Although most herbal migraine remedies haven’t been completely scientifically tested to show their effectiveness, many herbs are rapidly becoming more popular, and are gaining ground in the migraine community. Below are a few of those herbal remedies you may consider trying.
Note: Always exercise caution when considering herbal treatments for migraines. Discuss your decision with a healthcare professional before beginning or stopping any medical or herbal treatment.
Feverfew
I have mentioned this a few times before. Some people find it very effective with migraines (as well as relieving minor aches and pains). The plant is native to the Balkan Mountains but can now be found nearly worldwide. Interestingly enough, Eastern European cultures traditionally used feverfew for headaches, insect bites, and other pain. More modern uses have extended to the treatment of:
- migraines
- dizziness
- inflammation
- breathing problems
A very small 2011 study published in the Pharmacognosy Review found that feverfew can help prevent and treat migraines. It found that people who took the herb for up to six months experienced fewer headaches.
Feverfew can cause minor side effects such as bloating, canker sores, and nausea. You may experience moderate side effects when discontinuing use, such as difficulty sleeping, increased headaches, and joint pain.
Butterbur
Butterbur is found in wet, marshy areas of Europe, People once used the leaves of the plant to wrap and preserve butter during warm weather, which is where butterbur got its name. It has been used to treat various sicknesses including:
- headaches
- asthma
- allergies
- cough
- fever
- gastrointestinal problems
- general pain
A 2004 study published in Neurology has confirmed conclusions from older studies that butterbur (50 to 75 mg twice daily) is effective for migraine prevention.
Mint
Peppermint leaves and their essential oils are used for both remedies and culinary purposes. In addition to a head tension relief, it is also used to relieve:
- spasms
- toothaches
- gastrointestinal problems
- nausea
Peppermint oil and its active ingredient, menthol, are available in many forms – a great one for head tension is through the use of a peppermint essential oil. It is also available in teas.
A 2010 study published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice found that menthol was effective at stopping migraine pain and easing nausea when applied to the forehead and temples.
Willow
Willow bark extract was actually used in the development of aspirin, a well-known over-the-counter pain reliever, fever reducer, and anti-inflammatory drug. Willow bark studies have shown an effectiveness independent of salicin content (an anti-inflammatory ingredient of willow bark extract). Willow is a tree found in Europe, Asia, and North America and many, many years ago, people would chew the bark for its anti-inflammatory and fever-relieving effects. It was later used in China and Europe for headaches, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and lower back pain.
Ginger
Ginger has been used in herbal medicines for years. Ginger has traditionally been used as a spice and as a remedy for:
- headaches
- stomach pain
- nausea
- arthritis
- cold and flu symptoms
- neurological problems
It has been well-documented that ginger works great as an anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial “medicine.” A 2014 study published in the Journal of Phytotherapy Research showed that ginger powder benefits were comparable to sumatriptan, which as you probably know, is a common migraine prescription (like Imitrex). Of course, ginger has fewer side effects. Most people can tolerate fresh or dried ginger root, supplements, or extract.
Note: Be careful not to combine ginger supplements with blood thinners because of potential drug interactions.
Caffeine and Black or Green Tea
Caffeinated teas are very popular in Europe, while Green tea has been used in combination with other herbs for migraine pain in traditional Chinese medicine. People in many cultures primarily consume caffeine to help treat:
- headaches
- high blood pressure
- stomach problems
- sexually transmitted diseases
- cancer
- circulatory problems
- inflammation
- skin damage
- kidney disease
Caffeine is also found in many over-the-counter pain relievers today, but you should be very careful with overuse of these types of pain relievers as they can have a rebound effect on migraine sufferers.
Coriander Seed
For many years, people across the world have utilized coriander seed’s healing and seasoning properties. Coriander was known for its ability to successfully treat ailments that ranged from allergies to diabetes to migraines. Traditional Aryuvedic medicine used coriander to relieve sinus pressure and headaches by pouring hot water over the fresh seeds and inhaling the steam.
Although currently lacking in actual medical study findings, it is thought by many to be a useful remedy for head tension. Coriander seed’s anti-inflammatory potential may prove beneficial for some migraines. Coriander seeds can be chewed and used in food or teas. (For more information please contact me.)
Lavender
Known for its sweet smell, lavender is also available as an oil is highly fragrant and has long been used to perfume hygiene products. Because of its antimicrobial properties and clean scent, it was, at one time, added to baths in Rome, Greece, and Persia. The aromatic flowers and their oil were used to treat everything from head tension and the occasional sleeplessness. to mental health complaints such as stress and fatigue. Many of these historical uses are still very popular today.
A 2012 study published in the European Journal of Neurology found that inhaling lavender oil during a migraine may help calm some symptoms more quickly. Breathe in the oil or apply a diluted solution to the temples. (For more information, please contact me.)
Rosemary
Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean region and, of course, has been widely used as a culinary seasoning and medicinal herb. Its uses include the treatment of:
- muscle and joint pain
- memory problems
- concentration difficulties
- nervous disorders
- circulatory problems
- liver ailments
- migraines
Rosemary oil can be diluted and applied topically or inhaled. The leaves can be dried and ground for use in capsules. It can also be used in teas, tinctures, and liquid extracts. Rosemary is believed to have antimicrobial, antispasmodic, and antioxidant effects.
Raw Potato Cuttings
Oddly enough, the potato has been used in European folk medicine for over 200 years, claiming that the use of thick slices of raw potato can be used for calming migraine pain. The slices were covered in a thin cloth and wrapped around the head or rubbed directly on the temples to ease tension and pain. There is no current scientific research suggesting that raw potato cuttings can effectively treat migraines, but of course, when we are suffering from a migraine, we are likely to try anything!!
Honeysuckle
The Japanese honeysuckle has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat:
- wounds
- fever
- colds and viruses
- inflammation
- sores
- infections
Research has identified anti-inflammatory properties in the plant’s leaves, stems, and flowers that can provide pain relief similar to that of aspirin. As a result, honeysuckle may also be effective and useful against migraine pain.
Warning: Take Caution with Herbal Migraine Treatments
Although many herbal remedies can be safe when used correctly, they may also have side effects, just like any prescription medication. Some herbs can interact with other medicines, such as oral contraceptives or heart medications. They can be dangerous or even deadly when misused. Some herbs have little research to back claims, to verify toxicity levels, or identify potential side effects.
Just like medications, herbs can have significant side effects on the body. Some can interact with other medicines, and can be dangerous or even deadly when misused. Discuss all treatment options with ya healthcare professional before use.
Migraine Treatments
In addition to herbal treatments, significant research (as well as first-hand knowledge) shows that diet can play a major role in migraine frequency, duration, and intensity. Low-fat diets, eliminating or limiting certain foods improve gut flora content, and eating consistently to minimize low blood sugar can potentially be preventive in the treatment of migraines.
As always, track your triggers, symptoms, pain intensity and duration, and other related factors, such as the weather, menstrual cycle, and your activities. Last week, I sent you a migraine journal which I hope you are finding useful. Having a thorough record of your experiences will help you and your health coach or healthcare professional narrow down the best individualized treatment options for you. I have programs that would be most beneficial to you as we work up an individualized migraine prevention plan tailored for you. Visit my website and schedule your complimentary breakthrough session with me today.