Migraine headaches are a neurological disorder most commonly manifested as pulsating headaches. These are more than just a headache as they can have debilitating effects on an individual. Usually, they are accompanied by an increased sensitivity to light, smell, and sound and nausea and vomiting.[1]
According to the World Health Organization, migraine headaches are among the 20 most disabling medical conditions worldwide.
The headache is recurring, and some individuals can speculate its occurrence by experiencing a series of sensory and visual changes such as visual disturbances, zigzag lines, and flashing lights, among many others.[2] This type of headache is experienced by about 20% of people suffering from migraines.
Migraines are more prevalent in women than men, affecting 3 out of 4 women commonly striking in between the ages of 20 and 45.
Contents
Possible Causes of Migraine
There are no definitive causes behind the occurrence of migraine in an individual. However, it can be triggered by certain factors that tend to bring about changes in the levels of the neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are largely responsible for the sound functioning of the brain.
The factors that can engender a migraine headache include:
- Familial migraines – About 75% of all migraine sufferers have a family history of migraines.
- Certain food items – These include cheese, red wine, monosodium glutamate (MSG), chocolate among many others.
- Hormonal changes – The different phases of reproductive life, namely, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, and the use of oral contraceptive pills that change the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the female body are also associated with migraine.
- Excessive stress can lead to a migraine attack.
- Weather changes, such as changes in pressure, heat, and temperature, can induce a migraine attack.
- Drinking alcoholic beverages such as red wine and beer are also recognized as a possible cause in some individuals.
- Dehydration can plummet the levels of fluid in the body and induce a migraine headache in specific individuals.
- A change in routine including sleep patterns and eating patterns is identified as a possible cause.
Keeping a watch on your triggers can help you determine the actual cause behind your headaches.
Types and Symptoms of Migraines
Symptoms tend to vary from one person to another. People often experience sensory warning signs, such as blind spots, flashes of light, increased sensitivity to light and sound, tingling in the arms and legs, nausea, and vomiting.
Migraine can be categorized into different types and exhibited accordingly:
1. Migraine Without Aura – It is the most common type of migraine that starts without a sign and lasts between 4 and 72 hours. The symptoms include:
- Throbbing pain on one side of the head
- Photophobia (light sensitivity)
- Phonophobia (sound sensitivity)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache that aggravates on physical exertion
2. Migraine With Aura – Such headaches are marked by classical warning signals shortly before the onset of the attack. These include visual and sensory interferences such as:
- Seeing zigzag lines
- Vertigo
- Blind spots
- Seeing flashing lights
- Speech disturbance
- Tingling or numbness in the body
- Loss of sensation
- Diplopia
- Feeling dizzy
- Weakness that might last for about 72 hours
3. Migraine Without Headache – This is also known as silent migraine. This type of migraine does not involve a headache. Although there is no headache, all the symptoms and migraine aura can be experienced by the individual.
Diagnosis of Migraine
Because there is no test or a biomarker to affirm the diagnosis of migraine, your doctor will evaluate your case based on the symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor will ask questions pertaining to the experienced headache such as:
- Frequency
- Duration
- Severity
- Possible triggers
- Medications are taken
- Family history
- Typical symptoms of migraine headache including the ones experienced in an aura
Your doctor might prescribe some tests in order to rule out the possibility of any other underlying cause.
Standard Treatments for Migraine
Your doctor will likely prescribe you standard medications for migraines based on various factors such as:
- Medical history and overall health
- Age
- Endurance towards specific medications or therapies
- Severity of headache
- Frequency of occurrence
Mostly, the treatment plan is aimed at curtailing the presence of factors that act as possible triggers and cause a migraine attack. This includes prescribing conventional medications, introducing dietary changes, advising biofeedback training, and incorporating ways to manage stress.
Managing Your Migraine Through Natural Ways
Besides following the standard treatment, you can help avert an impending migraine attack by incorporating some natural strategies:
Lifestyle Changes
1. Avoid Food Triggers
Certain foods, beverages, and additives can trigger a headache in susceptible individuals. Identify your triggers and try to avoid their consumption. Some of the worst triggers include alcoholic beverages, aspartame, nitrates, monosodium glutamate, and caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee, or other carbonated colas.
