There is a headache, and then there is a migraine. The latter is more severe and presents with pain, nausea, and increased sensitivity to sounds and lights. A migraine attack is unbearable and requires immediate attention to ease the symptoms. Pharmaceutical interventions are available, but given the chronic nature of migraines and the burden of taking medications each time an episode occurs, they are not as popular. Holistic treatments are more sustainable over the long term and help manage migraines by reducing their severity or duration. These are some natural remedies and common medicinal herbs you should use.
Identify Your Trigger Foods
Certain foods and drinks trigger migraines. These include chocolate, cheese with tyramine, alcohol, foods with nitrates such as hot dogs and deli meats, foods with MSG, processed foods, dried fruits, cold foods such as ice cream, and cultured dairies like yogurt and sour cream. Caffeinated drinks are reliable for dealing with migraines, but use these in moderation as too much caffeine can cause a withdrawal headache.
Lavender Oil
As you buy medicinal herbs, include lavender oil in your cart. Research has shown Lavender therapy to be prophylactic, meaning it has the potential to reduce or prevent incidences of migraine attacks. Inhale the oil directly, or mix with a carrier oil and drub on your temples.
Acupuncture
This ancient practice has applications in treating migraines as well. Manual acupuncture is beneficial in relieving headache symptoms, with research demonstrating its potential to reduce episodes from six a month to around three.
Feverfew
Feverfew is among herbs with medicinal benefits helpful in combating inflammation and can treat migraines. Though studies into this particular application are few, existing ones show that the herb offers relief over placebos.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint is among medical herbs with a wide array of applications. Oil extracted from the plant helps with headaches, particularly tension headaches. These benefits extend to migraines, as demonstrated by a recent study that showed the topical application of the oil reduced migraine episodes by forty percent.
Ginger
Ginger works as an analgesic and antiemetic, and besides its culinary uses, it is among the most widely used medicinal plants. It relieves pain and nausea caused by migraines, making the episodes less debilitating.
Magnesium
Inadequate intake of magnesium causes headaches and migraines. Supplementing magnesium oxide is nearly as effective as preventative medication such as valproate sodium, and it carries no side effects. Sources of the mineral include peanuts, sesame seeds, almonds, sunflower seeds, eggs, and dairy.
Stress Management
Stress is one of the best-understood migraine triggers, accounting for over 80 percent of patients. Practicing stress management significantly reduces episodes and is a recommended long-term strategy. Techniques include meditation, deep breathing exercises, music therapy, counseling, and exercise.
Butterbur
When you buy herbs online, one of the most popular options is butterbur. It thrives in the northern hemisphere, growing in the US, Asia, and continental Europe. It prevents migraine attacks. Use the pyrrolizidine alkaloid-free butterbur as it is the safest. Finally, ensure you are adequately hydrated throughout the day, and get restful sleep, ideally at the same time each night.
Sarah Madsen is a master herbalist and Reiki master teacher. She believes in the body’s inborn ability for self-healing. Please call 808-280-5085 or email sarah@mauiherbalist.com to book a 30-minute herb and nutrition consultation today.
