Top 6 Alternative Remedies for Treating Migraine

One of the most common complaints presented at the doctor’s clinic is migraine or any type of headaches. There is effective drug treatment available for the treatment and alleviation of headaches but patients keep looking for natural means of tackling their headaches.

There is a wide range of alternative remedies available for the treatment of migraine which basically aimed at stress reduction, relaxation and alleviation of headaches, these alternative remedies comprise of herbs, massages, acupuncture and diet with varying degrees of efficacy. Biofeedback and relaxation techniques are also employed effectively for the reduction of headaches and other symptoms associated with migraine.

Some case reports have suggested that B vitamin niacin is effective in bringing down the frequency at which migraine occurs. Evidence based guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology support the various nutritional and alternative remedies to be effective in the treatment of migraine and other headaches. Some of the points from these guidelines are;

The pure extracts form the butter bur plant is beneficial when given at a dosage of 75 mg and can also be useful in preventing migraines. Certain other remedies which may also be effective in the treatment and prevention of migraines are use of magnesium, feverfew extract and riboflavin.

Studies have suggested that the brain cells of those suffering from migraine do not have the metabolic ability to tolerate or meet the requirements of a migraine attack. Hence, the herbal extracts and nutrients enhance the capacity for the cells in the body and brain to produce more energy. The alternative remedies are meant to be taken regularly to prevent the re-occurrence of attack of migraine.

Herbs

Among a number of herbs used for the treatment of migraine is feverfew, the chemical parthenolide present in fever few acts by inhibiting the chemicals in the brain which cause the blood vessels to dilate. Butterbur extract has also been sued since the middle ages to prevent the migraine attacks and to reduce their severity. Butterbur extract can be bought in the form of capsules, powder, tincture or other forms.

Aromatherapy

Essential oils used in aromatherapy have also been found to be effective. The most commonly used essential oils in the treatment; prevention and alleviation of the symptoms of migraine are peppermint, lavender, rosemary, eucalyptus, sandalwood and basil. There are evidences suggesting that the smell or application of aromatic essential oils to the skin encourage relaxation and reduce the perception of the pain.

Dietary correction

Dietary corrections are considered necessary for the treatment of migraine. Water is most important and there is no alternative of water in the treatment of migraine. Almost half your body weight in ounces of water each day is recommended to be taken. The use of vegetables and fresh juices are essential means of rectifying the nutritional deficiencies and balancing the pH of the body. Nutritional and herbal supplements are also needed to maintain the pH balance of the body.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy has also been used in the treatment of migraine. Hydrotherapy with the help of hot water and cold water helps in increasing the blood flow, circulation, transporting the nutrients to the organs and flushing out the toxins through water.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is also beneficial in treating headaches. Acupuncture is considered to be a useful and adjuvant treatment in the treatment of headaches. The effects of acupuncture are long lasting and it can even reduce chronic pain problems as reported in certain studies.

Massage

Science of Ayurveda and clinical trials both provide evidence that massage is extremely beneficial in reducing the stress and relieve tension. It is especially helpful in headaches by effectively reducing tautness of tender muscles for instance those in the back of the head, neck and shoulders and also increases the blood flow in specific regions.

Category: HEALTH