Break Free from Migraine Using These Natural Treatments
A migraine as most people know is not a headache or a kind of a headache. It is a neurological condition that affects a lot of people and could be genetic. If you or your parents have it, it is viable that your siblings or your children may have it.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO)(1) “A migraine most often develops after puberty and is seen in the age group of 35- 45 years. Women are more prone to it than men, usually by a factor of 2:1 because of the hormonal influence.
”While they are several over-the-counter medications that can be used to give you instant relief, these drugs are often ineffective after a while as your body develops a tolerance to the drug. Moreover, these drugs in most cases are dangerous to the body, and you may develop hepato-toxicity that is liver damage. In America, the Migraine Research Foundation(2) estimates that at least 12% of the population suffers from a debilitating migraine.
Table of Contents
How to Cure Migraine
- Foods
- Alternative Therapies
- Herbal Remedies
- Essential Oils
- Supplements
CURE 1: Foods
1. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
This tropical root is not only a fragrant spice, but it also houses several medicinal benefits that could help you cure/keep several diseases at bay.
Why Does it Work?
Ginger is a known anti-prostaglandin that prevents the chemical compound prostaglandin from reaching the brain and causing muscle contraction and pain. It also has anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and antihistamine actions, which may reduce the intensity and time interval of migraines.
Recently, studies(3) were conducted on ginger and migraine comparing it alongside the prescription drug sumatriptan in 100 patients with migraine. Two hours after receiving the treatment, the severity significantly decreased in both of the patient groups. However, the side effects were found to be more severe in the sumatriptan group.
How to Use Ginger for Migraine?
Alice Peart, author of The Complete Guide to Migraine Headaches, strongly recommends having ginger tea daily as it helps to cope with symptoms of migraines. Peart suggests that you have a daily intake of 4-5 grams of ginger to help promote better health conditions. You could either directly ingest it or consume it in the form of tea.
It is recommended that you have your ginger tea twice a day for best results. Also, if you decide to make it a habit to ingest it directly try to stick to only a single clove per day, as anything above that could harm your digestive process.
2. Salmon (Salmo salar)
This meat can not only fill your stomach, but it could also help you keep your migraines at bay and help cure it as well. Salmon is one of the best foods that helps cure migraine as it is rich in omega 3 fatty acids.
Why Does it Work?
Omega 3(4) has a number of health benefits including reducing the risk of cancer, reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and improving the health of your arteries and helping you control your Migraine attacks.
Salmon also has a balanced omega 3-6-9 fatty acid profile, making it an excellent anti-inflammatory food. Additionally, salmon is also loaded with minerals that alleviate swelling. Salmon even contains high levels of B vitamins, including Riboflavin, which is clinically proven to be a helpful tool for managing frequent migraine attacks.
How to Use?
You could directly roast the meat in a pan and consume it during meals. You could add in vegetables as well. It is recommended that you steam the vegetables and refrain from using salt on either of them.
How Much to Use?
You could have two servings of salmon every day, adding up to an amount of 300-400 grams. It is to be noted that you shouldn’t load up on it as well, as it could affect your body drastically. Limited and controlled consumption would help you control your migraine.
3. Dark Chocolate
Isn’t it amazing, that chocolate could help you cure your debilitating migraines? Although this is only in the case of dark chocolate. A substantial amount of dark chocolate during your migraine attack could help you relieve and alleviate your pain and symptoms.
Why Does it Work?
Dark chocolate contains a considerable amount of magnesium – the “relaxation mineral.” as it is aptly termed. Magnesium is a commonly used mineral for migraine management, as it is found in all of your body tissues, including the brain.
It is vital that you supplement your body with magnesium for relaxation and proper sleep. It is also imperative to learn that stress drains magnesium from your body.
A few people still consider dark chocolate to be a trigger. However, several studies(5) have dismissed this fact and pointed it to psychological reasons.
How to Use?
According to several researchers and scientists, several people experience a hankering for chocolate 4-24 hours prior to their attack. You could consume a little up to 30-40 mg before your attack. During an attack, you could have a small bar of chocolate to soothe your brain and help it relax.
How Much to Use?
