Migraine headaches can lead to extreme pain that may last for hours or days. Some migraine headaches can be so severe that they can even lead to nausea and vomiting. According to MayoClinic.com, some migraines are accompanied by auras that may include vision changes, flashes of light and the sensation of pins and needles in a leg or arm. Herbal therapies such as those made with feverfew and ginkgo biloba may help prevent or reduce the frequency of migraine headaches. Always talk with your doctor if you suffer from migraines before using herbs as an alternative remedy.
Causes
The exact causes of migraines are not completely understood; however, doctors believe that environmental factors and genetics both contribute to them, according to MayoClinic.com. However, one of the leading causes of migraines is due the constriction of blood vessels in the brain. Women may develop migraines due to changes in hormone levels before or during menstruation. Medications, certain foods, stress, sleep changes and bright lights may also trigger these painful headaches.
Feverfew
Feverfew is an herb that has been used for many years to treat arthritis, migraines and fevers. The active compound in feverfew called parthenolide, helps to relieve smooth muscle spasms as well as prevent the blood vessels in the brain from constricting, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The university states that feverfew may be taken before the onset of a migraine in doses of 100 to 300 mg of standardized feverfew containing 0.2 to 0.4 percent parthenolides up to four times per day. The recommended dose of feverfew for children is one third of the adult dose. This herb is not recommended for use in children under two years of age.
Ginkbo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is commonly used to enhance memory and treat circulatory disorders. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginkgo biloba helps dilate blood vessels which in turn can improve blood flow. However, ginkgo biloba may cause minor headaches that usually subside within the first week of use. For general cardiovascular function and improvement, the university suggests taking 120 mg of gingko biloba standardized to contain up to 32 percent flavonoids and up to 12 percent terpenoids in divided doses per day.
Recommendations
People that have migraines accompanied by auras are at an increased risk of stroke, according to MayoClinic.com. If you suffer from this type of headache, it is strongly recommended that you consult with your doctor for an evaluation before self treating with herbs.
