Migraines are a particularly severe, debilitating kind of headache that often keeps people laying in a dark room for a day or more in pain. These kind of headaches often run in families and many people experience warning signs, such as flashing lights, several hours or days before the pain begins. Researchers aren't sure exactly what causes migraines, except that it involves restriction of the flow of blood to the brain, followed by relaxation of the blood vessels. Medications are available from your physician to ease the pain of migraines, however, many have unwanted side effects. Natural remedies may help you get rid of and prevent migraines.
Step 1
Have acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years in China as an alternative treatment for several illnesses and symptoms, including migraines. The treatment involves the insertion of very fine needles in areas around the body, theoretically, to rebalance the flow of energy channels. The procedure is relatively painless and lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.
Some individuals may have to have regular treatments to maintain the therapeutic effect. Acupuncture has not been shown to have side effects except in individuals who are pregnant, have a pacemaker or have blood clotting problems.
Step 2
Go to a chiropractor. Generally, chiropractic care involves the identification of joints that appear out of alignment and manipulating them back into place for full range of motion. A 2001 study by Northwestern Health Sciences University found that chiropractic manipulation was reported to be as effective as prescription medication for chronic headaches, including migraines. Chiropractic manipulation is noninvasive, requires no medication and is generally covered by most major health insurances.
Step 3
Take supplements such as 5-HTP, magnesium and riboflavin. 5-hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP, is an amino acid that is converted by your body into serotonin, a neurotransmitter. Abnormal serotonin levels in the blood vessels, according to the University of Maryland, correlate with the incidence of migraines and certain prescription migraine medications affect serotonin levels.
Magnesium occurs naturally in your body, however, people who experience migraines have been found to have low levels of magnesium. Supplementing with 200 to 600mg daily may help decrease the incidence of migraines.
Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is a water-soluble vitamin that has been shown in some studies to reduce how often you experience migraines and how long they last. Supplementation of 400mg daily may help decrease the severity of symptoms and duration of your incapacity.
Step 4
Eliminate foods in your diet that have been shown to trigger migraines in some individuals. The foods vary for each person, but many people appear to have sensitivity to chocolate, cheese, peanut butter, caffeine, some fruit and other foods. Take note of the foods you consume on a calendar and note when you experience a migraine. After a few months, you might see a pattern emerge that can help you identify the foods causing your migraines. In addition, food allergies can also cause migraines so if you suspect you have an allergy to a specific food, eliminate it from your diet for several months and note any difference in the frequency of your migraines.
Step 5
Take herbal extracts. Several herbs possibly help relieve migraine symptoms but butterbur and feverfew are most commonly used. Both are also available in capsule form but should not be taken without consulting your physician, as they can interact with other medications. The amount of extract is specific, based on individual symptoms, so it's also best to consult a herbalist or naturopathic physician for your individual dosage.
