Almost 30 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches, according to "Natural Health" magazine. Migraine headaches are also known as vascular headaches because they are thought to be caused by the changes to the blood flow in the the vessels of the head. Certain activities and stimuli "trigger" migraines in sufferers. Triggers include sleep irregularities, barometric pressure changes, stress, direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, hormonal fluctuations, loud sounds, strong odors, and a wide range of foods. They include chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and processed foods. A variety of herbal treatments are available to treat migraine headaches, according to website HolisticOnline.com. Always consult with a medical professional prior to using herbs to treat migraines.
Butturbur
Butturbur is an herb that is said to alleviate migraines though its action as a stabilizer of the cells that produce histamine, which triggers migraines. This treatment can be especially effective for those migraine sufferers who also have allergies, according to Debra Brammer, N.D., dean of naturopathic medicine at Bastyr University. Products such as Petadolex that are free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are potentially toxic compounds, are recommended by "Natural Health." The recommended dosage of butturbur is 3 to 4 100-mg capsules per day. Ask your doctor if it is OK to take butturbur.
Feverfew
Feverfew is a well-known treatment for alleviating migraine headaches, according to "Natural Health." The mechanism of action may involve reducing inflammation and stabilizing the neurotransmitter that regulates the pain response, according to Brammer. Feverfew has been used as a migraine treatment in folk medicine. The course of treatment for feverfew must last at least several weeks before a migraine patient will register any positive effects. As a result, the treatment is considered preventive and will not reduce the pain if taken when the migraine is already in progress. The recommended dosage is three 100 mg capsules daily, according to HolisticOnline.com. Don't take feverfew without talking to your doctor first.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is an herb that regulates blood circulation and may be an effective treatment for regulating the blood flow irregularities and pain associated with migraine headaches, according to HolisticOnline.com. The herb is thought to inhibit the platelet activating factor. Initial treatment with ginkgo biloba often causes minor headaches, but they generally abate within the first week of treatment. The recommended dose is from 120 mg to 240 mg daily. A standardized extract with 24-percent ginkgoflavone glycosides is recommended by HolisticOnline.com. Check with your doctor before you start taking ginkgo for any reason.
