Migraines can cause extreme pain, nausea, dizziness, fatigue and visual disturbances lasting up to 72 hours and many symptoms linger even after the worst pain subsides. Making lifestyle changes such as avoiding caffeine, tobacco and alcohol, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep can help prevent attacks. Your doctor may even prescribe medications to combat migraines and reduce their intensity. Alternative remedies, including herbs and supplements, may also provide relief from migraines if taken correctly.
Butterbur
Butterbur (Petasites hybridus), a small herb native to Europe and Asia, may help prevent and eliminate migraines. A study published in the December 2004 edition of "Neurology" found that patients taking at least 75 mg of butterbur extract per day experienced a 48 percent reduction in migraine attack frequency after a treatment period of four months. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 50 to 75 mg of a standardized butterbur extract twice per day to help prevent migraine headaches. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take butterbur.
Feverfew
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), a perennial herb in the sunflower family, is a traditional herbal remedy for migraines. Recently, scientific studies have found that it may help prevent and treat these painful headaches. A systematic review published in the December 2000 edition of "Public Health Nutrition" examined several studies of the herb and concluded that feverfew is likely effective in the prevention of migraines. Doctors recommend taking 50 to 80 mg per day to ward off migraine attacks. Women who are pregnant or nursing and individuals taking blood thinners should not take feverfew.
Magnesium
Oral magnesium sulfate supplements may reduce the frequency of migraines, as sufferers often have low levels of the mineral in their bloodstream. One study, published in the June 2008 edition of "Magnesium Research," found that oral supplements of the mineral are beneficial in preventing migraines without aura. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 200 to 600 mg of magnesium per day to prevent all types of migraine headaches. Side effects may include diarrhea and lower blood pressure.
Other Treatments
Numerous other alternative remedies exist, though scientific evidence for their efficacy is lacking. Traditional herbs used to treat migraines include ginger, dong quai, willow bark, gingko biloba and devil's claw. Supplements suggested for the treatment of migraines include vitamin B12, coenzyme Q12 and melatonin. Acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, massage and homeopathy may also offer benefit for sufferers of these debilitating headaches. Always consult a physician before trying any new treatment for migraines, particularly if you're currently taking prescription medications.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Migraine Headache
- PubMed: Petasites Hybridus Root (butterbur) is an Effective Preventive Treatment for Migraine
- PubMed: The Efficacy and Safety of Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): An Update of a Systematic Review
- PubMed: The Effects of Magnesium Prophylaxis in Migraine Without Aura
- Mayo Clinic: Migraine Alternative Medicine
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