If you’re suffering from chronic migraines, you know how difficult it can be to get rid of them. While there are many medications on the market, there are also natural remedies that you can try. Some of them include acupuncture, cold compresses, and lavender oil.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture for migraine pain is a natural treatment that can be considered for patients experiencing acute headaches and migraines. It can also be combined with other therapies, such as dietary changes or Chinese herbal remedies.
Acupuncture is a 2000-year-old treatment that uses a needle to stimulate specific points in the body. These points are believed to regulate the flow of qi (or energy), which is the body’s vital force.
Studies have shown that acupuncture for migraines can be an effective treatment. In one study, it was found that participants experienced fewer migraine attacks after four weeks of treatment. This result was consistent with studies conducted on acupuncture for headaches.
Some migraine support group online can share their experiences and assess the effectiveness of acupuncture for migraine.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is an excellent remedy for migraine pain. It is an analgesic, soothing, and anti-inflammatory. It has also been shown to help reduce stress, which can significantly contribute to migraines.
A study published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine reported that lavender effectively reduced the severity and frequency of headaches. It also demonstrated that aromatherapy, or the inhalation of lavender oil, significantly reduced the number of migraines that occur.
Several studies have shown that lavender and other essential oils may relieve the pain of migraines. However, more research is needed to prove their medicinal effects.
Aromatherapy can be a natural alternative to medications, but it is essential to consult with a physician to ensure that you are not allergic to the oils. Essential oils can be harmful if misused. Some people may experience side effects from essential oils, so they should be kept away from pets and children.
Cold Compresses
A cold compress is a standard treatment for migraine, and there are many ways to go about it. Its simplest form is to put a cold, damp towel on the affected area.
Alternatively, you can purchase a specially-designed ice pack. This type of cold pack holds cold temperatures for up to 20 minutes. The ice should be applied in the right spot for the most effective results.
Another option is to make your ice pack using water and rubbing alcohol. Doing so will not only be convenient but can also be more cost-effective.
A cold compress can be applied on the forehead or the back of the neck. Ice can also be placed on the carotid arteries, the main blood vessels in the neck.
A study from 2006 showed that cold therapy might be an excellent way to alleviate migraine pain. Cold therapy can reduce inflammation by constricting blood vessels, and it’s possible that it could help prevent cortical spreading, a symptom of migraines.
Caffeine
Caffeine is an ingredient in Excedrin and is believed to help with migraine pain. A study published in the Journal of Headache Pain found that caffeine can relieve headaches at the right time.
Caffeine is known to help the body absorb the active ingredients of medications. It also helps with migraine pain because it narrows the blood vessels in the brain.
Although caffeine can be beneficial, it should be avoided by anyone suffering from migraines. The American Migraine Foundation suggests reducing caffeine to 25 milligrams a day. This should be done slowly over several days to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
In addition to caffeine, there are other things you can do to treat your migraines. Sleep is a great way to alleviate your headaches. Another good thing to try is topical menthol, which may help relax your tight muscles.
Another effective technique is to drink more water. Dehydration can also contribute to headaches.
Ginkgo Biloba
If you are suffering from migraine, you may be wondering whether it is possible to use ginkgo Biloba to alleviate the pain and other symptoms of the condition. The answer is yes. Ginkgo biloba is a natural remedy that can reduce the pain associated with migraines and is also used to prevent mental decline. But, like any other medicine, it is essential to be cautious about using ginkgo Biloba because of its potential side effects.
The ginkgo tree leaves have been used as a medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Various preparations, including teas and capsules, are available. Teas are usually classified as food, while tablets are more convenient.
Several studies have shown that ginkgo Biloba’s active ingredients can alleviate migraine pain. These include bilobalide and terpene lactones. Bilobalide promotes blood circulation, whereas terpene lactones are antioxidants that neutralize reactive radicals.
Biofeedback
Biofeedback is a great way to reduce migraine pain and headache symptoms. It is a relaxation-based treatment that gives you control over your body and its stress reaction. In turn, you can reduce the medication you need to take.
There are several types of biofeedback, but the main goal is to teach you how to relax. The process involves several sensors placed on your body. These devices give you information about how your heart rate, muscle tension, and skin temperature change.
A 2008 study examined the efficacy of biofeedback as a migraine treatment. The results showed that biofeedback significantly reduced headache symptoms and medication consumption.
If you are interested in using biofeedback to manage your migraine, you must find a qualified practitioner who can help you. Check with your doctor or health insurance provider first to see if your plan will cover this type of therapy.