Although a set of rigid dosage for the use of dark chocolate isn’t specified, it is strongly recommended that you consult with your doctor/physician before starting this regimen.
There are several therapies that are out of the bounds of conventional medicine yet are truly effective for treating migraines. These therapies require you to find a place that provides you the kind of service. It would be easier considering the rapid growth of such treatment centers that help cure/control a lot of medical conditions.
CURE 2: Alternative Therapies
1. Biofeedback Therapy
When you meet a friend, you instantly wave a Hi. This is a voluntary function that you control with your mind. In this situation it doesn’t mean that your brain isn’t functioning, they are several functions that are simultaneously happening such as breathing, digestion, blood pressure, temperature etc.
All these functions are controlled by your nervous system involuntarily.However you can’t push your mind and make digestion faster. The process of these involuntary functions being controlled to a level by your mind is called Biofeedback.
Why Does it Work?
There are many different types and forms of biotherapy, the one that is used to treat migraine is one of the simplest methods wherein several reinforcement techniques are used to control your mind in a way that it enables you to handle and control your attacks. Although the research on this method is still cloudy, there are several people who have sworn by this therapy.
How to Use?
Go to your nearest therapy center and have them put you through this therapy. However, it is suggested that you have a word with your physician/doctor prior to the therapy, to have a better understanding of this therapy.
The whole treatment plan could span over months. However, this is a variable and a general estimate. It could vary from person to person as it depends on several factors. Duringthe consultationn, you would be told about the duration and required sessions during the consultation.
2. Acupuncture
Long before western medicine came into existence, there was a time where people relied on traditional medicine and one of the hidden jewels that is Acupuncture. It has been used for ages to cure/prevent several severe health conditions. Owing to its benefits, it has also gained a lot of traction in recent times.
Why Does it Work?
Acupuncture follows the principle of relaxing several pressure points present throughout the body with the use of sharp needles. There are several pressure points in the body, that when applied pressure on, help in relaxation. According to (6)conducted, it was also concluded that acupuncture is one of the most viable options to treat migraine.
How to Use Acupuncture for Migraine
Go to your nearest therapy center and have them put you through this therapy. However, it is suggested that you have a word with your physician/doctor before you go, to have a better understanding of this therapy.
How Much to Use?
The whole treatment plan could span over months. However, this is a variable and a general estimate. It could vary from person to person as it depends on several factors. During the consultation, you will be told about the duration and required sessions for the therapy.
3. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care essentially involves cracking your bones, to help relieve stress and to make the body feel more relieved and relaxed. However, most people are not aware that chiropractic care is an emerging discipline of medicine.
Why Does it Work?
There is a specific technique/procedure in chiropractic care that is used on patients suffering from migraine. This procedure is referred to as Spinal Manipulative Treatment.
A study(7) conducted to verify the effectiveness of this therapy involved a 51-year-old woman who was subjected to this procedure. She had severe migraines with aura and complained about the related pain.
She stated that it lasted for about 14 hours on an average and she wasn’t using medication for the same. After a 6-month Chiropractic care, she expressed noticeable changes in her migraine and reportedly didn’t have a single episode of the same.
How to Use Chiropractic for Migraine?
Go to your nearest therapy center and have them put you through this therapy. However, it is suggested that you have a word with your physician/doctor before you go, to have a better understanding of this therapy.
How Much to Use?
The whole treatment plan could span over months. However, this is a variable and a general estimate. It could vary from person to person as it depends on several factors. You would be told about your duration and about how regularly you’d have to attend this therapy.Herbs are naturally occurring substances which originate from plants or plant derivatives.
They have shown immense potential in curing a lot of diseases effectively including cerebral disorders such as headaches, migraine, etc. Herbal remedies are easily accessible and don’t bear any side effects. Some of the best herbs that help deal with migraine include
CURE 3: Herbal Remedies
1. Butterbur (Petasites hybridus)
Butterbur extract is derived from the butterbur plant. It is a perennial shrub found in Europe, Asia and parts of North America. It grows in wet, marshy soil, and damp forests. Butterbur has long been used as an herbal treatment for migraines, headaches, asthma, urinary tract infections, wounds, and allergies. Mostly the butterbur extract is made from the leaves, bulbs, and roots of the plant.