Some common triggers to avoid include:
- Some dairy products
- Chocolates
- Wheat
- Meat
- Citrus fruits
- Eggs
- Apples
- Corns
- Bananas
- Onions
- Nuts and peanuts
2. Get a Massage
Massaging the head helps ease migraine headaches as it blocks pain signals sent to the brain. It also boosts serotonin activity and stimulates certain serotonin receptors, thereby reducing the symptoms and frequency of migraines.[3]
- Gently massage your head with your first two fingers in a circular motion. While massaging, keep in mind that there are pressure points, such as the base of the skull, middle of the forehead (between the eyebrows), and corners of the eyes, that when pressed correctly help relieve pain.
- Alternatively, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. Mix in a ½ teaspoon each of cinnamon powder and cardamom powder. Apply this mixture on your forehead and massage. Leave it on for a few hours before washing it off.
Repeat either of these remedies as needed. Also, regular massage will help reduce the frequency and duration of migraines.
3. Do Yoga
There is nothing new about yoga as an alternative therapy to manage chronic pain. Yoga as an ancient practice involves combining varied postures and breathing techniques to encourage healthy living.
A 2014 study published in the International Journal of Yoga supported the use of yoga as an adjunct therapy to reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches in patients with migraine.[4]
Yoga is a side-effect-free method to fight migraine. Incorporating these simple yoga postures for a few minutes every day will help prepare you better for a looming migraine attack:
- Hastapadasana (Standing Forward Bend)
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
- Shishuasana (Child’s Pose)
- Marjariasana (Cat Stretch)
- Paschimottanasana (Two-Legged Forward Bend)
- Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose)
- Padmasana (Lotus Pose)
- Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
4. Practice the Biofeedback Technique
Biofeedback and relaxation training is the most accepted alternative therapy, combined with medication, to control an existing headache and reduce the chances of an impending headache.
Biofeedback teaches individuals to control the functions of their autonomic (involuntary) nervous system. These functions include heart rate, blood pressure, skin temperature, muscle tension, and brainwave activity.[5]
It typically yields a 45% to 60% reduction in headache frequency and severity in combination with standard treatments. Its effectiveness has stood the test of time and has been researched as a therapeutic cure for about 25 years.
Individuals learn to control these functions by observing monitoring devices and reproducing desired behavior. Relaxation techniques are also used to control these bodily functions. Relaxation techniques include progressive relaxation exercises, yoga, transcendental meditation, or simply focusing on an image of quiet, rest, and solitude.
To successfully treat patients with biofeedback, the appropriate method must be selected. Patients with migraine may be helped with skin temperature feedback, but the combination of electromyographic (EMG) and temperature feedback training is preferred for most headache patients.
5. Try Acupressure
Acupressure is an ancient traditional therapy in Chinese medicine that targets the pressure points on specific parts of the body to relieve pain.
Pressing these particular points, which are referred to as acupoints, can encourage blood circulation and help release muscle tension.[6]
A study published in 2017 indicated that acupressure treatment can decrease migraine-related nausea but cannot relieve pain or enhance the quality of life in patients suffering from chronic migraine with aura.[7]
Pressing on the pressure LI-4 point, also known as Hegu, can provide relief from headaches. This point is located between the index finger and base of your thumb.
- Using your right thumb and index finger, locate the pressure point LI-4 on your left hand.
- Firmly press this point for 5 minutes in a circular motion. Do not be harsh.
- Repeat the technique on the other hand.
6. Apply an Ice Pack
Using an ice pack is perhaps the most popular home remedy to get rid of migraine and tension headaches. It has a numbing effect that alleviates pain.
A study conducted in 2013 supported the use of a frozen neck wrap to reduce the headache associated with migraines. The study involved applying the frozen neck wrap at the beginning of the migraine headache to target the carotid arteries at the neck to curtail the experienced pain in the subjects.[9]
- Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean towel and place it on your temples, forehead, and/or the back of your neck for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat as needed.
7. Relax with Essential Oils
The anti-inflammatory property of peppermint essential oil can have a soothing effect on the nerves.[10] Plus, it has antispasmodic and calming effects.
- Simply drink peppermint tea sweetened with honey. Repeat as needed.
- You can also massage each of your temples with one drop of peppermint essential oil or a combination of peppermint and lavender oils. Leave it on for at least 20 to 30 minutes. Do these a few times a day until you get relief.
- You can also try alternating hot and cold compresses for about 15 minutes, as needed. For better results, add lavender essential oils to the water for the compress.[11]
Dietary Inclusions
Making some additions to your diet can help stop a migraine headache in its tracks:
1. Chew Ginger
Ginger blocks prostaglandins, which are chemicals that promote muscle contractions, impact hormones, and regulate inflammation in the blood vessels of the brain. Most nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), too, work by reducing the production of these chemicals.[8]
- Drink ginger tea a few times throughout the day until you get relief. Make sure to drink it at the onset of your headache. You can look for a ginger tea recipe here.
