Migraines are a type of severe headache usually characterized as a throbbing pain on one side of the head. Migraine symptoms can also include sensitivity to light, smell, and sound, nausea or vomiting, and reduced vision. Migraines impact approximately 1 in 5 women and 1 in 15 men. Patients with chronic migraines should seek medical attention and medication, including options like botox for migraine pain relief; however, there are also many natural therapies that can be effective in preventing and reducing migraine pain:
1. Lavender oil
Inhaling the scent of lavender essential oil has been shown to increase human serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in mood control, sleep quality, and pain sensation. As such, using a diffuser or adding a few drops of lavender oil to bath water may reduce the severity and frequency of migraines.
2. Acupressure
Acupressure is a centuries-old Chinese treatment in which pressure is applied to specific points on the body to improve health. While this therapy can be effective for many different disorders, many migraine patients specifically swear by acupressure for reducing migraine attacks and relieving pain. Many patients also suggest applying pressure using the forefingers to the temples or back of the head when you feel a migraine coming on. Hold for a few minutes to experience relief. To help prevent migraines, try using this method every day at regular times.
3. Yoga
Believe it or not, a regular yoga practice has been shown to help combat migraines by stretching the muscles and increasing blood circulation in the body. Pay close attention to poses and movements that allow your muscles to relax between holds and try to practice them regularly. Poses that stretch the legs, hips, neck, and back are especially good for migraine prevention, as are breathing exercises and deep relaxation.
4. Biofeedback
This mind-body therapy can help reduce migraines by training patients to control the stress in the body when a migraine occurs. This method is a popular way to reduce pain and anxiety in people with chronic pain or other health issues that trains patients to sense telltale changes in pressure, temperature, and muscle tone and react appropriately. Biofeedback for migraines can calm the nervous system and prevent a migraine from developing.
5. Migraine diet
Many migraine patients find that certain food triggers contribute to the frequency and severity of their migraines. For instance, avoiding certain migraine-promoting foods—such as red wine and beer, chocolate, aged cheese, cured meats, smoked fish, and yeast—can significantly reduce migraine onset. To learn what your specific food triggers are, keep a food diary to record any side effects following meals. Then moderate or eliminate trigger foods completely to gauge your response. By avoiding foods that trigger your migraines, you may be able to significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
6. Feverfew
Available in capsule form, this herb has been found to be effective for reducing many types of pain, including migraine headaches. Moreover, feverfew is low-cost and can be used safely in the long-term. However, if you wish to purchase it online, it might still be helpful to do additional research or ask a healthcare professional beforehand.