Why Does it Work?
Butterbur extract has active substances called Petasin and Isopetasin. Although scientists and researchers are not able to accurately point out the reason as to why it helps cure migraine, it is believed that they alleviate inflammation. The physiological changes hypothesize the prevention of migraines and reduce migraine headaches(8). According to studies, it was also concluded that butterbur is an effective way to treat migraine
How to Use?
Butterbur is available in many different formulations, including capsules, powders, tinctures, and teas. You could choose any of these. However, it is advised that you consult your physician/doctor prior to using this regimen.
Note: Pregnant women are strongly recommended to refrain from using this remedy as it could cause complications. Also, check for the ‘PA- Free’ tag to ensure it is devoid of any chemicals that could harm your body.
How Much to Use?
It depends on the severity of the migraine and the kind of brand that you are using. However, in a general sense, it is recommended that you start with a low dose like 40 mg for a day when you experience a migraine attack. You could then increase the dosage as suited. However, before doing so, it is recommended that you consult with your physician.
2. Feverfew
Feverfew is a plant that is native to Asia Minor and the Balkans but is now common throughout the world. Used for ages since the Greeks, this plant is being used to cure and control several medical conditions like psoriasis, migraine, headache, digestive disorders, nausea, and vomiting.
Why Does it Work?
Feverfew has several chemical compounds that play a crucial role in controlling and preventing migraine. However, one of the most crucial ones is parthenolide, that is an anti-prostaglandin and helps in inhibiting the formation of prostaglandins. Thereby reducing stress and inflammation in the brain and helps to promote blood circulation and reduces the severity of the migraine.
How to Use Feverfew for Migraine?
Feverfew is available in many different formulations, including capsules, powders, tinctures, and teas. You could choose any of them that appeals to you. However, it is advised that you consult with your physician/doctor prior to using this regimen. Note: Pregnant women are strongly recommended to refrain using this remedy as it could cause complications. It is also recommended that people who suffer from internal bleeding or any other forms of bleeding disorders skip this remedy.
How Much to Use?
Its usage depends on the severity of the migraine and the kind of brand that you are using. However, in a general sense, it is recommended that you start with a low dose like 50 mg a day when experiencing a migraine attack. You could then increase the dosage as suited, however before doing, so it is recommended that you consult your physician prior to adhering to this regimen.
3. Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)
This tea has been used since generations in Asia and parts of Japan. It is extracted from the same plant that produces oolong tea, black tea, and white tea. The distinguishing feature is how the leaves are treated. They are instantly dried and powdered to prevent oxidation of the leaves.
Why Does it Work?
Green tea consists of several antioxidants(9) that flood the bloodstream when ingested into the body and help in the reduction of the oxidation stress, thereby causing vasodilation and promoting increased blood flow to the brain and alleviating pain and swelling.
How to Use?
Green tea is available in many different formulations, including capsules, powders, tinctures, and teas. You could choose any of them that appeals to you. However, it is advised that you consult your physician/doctor before using this regimen.
How Much to Use?
Its usage depends on the severity of the migraine and the kind of brand that you are using. However, in a general sense, it is recommended that you start with a low dose like 2 cups a day when you experience a migraine attack. You could then increase the dosage as suited. However, before doing so, it is recommended that you consult your physician and check if you could adhere to this regimen.
Supplements for migraine prevention that could go a long way in helping you keeping them in check. Supplements form the adjuvant therapy, i.e., you need to follow this treatment alongside the primary treatment. Supplements form the backbone for your recovery since deficiency of nutrients and minerals could lead to severe migraines and a weakened immune system, making your body prone to several debilitating health conditions.
CURE 4: Essential Oil
Wondering how essential oils will work for migraine? Read on ahead to know more. These oils are extracted from barks, flowers stems and other living parts of plants and have a lot of beneficial effects for humans as they help in the reduction of swelling, alleviating pain and also help in increasing the circulation in and around the blood.
1. Peppermint Oil
Research conducted by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health(NCCIH)(10), suggests that peppermint oil is the best home remedy for migraine. Peppermint oil is commonly used for the treatment of the common cold, cough, sinus infections and migraines.
Why Does this Work?
Peppermint oil is a well-known muscle relaxant(11); this essential oil helps you control the blood flow in your brain, opens up the sinuses and improves oxygen flow so you could feel more relaxed. Its active ingredient menthol actively helps in lessening the intensity of acute migraines.
How to Use?
Ideally, it is recommended that you inhale this essential oil directly, you could directly take sniffs from the bottle during the day. You could also add 3-4 drops of the oil in your humidifier and place it in your bedroom while you are sleeping. Additionally, you could also do massage with peppermint oil to get rid of migraine.
How Much Peppermint Oil to Use for Migraines?
Although a rigid set of dosage for the use of peppermint oil isn’t specified, it is strongly recommended that you consult with your doctor/physician before starting this regimen.
2. Lavender Oil
This oil is used extensively to treat a lot of conditions and is now an integral part of aromatherapy. It is also used in massages, sauna, and alternative clinics as it has proven potential to relax the brain.
A recent study conducted on lavender oil and its migraine busting properties has shown that 92 people of the 129 people who inhaled lavender oil during a migraine episode reported to having some degree of relief. Lavender oil is known to help increase blood circulation to the brain and aids in the relaxation.
How to Use?
Ideally, it is recommended that you inhale this essential oil directly, you could take sniffs from the bottle during the day. You could also add 3-4 drops of the oil in your humidifier and place it in your bedroom while you are sleeping. Additionally, you could also add this to your massage oil or sip on some lavender tea to get rid of that migraine.
How Much Lavender Oil to Use for Migraines?
Although a set of rigid dosage for the use of Lavender oil isn’t specified, however, it is strongly recommended that you consult with your doctor/physician before starting this regimen.
3. Cannabidiol Oil (CBD Oil)
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the 120 substances extracted from the cannabis plant. Although derived from the marijuana plant, it contains few traces of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that produces a high/euphoric state of mind. It implies that this oil has no/negligible psychoactive effects. Cannabidiol oil is known to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, and it is a promising treatment for migraines.
Why Does it Work?
As the pathophysiology of headaches is not understood, so are the health benefits of CBD oil. There are no conclusive studies that indicate the benefits of using CBD oil for migraine However, studies were conducted to test the efficacy of marijuana for migraines, and it was concluded that it could reduce the severity and in some subjects was able to prevent migraines. However, this is not exclusively conducted on CBD oil, and hence there has been ambiguity on its working.
How to Use?
Ideally, it is recommended that you inhale this essential oil directly, you could directly take sniffs from the bottle during the day. You could also add 3-4 drops of the oil in your humidifier and place it in your bedroom while you are sleeping. Additionally, you could also add this to your massage oil or take CBD oil pills to get rid of that migraine.
How Much Cannabis Oil to Use for Migraines?
Although a set of rigid dosage for the use of CBD oil isn’t specified, it is strongly recommended that you consult your doctor/physician before starting this regimen.
CURE 5: Supplements
1. Magnesium
Magnesium is a natural mineral that helps the body keep blood pressure stable; it promotes heart health; it also regulates nerve and muscle function. Deficiency of magnesium could spell out headaches and migraines. Magnesium deficiency also triggers aura migraines. Aura is described as a visual disturbance that occurs at the onset of an attack.
Why Does it Work?
Research has stated that magnesium supplementation in the body not only decreases the severity of a migraine, but it also prevents the migraine attacks. It is hypothesized that magnesium is required for nerve transmission and a lack of it could cause migraines. Hence supplementing the body with magnesium could help stop migraines.
How to Use?
Magnesium supplementation is very simple and can be used right from the container. Although it is strictly advised that you check with your doctor/physician before you do so.
How Much Magnesium for Migraines?
The American Migraine Foundation (AMF)(12)suggests a supplement of 400-500 mg of magnesium daily to prevent migraines. However, it is suggested that you start with a lower dosage and then increase it.
2. Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin)
Vitamins are an essential requirement and also an essential part of our diet. Deficiency of vitamin B-2 could not only disrupt your bodily functions but could also cause severe migraines in the body.