- Simply chewing on a piece of raw ginger root will also help treat the problem and relieve symptoms such as nausea and digestive distress.
2. Up Your Magnesium Intake
Magnesium plays a crucial role in various physiological processes such as calcium absorption.
It has been reported in studies that people suffering from a migraine attack either suffer from a magnesium deficiency or have considerably low levels of magnesium. Magnesium deficiency is also linked to menstruation-induced migraines.[12]
- Consume nuts, cereals, mackerel, pumpkin seeds, avocado, black beans, dried figs, dark chocolates, and leafy vegetables to derive magnesium from food sources.
3. Use Spices such as Cayenne Pepper and Clove
Spices such as cayenne pepper and clove can be natural remedies for migraine-induced headaches.
Cayenne pepper helps stimulate circulation and improve blood flow. Plus, it contains capsaicin, a compound that works as a natural painkiller.[13]
- Mix a ½ to 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper in 1 cup of warm water.
- Optionally, add some lemon juice and honey to the solution to improve its taste and enhance its health benefits.
- Drink it as needed.
Clove has a soothing effect and works as an anti-inflammatory agent due to its antioxidant content, primarily flavonoids.
- You can either inhale clove oil or rub it on your forehead or neck for relief from headaches. Alternatively, you can chew a clove or add it to your food preparations.
4. Drink Chamomile Tea
Chamomile has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and soothing properties that help relieve migraines. Regularly drinking chamomile tea can also help prevent the problem.[14]
When dealing with migraines, you’ll get the best results by using German chamomile (Matricaria recutita). So, when purchasing this herb, look for the label that says “German chamomile.[15]
- Steep 2-3 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in 1 cup of hot water for a few minutes. You can also add some lemon juice and honey. Strain the liquid and drink this tea three or four times a day for relief from migraine symptoms.
- Alternatively, prepare a herbal tea by steeping equal quantities of chamomile, horehound, and meadowsweet in 1 cup of hot water for at least 5 minutes. Strain the liquid and drink it. Repeat as needed.
5. Take Feverfew
Feverfew is another effective home remedy for migraines that has been used for centuries. The herb contains a compound called parthenolide, which relieves spasms in smooth muscle tissue and prevents inflammation. It also neutralizes prostaglandins that influence pain signals, thereby reducing pain.[16]
- Prepare a herbal tea by steeping 1 teaspoon each of dried peppermint and feverfew leaves in 1 cup of hot water for 30 minutes. Strain the liquid and drink this tea a few times throughout the day. Continue until the pain subsides.
- You can also eat 2-3 fresh feverfew leaves daily or take dried leaf capsules (50 to 100 mg daily). Consult your doctor before taking a supplement.
6. Include Vitamin B Supplements
A study published in Nephrology reports that supplementing with a high dose of vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, can help keep migraine-induced headaches at bay. A reduced incidence of headaches was observed when a daily dose of 400 mg was administered for a month.
A study conducted among pediatric and adult patients suffering from migraine highlighted the significant synergistic impact of riboflavin supplementation on the duration and number of headaches.[17] Apart from vitamin B2, other B vitamins such as B6, B9, and B12 can help prevent migraine headaches.
- Eat foods rich in riboflavin such as green leafy vegetables, organ meats, beans, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
- Consult your doctor for vitamin B supplements.
6. Drink a Cup of Coffee
A cup of strong coffee can help reduce migraine headache symptoms. It contains caffeine that restricts blood vessels and blocks certain receptors that could be causing the migraine.[18]
To increase its effectiveness, add a few drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice as it counteracts the effects of acidic diets that contribute to cyclic headaches.
7. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can trigger a headache, even the ones in migraine, by causing a loss of fluids in the brain and impairing its function. Drinking adequate amounts of water can help prevent a headache caused by dehydration.
It is mandatory to keep a check on your water intake to avoid headaches induced by dehydration.[19]
- Make sure that you drink enough water to stay hydrated. You can replace lost fluids and electrolytes by using oral rehydration solutions in severe cases.
Migraine Attack
Migraine attacks can be experienced several times a week to once a year.
The general pattern of migraine headaches goes through 4 phases:[2]
- Prodromal or Premonitory Stage: This stage is marked by the symptoms that lead to the headache, including mood swings, exhaustion, irritability, food cravings, a stiff neck, and constipation. Frequent yawning may also occur 48 hours prior to a migraine attack.
