Migraine headaches are a very common neurological condition throughout the US and the rest of the world. They’re also one of the most excruciating experiences a human being can go through, which is why most people turn to over-the-counter (OTC) medications and prescriptions from their doctors.
If you’re someone who experiences migraines but would prefer a more natural solution, however, you’re in luck. There are several non-medical treatments for migraines and severe headaches that those who use them swear by. Below we’ll review the most common natural treatments for migraines and how they work.
Migraines vs. Headaches: What’s the Difference?
It’s possible to have a migraine and not realize it, especially if you don’t experience them frequently. This is because many moderate to severe headaches can easily turn into migraines, with the primary symptom being an intense headache on one side of the head. The pain can also occur on both sides of your head and affect your face and neck.
Migraines typically create a throbbing sensation, which is also what regular headaches often feel like. The easiest way to tell whether you’re experiencing a migraine versus a headache is by the severity of the pain. Headaches are associated with dull, aching pain accompanied by pressure in various areas of the head. Migraines are described as intense throbbing, often accompanied by blurred vision, nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light and sound.
Put simply, migraines are debilitating whereas headaches are not.
The Most Common Non-Medical Treatments for Migraines
If you experience migraines frequently, it’s always a good idea to have OTC or prescription medication on hand. However, these medications can come with a range of side effects, especially when taken long-term.
These side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Weight gain
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Blurry vision
- Sexual dysfunction
- Nausea
- Rashes
- Tremors
- Constipation
These symptoms are the reason why more and more people are looking for alternatives.
Here are some of the most common non-medical alternatives for migraines:
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
Scientific research suggests there are significant links between migraines and deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals. Therefore, supplementing your diet with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, magnesium, coenzyme Q10 and riboflavin may help.
Magnesium plays a role in many different bodily processes and is arguably the best supplement to take for migraines. The American Migraine Foundation suggests taking 400-600 mg of magnesium per day to prevent migraines, especially for individuals that experience menstrual migraines and migraines with auras.
Essential Oils
Aromatherapy has long been used as a homeopathic way to treat a variety of conditions and to promote relaxation. More specifically, peppermint and lavender essential oils are often inhaled (using a diffuser) or applied directly to the temples or areas where the throbbing pain is occurring to relieve migraine pain.
While the evidence is somewhat limited, there are published studies concluding the use of lavender essential oil is effective at providing migraine relief after being inhaled for up to 15 minutes. Peppermint is said to be especially effective when applied topically as it contains menthol, which is renowned for its cooling and numbing properties.
Keep in mind that essential oils can irritate the skin, so it’s best to do a patch test first. You can also dilute your essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves pushing tiny needles into specific pressure points throughout the body — also known as meridian points. The goal is to help individuals achieve a more balanced energy flow (qi), and it has been used for centuries to address everything from stress to joint pain and beyond.
Studies show that acupuncture is as effective as prophylactic drug therapy for migraines. It’s also safe, long-lasting and affordable.
Massages
Aside from being an excellent way to unwind, massages may also help prevent migraines. Massages work to lessen the overall stress that can trigger a migraine headache, and there are several spinal manipulation techniques that have been shown to reduce the pain associated with migraines.
While messages cannot cure the overall neurological condition that causes recurring migraines, they can work in conjunction with other non-medical treatments to reduce the frequency of your migraines as well as relieve the symptoms.
Biofeedback
Our bodies respond to pain via physical changes such as higher heart rates, tensed muscles, cold hands, rapid breathing and so on. Biofeedback is the mind-body technique used to control these physiological responses to stressors.
Biofeedback works by monitoring and measuring the body’s response to migraine-inducing stimuli through electrical pads. This allows you to evaluate how your body responds to certain triggers, and with the help of a qualified professional, you can learn the techniques to modify these responses to promote relaxation and possibly prevent migraines and severe headaches.