Migraines are severe, throbbing, one-sided headaches usually preceded by some sort of visual disturbance or "aura". Nausea and vomiting often occur during an episode. These headaches can be debilitating and can interfere with everyday activities. The immediate cause is vascular instability. Since estrogen is involved in the blood vessel changes that take place, women are more likely than men to suffer from this condition. Natural treatments can help manage this condition.
Herbal Treatments
Tell your doctor about any herbal medications you are taking. The following herbs are safe for long-term use to help prevent attacks, are safe to use with conventional migraine treatments and can complement their effects.
The best-known natural treatment for migraines is feverfew. Long used in Europe, it is effective for managing pain and is a strong anti-inflammatory. It stops the release of blood-dilating substances from platelets. A study published in the July 1988 edition of Lancet found that feverfew reduced the number and severity of migraines as well as vomiting. Take 25 milligrams daily and increase to 100 daily after two weeks. Do not use if pregnant.
The herb petasite has been shown to reduce migraine occurrences by 56 percent, how long they last, and the amount of pain experienced, according to a German study published in 1997 in Arte Zeitung. Take 50 to 100 milligrams twice daily.
Dong quai manages migraines by regulating estrogen and is especially helpful for preventing migraines triggered by menstruation. Take 1,000 milligrams daily.
Take cayenne at the start of migraine. It produces changes in nerve fibers that prevent them from transmitting migraine pain. Mix in powdered form with a starchy food. Use the smallest amount that causes a burning sensation on the tongue.
Traditional Chinese Formulas
Bupleurum plus dragon bone and oyster shell decoction works well for migraines triggered by environmental stress such as weather and allergens. Do not use if you have a fever.
Four-substance decoction treats migraines that cause dizziness, blurred vision, muscle tension and lower abdominal pain.
Gastrodia and uncaria decoction treats migraines that bring about visual disturbances. Do not use if you are trying to conceive.
Dosing instructions for these supplements are include on their product labels.
Other Natural Supplements
Magnesium shows promise in treating migraines by regulating blood vessel spasms. A German study published in a 1996 edition of Cephalalgia found that 41.6 percent of the 81 patients using this supplement experienced shorter and less intense attacks. They also were able to cut back on their standard migraine medications. A magnesium supplement taken as directed on the product label is the best way to keep a steady supply in the body.
An American study published in the December 1996 edition of Medical Hypothesis reported the combination of magnesium and fatty acids helped prevent migraine headaches by controlling blood vessel spasms. Fatty acids can be obtained by taking supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids such as fish-oil supplements in dosages suggested on the product label or by eating cold-water fish such as mackerel, herring, salmon, tuna or sardines.
Diet
Do not eat foods containing the amino acid tyramine because it causes blood vessels to dilate, including anchovies, beer, hard cheeses, corned beef, dried meats, fava beans, fermented beans, lima beans, pickled herring, red wine, and chocolate. Avoid eating large amounts of sweets and starches, because the sugar high is followed by low blood sugar, a well-known precursor to migraine attacks. Avoid coffee and other sources of caffeine, because they can be an effective treatment for migraines if introduced after onset. Drink one or two cups and lie down.
Non-herbal Suggestions
Avoid birth-control pills with high doses of estrogen, which can increase the risk of stroke in women who suffer from migraines. This finding comes from a study published in a 1998 edition of British Journal of Family Planning. Migraines induce decreased blood flow to the brain, which can increase chances of a stroke. Estrogen is a trigger for these blood-vessel changes. High-dose estrogen birth-control pills can multiply this effect.
Anecdotal reports claim chiropractic care can reduce severity of attacks but not the frequency.
Soft, relaxing music can have a calming effect, which can help relieve migraine.
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