- Aura: Some people might experience a phase of reversible disturbance in vision and senses preceding the impending headache. This temporary phase is called the “aura.” This phase evolves gradually and lasts for about an hour. It is marked by periods of confusion, speech disturbance, and seeing zigzag lines, flashing lights, and black spots, among many others.
- Headache Phase: This phase is manifested in the form of a headache along with vomiting, sensitivity to light and sounds, and nausea that may last anywhere between 4 and 72 hours.
- Resolution or Postdromal stage: This is the stage where the headache has resolved or is gradually disappearing but the individual experiences fatigue, lethargy, or mood swings from the pain and exhaustion of the previous stages.
It may take a few days to recover completely from the physical drain caused by a migraine attack.
Complications of Migraine
Migraines may result in complications in rare cases, which may include the following:
- Chronic migraines – If a person is experiencing a headache for at least 15 days in a month, you may be suffering from chronic migraine.
- Migrainous infarction – The aura symptoms last for more than an hour, which can lead to a loss of blood supply to the brain, resulting in a stroke.
- Persistent aura without infarction – The aura symptoms can last for more than a week and resemble a stroke without any bleeding or tissue damage in the brain.
- Overuse of pain relievers can lead to abdominal problems such as stomach ulcers.
- Migraines can lead to mental health problems such as depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety disorder.
When to See a Doctor
Aside from the symptoms of migraine, it is necessary to seek medical review if you are experiencing a headache that:
- Is unlike your usual headaches and is accompanied by the classical symptoms of migraine
- Restricts your sleep and is intense enough to disrupt your sleep
- Increases in intensity by physical exercise
- Is recurrent and is starting to affect the quality of your life.
- Worsens over time and becomes severe (seek immediate medical help)
Final Thoughts
Migraine is marked by throbbing headaches, nausea, vomiting, and an “aura’’ in some cases. It is a complex condition that cannot be prevented. However, you can keep track of the factors that are likely to trigger a migraine attack.
In addition to standard treatments, you can try alternative therapies such as yoga, biofeedback technique, and meditation. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat a diet low in carbohydrates and high in protein, and drink plenty of water to minimize the frequency of migraine-induced headaches.
Resources:
- Weatherall MW. The diagnosis and treatment of chronic migraine. Therapeutic advances in chronic disease. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4416971. Published May 2015.
- Giffin NJ, Lipton RB, Silberstein SD, Olesen J, Goadsby PJ. The migraine postdrome: An electronic diary study. Neurology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4955275/. Published July 19, 2016.
- Noudeh YJ, Vatankhah N, Baradaran HR. Reduction of current migraine headache pain following neck massage and spinal manipulation. International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312646/.
- Kisan R, Sujan M, Adoor M, et al. Effect of Yoga on migraine: A comprehensive study using clinical profile and cardiac autonomic functions. International journal of yoga. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4097897/. Published 2014.
- Andrasik F, Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. Biofeedback in headache: An overview of approaches and evidence. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. https://www.mdedge.com/ccjm/article/95385/biofeedback-headache-overview-approaches-and-evidence. Published October 2, 2018.
- Hsieh LL-C, Liou H-H, Lee L-H, Chen TH-H, Yen AM-F. Effect of acupressure and trigger points in treating headache: a randomized controlled trial. The American journal of Chinese medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20128040. Published 2010.
- Xu J-H, Mi H-Y. A randomized controlled trial of acupressure as adjunctive therapy to sodium valproate on the prevention of chronic migraine with aura. Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5502191/.
- Martins LB, Rodrigues AMDS, Rodrigues DF, Dos Santos LC, Teixeira AL, Ferreira AVM. A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial of ginger ( Zingiber officinale Rosc.) addition in acute migraine treatment. Cephalalgia: an international journal of headache. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29768938. Published January 2019.
- Sprouse-Blum AS, Gabriel AK, Brown JP, Yee MH. Randomized controlled trial: targeted neck cooling in the treatment of the migraine patient. Hawai’i journal of medicine & public health: a journal of Asia Pacific Medicine & Public Health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3727573/. Published July 2013.
- Göbel H, Heinze A, Heinze-Kuhn K, Göbel A, Göbel C. Peppermint oil in the acute treatment of tension-type headache. Schmerz (Berlin, Germany). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27106030. Published June 2016.
- Sasannejad P, Saeedi M, Shoeibi A, Gorji A, Abbasi M, Foroughipour M. Lavender essential oil in the treatment of migraine headache: a placebo-controlled clinical trial. European neurology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22517298. Published 2012.
- Yablon LA. Magnesium in headache. Magnesium in the Central Nervous System [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507271/. Published 2011.