Why Does it Work?
Although there isn’t any clear consensus on the workings of riboflavin on the brain, however, it is hypothesized that riboflavin energizes and boosts the metabolism of nerve cells, thereby keeping migraines at bay. Research(13) suggests that riboflavin does help the patient keep migraines at bay. However, there is a dosage conundrum. Using a higher dose close to 400mg could disrupt your bodily functions.
How to Use?
Riboflavin supplementation is very simple and can be had right from the container. Although it is strictly advised that you check with your doctor/physician before you do so.
How much vitamin b to use for migraine?
Ideally, it is recommended that you stick to a 100mg dose daily and then increase the dosage of your medicine as per the severity of your attack. However, before doing so, it is recommended that you consult with your physician before following e this regimen.
3. Fish Oil Supplements
Fish oil, as the name implies, derives from fish. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, which has demonstrated to have a positive impact on heart and can protect against strokes and heart diseases.
Why Does it Work?
Omega 3(14) fatty acids have many health benefits including reducing the risk of cancer, reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and improving the health of your arteries and help you control your migraine. Several researches have been conducted to test the efficacy of this drug, and in a double-blind, cross-over study spanning over two months, it was concluded that fish oil has a significant impact on controlling/curing migraines.
How to Use?
Fish oil supplementation is very simple and could be easily followed. Although it is strictly advised that you check with your doctor/physician before you do so.
How Much Fish Oil to Use for Migraines?
Ideally, it is recommended that you stick to the dosage available on the container and then increase the dosage as per the severity of your attack. However, before doing so, it is recommended that you consult with your physician before adhering to this regimen.
Foods To Eat
The Association of Migraine Disorders(15) created a list of “migraine safe foods” to guide a person’s food choices so as to help prevent migraines. These foods generally do not contain preservatives, yeasts, flavorings, and other substances that could be potential migraine triggers, such as nitrites and phenylalanine.
| # | Food Groups | Foods To Eat |
| 1 | Bread, Grains, And Cereals (Carbohydrates) | Most Cereals, Except For Those Containing Nuts, Dried Fruits, Or Aspartame
Plain Or Sesame Seed Bagels Quick Bread, Such As Pumpernickel Or Zucchini Bread Most Plain Pretzels And Potato Chips Unflavored Crackers, Such As Saltines Or Club Crackers White, Wheat, Rye, Or Pumpernickel Bread From A Store |
| 2 | Meats, Nuts, And Seeds (Protein) | Fresh Beef, Chicken, Fish, Lamb, Pork, Turkey, Or Veal
Poppy Seeds Pumpkin Seeds Sesame Seeds Sunflower Seeds Without Natural Flavors |
| 3 | Salad Dressings And Sauces (Condiments) | Homemade Dips That Use Fresh Ingredients Without Artificial Flavorings
Homemade Ranch Dressings Oil And Distilled White Vinegar Salad Dressings |
| 4 | Vegetables And Fruits | Fresh Fruits
Fresh Vegetables Preservative-free Bagged Lettuce Examples Of Vegetables To Eat Include Peppers, Zucchini, Fresh Potatoes, Carrots, And Cauliflower. |
Also Read: Natural Remedies to Quickly Obviate Headaches
Triggers for Migraine
Scientists after conducting extensive research have identified five main trigger categories for migraines, one of which is different food types. The other four categories are:
- Sensory stimulation- Photostimulation; Bright lights, certain smells, smoke, and repetitive noises can all trigger migraines.
- Hormones. Changes in hormone levels that occur due to the menstrual cycle can trigger migraines, as can some hormonal changes during pregnancy.
- Stress. Stress, intensive exercise, illness, or unusual sleep habits may trigger migraines.
- Changes in the environment. Changes in atmospheric pressure, the season, and even storms may trigger migraines.
Having a migraine is a colossal hassle not only is it mentally taxing it also affects one’s life and the people around them in different ways.
These home remedies for migraines are one of the best ones that have been curated, and if you follow them religiously, you wouldn’t have the ‘migraine’ anymore.
Additionally, it is also strongly advised to consult with a physician if these remedies are not working for you.
