Migraines are headaches that affect sufferers on an ongoing basis. The headaches vary in length; some last for hours, others for days. Migraines are often preceded by flashes of light, tingling in appendages and vision blockages. Symptoms that often accompany migraine headaches include nausea, sensitivity to light and vomiting. The condition is manageable but cannot be cured. Herbs have been known to improve the condition as accompaniments to prescribed medications or as sole treatments.
Feverfew
Feverfew belongs to the sunflower family and has been used for centuries as a traditional remedy for headaches, among other uses. Feverfew contains an active compound called parthenolide, which calms smooth muscle spasms that are responsible for migraine headaches. In Europe, feverfew became popular in the 1980s as natural treatment for migraine headaches. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking feverfew daily for chronic migraine headache.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo is an ancient tree species whose leaves contain active compounds that are well regarded by the scientific and traditional medical communities. The primary actions of ginkgo for treating headaches include the herb's ability to improve blood flow to the brain by decreasing platelet aggregation and providing antioxidants that protect the brain cells from toxins, according to nutritionist Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing."
Peppermint
Peppermint was first transported to the United States by Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower. The herb has had a long history as a symbol of hospitality. The scent of peppermint is pleasant and tends to cause a relaxing effect. It may relax blood vessels that cause migraines when applied to the temples and forehead, according to Balch.
Butterbur
Butterbur derives its name from its original use --- its leaves were used to wrap and help preserve butter. Since the Middle Ages butterbur has been used to treat a variety of illnesses, including the plague. The active compounds in butterbur, petasins, are known to have calcium channel blocking effects that results in alleviating migraine headaches, according to Drugs.com.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Feverfew
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginkgo Biloba
- The Epicentre: Encyclopedia of Spices: Mint
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Butterbur
- Drugs.com: Butterbur