- Alpay K, Ertas M, Orhan EK, Ustay DK, Lieners C, Baykan B. Diet restriction in migraine, based on IgG against foods: a clinical double-blind, randomized, cross-over trial. Cephalalgia: an international journal of headache. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2899772/. Published July 2010.
- Srivastava JK, Shankar E, Gupta S. Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future. Molecular medicine reports. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/. Published November 1, 2010.
- Zargaran A, Borhani-Haghighi A, Faridi P, Daneshamouz S, Kordafshari G, Mohagheghzadeh A. Potential effect and mechanism of action of topical chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) oil on migraine headache: A medical hypothesis. Medical Hypotheses. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25238714. Published November 2014.
- Wider B, Pittler MH, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25892430. Published April 20, 2015.
- Shaik MM, Gan SH. Vitamin supplementation as possible prophylactic treatment against migraine with aura and menstrual migraine. BioMed research international. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4359851/. Published 2015.
- Lipton RB, Diener H-C, Robbins MS, Garas SY, Patel K. Caffeine in the management of patients with headache. The journal of headache and pain. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5655397/. Published October 24, 2017.
- Price A, Burls A. Increased water intake to reduce headache: learning from a critical appraisal. Journal of evaluation in clinical practice. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26200171. Published December 2015.
Good to have this information. In every household someone or the other may need this remedy for the health problem.
I suffered debilitating migraines for almost 40 years .then I cut MARGARINE out of my diet ….NO MORE MIGRAINES. If I eat away from home and have margarine I may not taste or even know I have had it but within 24 hours I am down with a migraine. Now If there is any chance of eating margarine I avoid it.
you are right. I also have migraine when I eat biriyani from outside which contain margarine instead of ghee.
usefull remedies
good to have all this information…
I agree with Ian that some food may cause migraine due to your intolerance. In my case it is cheese and strong coffee. If I had cheese on empty stomach I would get migraine rightaway
Praise d Lord, i dont have Migraine.
For d benefit of those suffering from ds illness, i would just like to thank you for sharing this very helpful tips.
To GOD be the Glory!
I have not suffered from
Migraine for a long time until minute ago. I took mefenamic
acid immediately when my
Vision became wavy and had
Blind spot. I am sipping
Chamomille and ginger tea NOW . I KNOW ITS WORK
RELATED AND I NEED A BREAK!
Take it easy. Focus only on things you can do. That also happened to me before and i learned my lesson so well.
Cheese, chocolate, redwine, ANY kind of processed food (hot dogs, bologna, treat meat, spam, potted meat, etc.) Peanutbutter will trigger migraine headaches.
So kind of u for imparting such a valuable remedy.
I have crippling Migraines I call them that cause I cannot leave my house without getting sick I cannot exorcise or even work because I get them everyday. I am scared of doctors but I may be seeing a neurologist hopefully soon. But hopefully some of these remedies help. Also weather effects mine if it is about to rain the pressure causes me to get a severe Migraine.
Yes! All of these are triggers for me! I should be a size 6 if I avoid all of my trigger foods!!!
Peppermint oil I have little bottles at work and when I feel one coming on I dab a bit in my nose.. It doesn’t take it away but it’s aides in it not being a zinger..
I suffer from migraine once or twice a month. I hate it but it seems like it became a part of my life. And I believe that it is caused by what eat. I noticed that when am physically tired and I have indigestion, migraine follows.
Thank you for sharing these home remedies.
Just had my first migraine with a blind spot, blur vision , nausea, horrible. I am 34 years old.
I am vegan and don’t eat sugars , I added some golden flex seed by stober farms to my green juice today . It is organic but processed . 2 hours later I got horrible pain, had to leave work… I wonder if that is what caused it. It is the only thing I did different today.
I am getting migraines for last 4years and it gets severe by time. Many times I had migraine pain 2-5 days continuously. Sometimes I listened to ”migraine relief music” on youtube and it helps. I tried peppermint green tea, chamomile green tea, apple, Guacamole and apple cider vinegar with water, it helps a lot but now my migraine on an another level. Now I am feeling a sharp pain on one side of my ear. I am total sensitive of lights (the sun, car lights, bulbs), loud noise or music, smell of cheese in pizza, cigarette’s fumes, red wine, any kajal pencil, any products for hair style except Aveeno hair products, can’t use any shampoo like dove, Pantene, hair and shoulder because they have sulfates so I used very mild organic shampoo. However, this is only for me because migraines triggers vary person to person. But I am going to take acupuncture therapy may be that help.
