Apart from being extremely painful, migraines can also lead to nausea and vomiting. In many cases, the patient can do nothing except wait for it to pass. It is vital to be able to recognize symptoms of a migraine and know various ways in which it can be managed. Migraines are very different from typical headaches and some of the symptoms are a throbbing feeling in one side of the head, flashing lights and high sensitivity to light and sound.
Here are some remedies for migraines which can help prevent them:
- Lavender oil
This beautiful smelling natural product helps a person to relax and is one of the most useful home remedies for migraines. It can be used in a diffuser. It can be applied on the wrists or temples where the oil gets absorbed into the skin and will reduce the effects of a migraine. You can also mix this essential oil in the bathtub to improve blood flow and lower the intensity of the migraines. - Diet
Monitoring one’s diet and eliminating certain foods can be one of the most effective remedies for migraines. Some foods have been known to lead to severe headaches and migraines. Examples of these foods include fried foods, chocolate, foods containing monosodium glutamate (MSG), alcohol especially red wine and processed foods. However, not all the people suffering from a migraine will have one kind of trigger food. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a log to record your reactions to various foods and eliminate those that can lead to migraines. - Peppermint oil
This is a relaxing and calming home remedy for migraines. It is particularly suited for tension migraines. Poor blood flow is often the reason behind migraines, and this oil has properties which regulate the blood flow. It has the ability to open vessels which are involved in blood flow. It also allows more oxygen to flow into the bloodstream. This natural remedy for a migraine can be applied to the forehead. - Massage
Massages have been part of therapy for various ancient cultures such as India, Egypt, and China. They also serve as a useful remedy for migraines by providing relief from pain caused due to migraines. Massages help to unwind which enhances the levels of serotonin in the body and offers a better quality of sleep. Apart from relaxation, massages also help to improve blood flow and regulate hormones such as cortisol which can trigger migraines. - Feverfew
This is a form of herbal treatment which has been used for ages as a remedy for migraines. Feverfew has an ingredient called parthenolides which helps to control how blood vessels expand and contract. Other benefits of this herbal treatment are that it improves the tone of blood vessels and neutralizes chemicals known to result in pain and swelling. Feverfew can be consumed by chewing some medium-sized leaves or in the form of tea. - Ginger
Ginger is a powerful remedy for migraines and has far fewer side effects than prescribed medications. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments for thousands of years. Apart from reducing the severe pain of migraines, it also helps to improve digestion and gets rid of nausea and vomiting that often accompany migraines. The effectiveness of ginger comes from its ability to block prostaglandins which cause muscle contractions and also have an impact on certain hormones. It can be consumed as ginger root or in the form of ginger tea. - Flaxseed
This is another natural remedy for migraines. It has been observed that inflammation is one of the leading causes of many headaches. Flaxseeds are a rich source of Omega 3-fatty acids, and a diet that is high in these acids can be very effective in reducing the headaches. These can be incorporated into your diet as whole seeds. They can also be grounded and included in smoothies or baking products. - Yoga
This ancient practice is a comprehensive approach towards fighting migraines as they happen and prevent them from occurring again. Certain yoga poses tackle stress points in the body which may be causing the migraines. Yoga has an impact on the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) which helps to slow heart rate and improve blood pressure. This helps the body to recover from the stress experienced due to migraines. Overall, yoga is a highly effective remedy for a migraine as it restores balance in the body.
Migraines can distress a person with their severe pain, high sensitivity and stress. However, with a planned diet and natural remedies, it can be successfully tackled. The simple steps outlined in the above list will help a person lead a healthy life.
