Severe pain, sensitivity to sound and light and nausea are all-too-familiar symptoms for the migraine sufferer. While some patients may eventually experience a remission in the frequency of their migraine attacks, others must rely upon long-term medical intervention. Both ayurvedic and Chinese medical practitioners recommend ginger root for pain relief and the treatment of neurological disorders. If you decide to self-medicate with ginger root, consult with your physician and pharmacist about possible interactions between ginger and any current medications you are taking.
Migraine Headaches
Although conventional science previously attributed the onset of a migraine to the fluctuation of circulation in blood vessels in the head, doctors are now taking a closer look at hereditary factors. Migraines often run in families, and while lifestyle and hormones likely influence the onset of a headache, genetic factors may contribute to a disorder of the central nervous system. Traditional treatment approaches generally include prescription medications for pain and preventative strategies, such as diet, relaxation and behavioral therapies.
The Properties of Ginger
As scientists continue to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger root, they have learned that ginger regulates the activity of chemicals involved in the body's inflammation response. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger contains essential oils and phenolic compounds, such as shogaols and gingerols, that have sedative and analgesic properties.
How to Use Ginger
Ginger products are available in fresh, dried, extract, tincture and capsule form. You can also purchase organic ginger tea bags from your local health food store. If you prefer to use fresh ginger, you can steep a small piece of peeled, fresh ginger root in purified hot water for seven or eight minutes. For daily consumption, you can also incorporate small pieces of fresh ginger root into sautes, sauces and dressings.
Considerations
Food additives and preservatives, such as MSG, processed foods and even dehydration can cause the onset of a migraine headache. A fresh-food diet of fruits and vegetables and a food diary are two methods that may help you to determine the cause of your migraines. If you have recurrent migraine headaches that do not respond to natural remedies, make an appointment with your primary health care practitioner for a thorough medical evaluation.
References
- MedlinePlus: Migraine
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Migraine Headaches - Treatment Approaches; Harvey Simon; September 2008
- PubMed.gov; Ginger (Zingiber officinale) in Migraine Headache; T. Mustafa, et al.; July 1990
- Natural News; Use Herbal Remedies for Headaches; David Victor; December 2009
- American Headache Society; Controversies in Headache Medicine: Migraine Prevention Diets; Merle Diamond, et al.
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Ginger; Steven D. Ehrlich; November 2008
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