I am going to try these. I get migraines way too often. As I sit here I am going on day 2 of a migraine on my right side of my head. This has got to go as I have an interview tomorrow for a job transfer. Having a migraine and sitting in an interview isn’t a good mix. It’s so hard to think clearly. Claiming these remedies will work. Thank you for sharing.
Thank God for Google… I will try all the recommended remedies if need be. I saw my grandmother suffered with migraines and I have been suffering for the past 18 years. mine is triggered by …..missing a meal, loud noises, stress, bright lights and the list goes on. I think I will start with a cup of ginger tea. Knowledge is power….Thanks for sharing guys.
My son is allergic to aspartame which is in many foods. Aspartame will trigger a migraine. Steer clear of that ingredient. It causes many side effects that are horrible for your health.
This might help my mom! I don’t want to see her suffering from this pain..
Hopefully these remedies can be helpful, I have been suffering with migraines for almost two years now, to think that someone people have suffered from them longer makes my head hurt thinking about it. Can’t believe we go through this. I am still learning my triggers But alcohol, skipping meals, smells like cigarettes, strong perfume and cologne, lavender and the smell of certain food being cooked are all so far is what I’ve noticed. I was so unaware that certain food could be a cause. I am going to try the apple cider vinegar and the German chamomile tea. I pray a cure is found real soon because no one should have to live like this way. God bless you all.
Regular massages, yoga, meditation, essential oils and a great chiropractor have kept mine at bay. A mouth guard at night to keep me from clenching has also helped.
My own migraines occur when I overindulge in caffeine, which causes excess elimination of magnesium in your urine. I’ve read studies show 600 mg/day can prevent and/or treat migraine. So I start with 200 mg magnesium glycinate (the only version of supplemental magnesium my gut will tolerate), and now I have many more tools, thanks to you. I found immediate (50%) relief with the acupressure points. Now I can get on with my day! (Of course, if I supplemented with magnesium every day, I probably would never get one again, but consistent compliance is another issue!) Thanks for serving as a truly effective DIY resource.
Thanks this is very, very helpful, all the comments are great thanks all for sharing. Have peppermint going and try some now
I have suffered from migraine for almost 13 years from now but then thanks God! now I’ve found this ginger tea its really make me feel free from pain and also avoiding those sweet foods etc..i think everyone should try this ginger tea its affordable and available in all supermarket..
I have suffered from migraine for almost 13 years from now but then thanks god because now i found this ginger tea its really make me feel free from pain…for those who have a migraine out there you should try this ginger tea it will definitely healed the pain..godbless everyone!
I suffer from migraines and it’s NO joke . To the point I can’t lift my head or open my eyes . My neck locks up too . It’s sooo depressing . The vinegar is a good one I find when I drink it everyday I have no problems .
I have what they call stomach migraines so all of these are hard for me to do considering I stay nauseous and vomit to where I end up dehydrated and have to go to the hospital. Does anyone know of anything else I can do. I am a recovering drug addict as well so pain pills are not an option. Please if anyone has any suggestions please let me know .
Jalayna, maybe try aroma therapy. Buy lavender, peppermint, or even frankincense. And defuse it or put it on your wrists and temples. Hope this helps
You should get tested for allergies. My allergy migraines make me feel that way.
Ginger. You get ginger lollies for pregnant women for nausea. Try sucking on that or even just a ginger biscuit or 2. If the nausea is gone my head feels half way better already.
I went to a specialist who has since retired. It was discovered through special testing I was intolerant to corn, eggs, wheat and milk. I eliminated those foods. For about a week, I was VERY sick. Headache, fever, chills. I was only permitted to eat two (2) pure foods from a list provided to me at a sitting with water. I was not permitted to eat the same food more than once in three days. No more headaches. After about 3 months, I reintroduced corn, eggs, wheat and milk one at a time. Corn and wheat were the problem. My doctor told me most people would not go through the hassle of this type of treatment. Most will give in to cravings or think a drop wont matter but it will. Another problem is that this stuff is in everything. The exact reason is unknown.
Interesting side notes:
(1) I’m 46 and I suffered from hyperactivity as a child. I took ritalin. Food may have been the problem then too.
(2) I also suffer from depression
(3) After taking Effexor for about 6 months I notices I could eat anything and not get a heachache suggesting brain chemistry may play a role.
Good luck.
Comment:Hello there av suffered from migraines for the last 7yrs now av done all the tests n scans but nothing is seen, lastly i did an EEG that showed poor blood flow to the brain. Been on painkillers n muscle relactants , the throbbing goes down only when i take pain relievers . Sadly mine goes for 24/7 year in year out but av Never known what triggers it.
