Natural Migraine Remedies

For those suffering from migraines, a good, effective treatment option is worth its weight in gold if it can decrease or negate the debilitating effects of the headache. Doctors usually prescribe a variety of drugs to combat migraines, and there is constantly more research to find better treatment options. Despite all of this research, however, there is still no cure for migraines, and often traditional remedies stop working. Additionally, some individuals desire more natural courses of action to stop the pain.

Recent research indicates that particular integrative therapies work just as well as traditional drugs do. First, sufferers are encouraged to maintain a record of what triggers the migraines. For instance, many people note that certain foods, hormonal changes, alcohol, stress, additives, weather, or odors impact the frequency and severity of their migraines. If migraine sufferers keep of journal of their daily lives, including what they eat, if they exercise, what they do, etc., it may be easier to see what items should be avoided to prevent a migraine relapse. Further, they may also be able to recognize what brings stress into their lives and learn about ways to combat this, including meditation, yoga, or exercise.

Second, individuals do have natural remedies available to them if they do not want to use conventional migraine drugs. One of these remedies is acupuncture, in which the body is pricked with tiny needles in an effort to release endogenous opioids that are natural pain relievers. Further, research has shown that the benefits from acupuncture last for a long period of time, rather than simply providing temporary relief. In fact, European scientists were able to cut the percentage of those using medication in half just by using acupuncture. Some experts note that you will need approximately 6-12 treatments depending on the severity of pain. Additionally, some insurance companies cover the cost of acupuncture, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation survey. Finally, a review of twenty-two studies found that acupuncture works as well as, if not better than, common drug therapies at preventing migraines from occurring. If you are interested in trying acupuncture, contact your state’s acupuncture board or your insurer to find a licensed practitioner  in your area.

Third, you may be interested in taking various supplements to combat the pain associated with migraines. Some useful supplements include herb butterbur and vitamin B2. The butterbur usage appears to significantly decrease the occurrence of migraines, according to various studies. The B2 also works to alleviate the duration of a migraine, as well as the intensity, but a doctor’s prescription may be needed for the high dosage necessary for some relief. Whichever natural option you choose, make sure to follow the directions on the package and discuss your therapies with a doctor.