children, pregnant women, or those with preconditions should never use essential oils directly on themselves or others.
Lavender oil
Essential oils offer a natural remedy for migraines and headaches without the adverse side effects associated with conventional drugs. Not only can essential oils ease discomfort and symptoms without adverse side effects, they may also help relieve stress – one of the primary triggers of migraines – decongest blocked sinuses, improve blood circulation and decrease inflammation.
Lavender oil is an effective natural sedative that can be used to promote sleep and alleviate tension. Dilute it with carrier oil before inhaling directly or adding to a steam bath for best results; alternatively it may be applied directly onto temples and forehead during an episode of migraine headache.
However, if strong scents are one of the triggers for your headaches, it would be prudent to avoid strong ones in order to prevent attacks. Any alternative treatment should first be discussed with your physician; they will help identify its source and may refer you to a neurologist if necessary.
Ginger powder
Studies have proven ginger root’s effectiveness at alleviating migraine-induced pain and nausea. Furthermore, it helps increase serotonin levels in the brain like prescription triptans do – so this remedy could potentially provide long-term relief.
Do not add dried or fresh ginger directly to hot water; rather, add it as an additive in order to create a tea with dried or fresh ginger that you can sip when your headache starts and throughout the day to lessen symptoms of migraines. Sweeten it by adding honey if necessary for flavor, though be sure to inform your physician of any possible adverse side effects or interactions if taking other medications or supplements at the same time.
Rosemary oil may help treat migraines by applying it topically or inhaling its aroma directly. As an anti-inflammatory and concentration booster, rosemary oil supplements come in capsules, tinctures or liquid extract forms for use.
Feverfew
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is an herb widely recognized for providing natural migraine and headache relief, as well as helping ease rheumatoid arthritis, treat dermatitis, prevent blood clots and potentially combat cancer. Feverfew contains parthenolide which works by blocking open blood vessels that lead to migraine pain and inflammation – typically taken as tea or capsule/tablet form.
Studies conducted on feverfew showed that those taking it experienced less frequent and intense migraines than those who didn’t, though more studies are necessary to confirm these results. Feverfew can be purchased in pill, liquid or capsule forms containing at least 0.2% parthenolide for best effectiveness; its usual daily dosage ranges between 100-300 mg compared with taking fresh leaves which may cause mouth ulcers or irritation; most prefer taking capsule or tablet forms of feverfew instead.