Thanks for sharing at list now i know an not alone. Will try the ginger tea
I had a hair analysis test done and my cobalt was extremely high and the Dr said it was causing my headaches . Try getting the TMA testing it will tell all about the toxins accumulated and deficiencies lacking in the body…
What is a TMA test and whom shall I request the test from?
My daughter suffers with migraines very often, I’m hoping some of these hints, teas etc help her
wonderful information provided thank you so much!
i cant have coffee, chocolate, peanuts or orange juice for 1 week a month. the other 3 are fine. it used to be period time, but i’m now 70 and it still applies.
Wonderful information. Trying apple cider vinegar mixture, and definitely soothing.
I quit drinking a glass of wine before bed to help me sleep and I’ve had vertigo associated migraines ever since. It’s been almost two months. The only way the pain goes away briefly is by taking 4 advice cold and sinus every 4 hours. The vertigo is gone right away if I take betahistine.. I thought migraines were supposed to come and go not constantly be there.. I’ve tried a lot of these remedies but no luck.
I have migraine too. It last about 2 hours Mine is go a way after vomiting few times. To prevent dehydrate I drink 2 water glass before vomit. Then I can vomit easily. After that you don’t need go to the hospital for dehydration. To the food list I like to add vanilla flavor milk and cold jelly.
It’s one of the best article for Home remedies for migraine headaches
Many thanks
I suffer migraines daily. I am a student in college and the fluorescent lights in the classrooms KILL me. not like i can ask the professor to turn the lights off! wish i could sit in the classroom wearing sunglasses without being judged 🙁 Every single day I leave school and have work or studying to do and 9/10 i need to do it while suffering a migraine and vomiting. its affecting my life in every single way possible. i do have other triggers besides the lights but its certainly a huge one for me. i am prescribed Imitrex to take when i feel one coming on but cannot take more than 3 a week. im hoping some of these remedies work for me.
For those with light sensitivity : if you can get a physician’s note for the college, accommodations may be made. They can put blue or other colored filters on the lights. Colleges are supposed to abide by the same accommodations that are used in elementary or high schools. You may have to go through “the process” at your college to get an accommodation contract (IEP). It might be worth checking it out.
When I have a bad migraine my husband told me I shouldn’t be lying in a darkened room with a sleep mask on cutting out any light. He suggested going downstairs and watching tv with him. It’s obvious he has never had a migraine in his life. I can’t bear any light at all when I have one of my migraine hence the darkened room and eye maskn
Part 1: Description of how the migraine works in my case
I suffer from migraines from time to time. It’s the type that slowly worsens to the point of severe nausea. Until recently the only effective treatments I’ve known are sleep or painkillers (paracetamol). If the migraine has progressed far enough by the time sleep becomes an option, the pain and nausea will make it difficult to fall asleep. Vomiting once or taking a small amount of painkillers is the usual fix for that. Otherwise the strategy is to lie on the side and keep my head in the same position for much longer periods than I usually do. Anyone who have had this will know why.
The most important things I can do to prevent migraines is to eat (the breakfast is cruical) and sleep at the right times, and have moderate physical exercise at least every other day.
Other migraine triggers (that typically only work if I failed with above) include not drinking enough, intense physical activity, laughing too much (really), turning my head to the side for too long (basically my head becomes sensitive to movement and change in pulse, breathing etc.) or eating certain foods that leave an unpleasant aftertaste (feels similar to the bad taste I experience when the migraine has progressed to a certain point) e.g. yoghurt (or certain brands of it?).
Part 2: The simple remedy that consistently works for me
Whenever I feel a migraine coming now, I simply start taking Fisherman’s Friend (original, sugar-free to be precise). As long as I maintain its taste and cooling effect I’m good. If combined with deep and slow breathing it’s even better. This has completely replaced my need for painkillers. Even though it may not always make it go away completely like painkillers or sleep usually does, it’s so effective at removing discomfort and preventing progression of the migraine it feels like any other day, although I should refrain from physical activity until it’s completely gone.
I suppose this lozenge (containing menthol and eucalyptus oil) may be similar to the peppermint oil mentioned in this article, and similar products sharing key ingredients might do the exact same thing for all I know.
