10 Natural Remedies to Deal with Migraines
Migraines are severe headaches that are often accompanied by nausea, pounding pain in the head, and sensitivity to light and sound. For some people, migraines last for only a few hours, while others may be affected for a few days. There is no cure for this condition, but you can surely avoid the triggers, try some natural remedies for migraines to manage it, and reduce the severity:
1. Acupressure
It is a practice of applying physical pressure to the pressure or acupuncture points of the body with the fingertips to improve blood flow and relieve pain. This alternative therapy is used to cure many ailments, and it is one of the best natural remedies for migraines. However, it is advised to get acupressure done by an expert only.
2. Peppermint oil
The menthol in peppermint oil is a great migraine reliever. You can apply some on your temples and forehead before sleeping for relief from the pain.
3. Ginger
It is known to ease nausea of any form, and it can be mixed with a little honey and lime juice and eaten in small amounts throughout the day.
4. Yoga
This form of exercise is relaxing and soothing, and it also helps in reducing migraine attacks. It relieves anxiety and tension and enhances vascular health. Additionally, it is an ideal method of removing toxins from the body as it involves deep breathing and meditation.
5. Adequate water intake
It has been found that chronic dehydration is a cause of headaches and migraines, so it is important to keep yourself hydrated with water or any other fluids throughout the day.
6. Essential oils
They are highly concentrated liquids that have aromatic compounds. They have significant therapeutic benefits and are one of the most effective natural remedies for migraines. You can use them topically in a diffuser or apply some on your temples and forehead.
Peppermint and lavender essential oils are especially useful for headaches. Peppermint essential oil relieves the symptoms of tension headaches, while lavender essential oil is effective in alleviating the pain due to migraines. You can apply the latter to your upper lip or inhale the aroma.
7. Herbal supplements
Butterbur and feverfew are helpful herbs for relieving headaches. They are effective in lowering the frequency of migraine attacks, but you need to take them for at least three months before the effects show.
8. Magnesium
For many, a magnesium deficiency can trigger a migraine, and studies suggest that magnesium oxide supplements are effective for preventing migraines with aura. They could also help with menstrual-related migraines. Besides, eating foods rich in magnesium like almonds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, eggs, oatmeal, and milk is one of the most helpful natural remedies for migraines.
9. Massages
One of the best natural remedies for migraines, a good body massage is more than just relaxing. It improves sleep quality and reduces stress, anxiety, heart rate, and cortisol levels, reducing the frequency of migraines.
10. Cool packs
Ice packs are good for reducing pain related to migraines. You can simply place an ice pack on your forehead, neck, or scalp to alleviate pain.