Migraine attacks differ from typical headaches. You may feel a pounding headache, nausea and be sensitive to light or sound. You’ll do anything to get rid of a migraine or attack.
Reduce migraine symptoms without using drugs with natural remedies. These home remedies may prevent migraine attacks from occurring or reduce their severity.
You may need to treat migraines with over-the counter (OTC), or prescription medication. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.
Natural remedies for migraine headaches
Acupressure
Acupressure is the application of pressure to certain parts of the body. These points are stimulated to relieve pain.
Acupressure can be administered by professionals or individuals can do it at home. It is important to first follow the instructions of a professional.
The LI-4 point is a useful acupressure for headaches. It is located between the base and index fingers of the left hand. The LI-4 point can be relieved by applying circular pressure with the opposite hand, which is firm but not painful.
Diet
Some people find that a change in diet can help prevent migraines. It is possible that certain foods trigger migraines in some people.
Examples of common foods that trigger migraines include:
Processed meat
alcohol
chocolate
caffeine
Keep a symptom journal and look for patterns to help identify migraine triggers.
Essential oils
The essential oil of lavender may relieve headaches, stress and anxiety. In a literature review from 2021, it was found that 10 different types of essential oils contain components that can help relieve migraine symptoms. This includes lavender, peppermint and chamomile.
These conclusions seem to be confirmed by some clinical trials. In a 2020 triple-blind study with 144 participants, the use of basil oil on the skin reduced migraine pain intensity and frequency.
More clinical trials are needed to determine which essential oils and how best to use them.
You should be aware that certain essential oils may cause harm to children, asthmatics, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. Consult your doctor before using essential oils.
Only diffusers should be used to inhale essential oil. When applying topically, dilute the essential oil with a carrier at a safe concentration.
It is important to keep in mind that, although research indicates that essential oils have health benefits, the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate or monitor the quality or purity of these. Before using essential oils, a person should consult a health professional and research the brand’s quality. Always do a test patch before using a new essential oils.
Stress management
Seven out of ten migraineurs experience symptoms triggered by stress. Stress can even trigger migraines.
It is important to avoid situations that could cause stress. Journaling, meditation, or exercise can be helpful. You can also try listening to music or practising breathing techniques. Stress management classes can be helpful for some people.
Avoid certain foods
Diet is a key factor in preventing migraines. There are many foods and drinks that can trigger migraines.
Foods containing nitrates include hot dogs, deli foods, bacon and sausage
chocolate
Cheeses that contain the naturally occurring compound Tyramine such as blue cheese, feta, Parmesan and Swiss
Alcohol, particularly red wine
Monosodium glutamate is a flavor enhancer that can be found in many foods.
Ice cream and iced drinks are examples of foods that can be very cold.
Processed foods
Pickled foods
Beans
Dry fruits
Cultured dairy products such as buttermilk and yogurt
Some people may find that a small amount of caffeine can help ease their migraines. Some migraine medicines contain caffeine. Too much caffeine can cause migraines. This can also cause a severe withdrawal headache.
Keep a food diary every day to determine which foods or beverages cause migraines for you. Keep a daily food journal and record what you eat.
Go into a dark room.
Bright lights can trigger migraines. If you notice that your symptoms are worsening or you sense an attack approaching, find a room with low light where you can rest and wait until the symptoms or attacks stop. A specific spectrum of green can be used to alleviate an asthma attack, according to studies.
Noise can cause migraine attacks.
Loud noises or constant, loud noises may trigger migraine attacks. If noises are causing symptoms to worsen or triggering an attack, find a quiet area away from other people and external sounds.
Avoid strong smells.
Osmophobia is a common headache symptom. Avoid perfumes, pungent food, gasoline and chemical smells as they can cause migraine attacks or worsen existing ones.
Reduce the temperature and keep cool.
If you feel a migraine coming on or are experiencing one, lower the temperature. Fans and air conditioning units can help you stay cool.
Massage
Massage the muscles of the neck and shoulders to relieve tension and migraine pain. In addition, Massage can also reduce stress.
Professional massages can be beneficial. If you want to do a self massage for migraine, try rolling a tennis ball against a wall while standing.
Ginger
Ginger has been shown to reduce nausea, which can be caused by a variety of conditions including migraine. The ginger may provide pain relief for migraines. A review of studies from 2020 found that ginger could have beneficial effects.
In addition, ginger is a powerful treatment for migraines, but more research is required to determine its effectiveness.
Yoga Classes in Your Area
Yoga incorporates breathing, meditation and body postures in order to promote health and wellbeing. In a 2015 study, yoga was found to reduce the intensity, frequency and duration of migraine attacks. It is believed to reduce anxiety, relieve tension in areas that trigger migraines, and improve vascular function.
Researchers concluded that yoga can be a beneficial complementary therapy to treat migraines.
Sleep Well
Sleep regularly to prevent migraines. Too much or too little sleep can cause headaches and reduce your pain threshold. Try to sleep 7 to 8 hours every night and go to bed and get up at the same times each day.
Water
Dehydration may trigger migraines in some people. Water consumption throughout the day can help to prevent migraines. Water in small amounts can also help with migraine symptoms such as nausea.
Compresses
Many people find that applying cool or warm compresses to their head helps reduce migraine pain.
People with circulatory disorders, diabetes or certain skin conditions should avoid extremes in temperature.