TL;DR give Fisherman’s Friend combined with relaxation a try
Thanks for this sharing. I have exactly the same symptoms. Will try this.
guys just try one simple remedy. i m 40 year old woman & suffering from migraine since 30 years. i tried almost everything but nothing helped me.then i tried this home remedy which is not expensive at all and quite simple & trust me its been 6 months now i didnt get migraine attack once also. otherwise it used to be like 15 days in a month. the remedy is that just apply 8 drops of mustard oil ( rai ka tail) in your one nostril with dropper and lie down straight for 5 mins. do this twice a day for 5 days every month and your migraine will go forever. no need to heat the oil just apply normal room temperature 8 drops mustard oil in any one side nostril. if you have applied right side in the morning then in the evening apply on the left side. its as simple as that. its very very effective. only problem is that it burns like hell for 1 min in the nose but dont worry its safe.
Dark Room
Ear plugs
Cold washcloth
Eye Covers
Patience, Faith &Hope.
72+/- hours later,you should feel much better.
God Bless.
I don’t get migraines, but they do NOT sound like fun. Get better soon, all of you!
This is my experience with food allergies I was having Geographic tongue and it came up abruptly there was a white spot on my tongue say around and I started feeling that after having food I used to have headaches I started finding out that What is real cause behind my headaches and I realised that the main cause was bread.cakes .sugar .rice
Potatoes.wheat at times these items have given me metallic taste. Migrane .preassure on eyes .i started avoiding these things and I relized that everything went fine.i have realised this is all related to stomach.
I heard accupreassure relieve headaches. Yes it does overall nice to your body .I started doing accupreassure mine focus was on below feet and centre half because in accu .p stomach lies in hand I started pressing all over whenever I got free say 20 min a day
My experience say I am relieved from geoplgraphic tongue .metallic taste in mouth .my acceptance to foods has improved by great extent .
I suggest in life eat right eat light .drink water 2 litres minimum.walk half hour and accupreassure it gives you peace of mind pl do accupreassure while closing eyes try to feel the point you are pressing
I suffered chronic migraines for many years, had every symptom, twice a week maybe. Sumatriptan worked for a while until I just flat out stopped taking it. I started drinking a big glass or two daily of nesquick chocolate milk powder mix, loaded with vitamins and minerals haha. But seriously it worked so well that I haven’t even had the hint of a headache or migraine since. Its a special ritual for me to at least have a glass every day. I thought I would share this because its a miracle for me. I’ve tried loading up on vitamins in the past and never had luck its something special about that sweet chocolate powder..haha. Try it out
This has worked for me:
1. Take equal amounts of jeera, ajwain, black pepper, ghee (ghee can be less).
2. Mix and Fry
3. Powder using a mixi grinder
4. Put it in air tight container without adding salt.
Take the above powder 1/2 spoon to 1 spoon and mix it in rice and salt. Take this as first morsel in your food daily.
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If I miss this for few days and for some reason like eating outside food or eating the food I am sensitive to, if headache comes again, I take zandu nityam laxative tablet, so the undigested food goes out in 12-15 hours time. Then slowly relief comes. I would fast as much as possible during this time else eat very little special food till I get back to normal. After that also I try to take this special food as breakfast for few days.
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The special food I have is poha upma. The way to prepare is:
1. Take in kadai some ghee and put some urad dal, chana dal, jeera, methi, mustard and some hari mirch. Fry the seasoning.
2. Take poha and clean with water and immediately drain.
3. Take boiling water and pour in poha and count 20. Then drain the water using colander. I use bhagyalakshmi brand poha available in Bangalore and 20 count works for it.
4. Add the seasoning to poha and mix. Eat when little hot.
5. But do not eat the hari mirchi in it. Keep it aside.
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Till you get back, avoid oils and take only boiled ghee.
This is the algorithm I have comeup with after all the experimentation and suffering. Hope this helps to atleast few.
My migraines are almost always triggered by certain food additives. It took a while to learn what was causing them. After trial and error, I began to connect the dots of what foods contain the ingredients that give me the migraines. I now always read the ingredients list in the grocery store. Sometimes this is not enough to prevent the migraine as there are ingredients in foods that are not listed. Silicon dioxide is used in many spices to prevent clumping. It is not usually listed, but always triggers a migraine. Many other triggers are nitrates, nitrites, guar gum, triticale, msg, monocalcium phosphate, calcium supplement, calcium chloride, red 40, carrageenan, soy lecithin, and the list goes on. I try to stay away from most processed foods, and eat out rarely. Most shampoos and soaps cause migraines from the sulfates. I have tried many things to relieve the pain, but have had limited success. The most effective is prevention, and becoming very sensitive and aware of what I am putting in/on by body. It is helpful to read what others are going though, and to discuss and learn more about the causes and ways to prevent migraines.