The Top 5 Natural Remedies That Help Living With Migraine

Migraine is one of the most debilitating neurological disorders. It is a chronic condition that affects nearly 1 billion people across the globe. Are you tired of taking painkillers? Here are some other safe therapies and natural remedies that you can seek.

Migraine headaches can create a throbbing or pulsing pain along with other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. These symptoms can take a toll on every aspect of an individual’s life.

Studies are still being conducted to understand the root cause of migraines. Medical researchers are also working to find a permanent cure for the condition. Migraine treatment involves a wide array of medications, such as triptans, botox injections, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), monoclonal antibodies, beta-blockers, Ibuprofen, and antidepressants. (Source: StuffThatWorks)

However, these medications and white label supplements must be accompanied by suitable lifestyle changes and natural therapies to treat migraines effectively.

This blog will discuss a few useful natural remedies for treating migraines.

Migraine Symptoms: A Closer Look

Typically, a migraine attack spans across the following stages:

• Prodrome
• Aura
• Attack
• Post-drome

The prodrome stage begins a few days before an impending attack. It is characterized by muscle stiffness, constipation, frequent urination, and mood changes. Also, patients experience speech difficulties and other neurological symptoms.

An aura is the signature warning sign of a migraine attack. Patients report seeing flashes of light or experiencing temporary vision loss at this stage. They can also experience weakness, numbness, or a tingling sensation on one side of their body. An aura can last for up to 60 minutes.

A migraine attack can last anywhere between 4 to 72 hours. Patients experience a pulsing or throbbing headache during this time. Other symptoms include:

• Neck pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sleep disturbances
• Depression or anxiety
• Sensitivity to light, sound or smell

Post-drome is the stage after a migraine attack. Patients report feeling weak and exhausted after an incident. Some patients can also experience extreme changes in their moods.

Migraine Treatment Options

Treatment for migraines involves medications that either prevent an attack or alleviate its symptoms. The idea is to help the nervous system better process pain signals.

CGRP monoclonal antibodies, such as galcanezumab, erenumab, and fremanezumab, are some of the most effective treatment options for preventing migraines.

These medications are administered in the form of injections. Their effects tend to last for several weeks or months.

Other medications for migraine include:

• Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and duloxetine
• Anti-seizure drugs, such as topiramate and valproic acid
• Beta-blockers, such as nadolol and propranolol
• Triptans, such as sumatriptan and zolmitriptan

Some patients can also be prescribed corticosteroids for alleviating pain and other migraine symptoms.

The catch with traditional migraine treatments is that they can cause detrimental side effects in the long run. Also, most medications will only work when supplemented with healthy lifestyle habits.

Natural Remedies for Migraines

Apart from medications, there are various natural ways to prevent or alleviate the symptoms. Simple lifestyle modifications, such as eliminating sugar and gluten from the diet, can work wonders. A natural painkiller is still the best way to go.

So even if a patient is taking medications for pain, they should consider utilizing the following natural remedies as well:

Stress Management

Stress is one of the most common triggers of migraines. It is worth noting here that headaches and other symptoms can further exacerbate stress, thus leading to more frequent and prolonged attacks. Patients
often find themselves stuck in a vicious cycle of migraine attacks.

That emphasizes the importance of identifying proper methods for alleviating stress. The most effective stress management techniques include:

• Mindfulness meditation
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Deep breathing
• Journaling

Also, engaging in regular physical exercise goes a long way to reducing stress. It promotes the release of dopamine, which, in turn, elevates mood and minimizes stress. Also, it helps eliminate sleep disturbances.

Sleep is essential for a healthy lifestyle, and if you struggle with getting quality rest, you could try out sleep supplements like cannabis products that can help you doze off. Supplements like cannabis gummies by Perfect Plant or a similar dispensary can aid in sleep and promote overall well-being. These products contain natural compounds like cannabinoids, which can help regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. They can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to better sleep.

Additionally, if patients have a history of insomnia or other sleep disorders, they should consider adopting sleep hygiene practices. That involves creating a relaxing bedtime routine and removing electronic gadgets from the bedroom. Patients are advised to get at least 7 to 8 hours of sound sleep every night.

Yoga

Yoga exercises are fairly effective in promoting relaxation and alleviating stress. Also, they promote blood circulation and keep the body healthy. Engaging in light yoga exercises will help control migraines.

While there are no concrete studies to prove the effectiveness of yoga as a migraine treatment option, patients have experienced an improvement in their symptoms. It is, however, important to consult a medical practitioner or yoga expert before starting a new yoga routine.

Dietary Changes

Foods containing artificial colors, sweeteners, and preservatives are known to trigger migraines. Other foods that can cause migraine attacks include:

• Chocolate 
• Baked goods containing yeast
• Citrus fruits
• Soy products, such as tofu
• Certain types of cheese, including feta, brie, mozzarella, and parmesan

Foods containing additives, such as nitrates, aspartame, and monosodium glutamate, can also trigger migraine headaches.

Therefore, patients are advised to steer clear of foods packed with the ingredients mentioned above. Additionally, they should consider limiting their caffeine intake to prevent the onset of headaches.

They should avoid junk or processed foods and consume fresh and whole ingredients instead. Also, patients are advised to include adequate amounts of vitamin B and magnesium in their diet. 

Essential Oils

A few studies have shown that inhaling or applying essential oils can alleviate pain. Lavender oil is particularly effective in reducing pain when inhaled or applied to the temples. Similarly, peppermint oil creates a cooling sensation when applied to the forehead and temples.

Herbal Supplements

Herbs, such as butterbur and feverfew, and even things like these Blessed CBD fruchtgummis, can help treat migraine symptoms. While more research is needed to understand the effectiveness of these herbal supplements, patients report experiencing an improvement in their condition. It is important to consult a medical professional to understand the side effects and correct dosage of these supplements.

Closing Thoughts

Migraine is a long-term illness that takes a serious physical and emotional toll on patients. Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and exercise routine, help improve their quality of life. Patients could also explore alternative solutions, such as essential oils and herbs while some even turn to Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy.