8 Must Try Remedies To Treat Migraine At Home

Reducing migraine symptoms might be possible by steering clear of known triggers, including specific foods and additives. Practices like staying well-hydrated and doing yoga could also be beneficial.

Migraine attacks differ significantly from regular headaches, often causing throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. These episodes can disrupt daily activities, such as attending work or school.

Natural remedies might help prevent migraines or at least lessen their severity and duration, aiding in daily functioning. These methods provide a drug-free approach to alleviating migraine symptoms.

Continue reading as we explore 8 natural remedies that could assist in managing migraine symptoms.

Please note that migraines may require treatment with prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications. If you frequently suffer from migraines, it’s essential to consult a doctor to develop an effective treatment plan.

# Lavender oil

Inhaling lavender essential oil might alleviate migraine pain. You can inhale lavender oil directly or dilute it with a carrier oil and apply a small amount to your temples.

A 2016 randomized controlled study indicated that using lavender therapy prophylactically (before a migraine starts) over three months reduced the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Nevertheless, research in this area remains limited.

# Avoiding certain foods

Diet plays a crucial role in preventing migraine attacks. Several foods and beverages are known to potentially trigger migraines, including:

Foods high in nitrates, such as hot dogs, deli meats, bacon, and sausage
Chocolate
Aged cheeses containing tyramine, like blue cheese, feta, cheddar, Parmesan, and Swiss
Alcohol, particularly red wine
Very cold foods, such as ice cream or iced drinks
Processed foods
Pickled foods
Beans
Dried fruits
Cultured dairy products like buttermilk, sour cream, and yogurt

In some individuals, a small amount of caffeine may help alleviate migraine pain. Caffeine is also present in certain migraine medications. However, excessive caffeine intake can potentially trigger migraines, and abrupt reduction in caffeine consumption may cause withdrawal headaches.

Consider maintaining a daily food journal to pinpoint which foods and drinks trigger your migraine attacks. This journal can track everything you eat and allow you to note how you feel afterward.

# Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the skin to alleviate various health conditions.

A randomized controlled study in 2020 found that 20 sessions of manual acupuncture, alongside standard care, were more effective in preventing migraines in individuals with a history of episodic migraine without aura compared to sham acupuncture, where needles are inserted less deeply.

# Feverfew

Feverfew, a daisy-like flowering herb, is a traditional remedy for migraines. While research on its effectiveness is limited, some evidence suggests it may be slightly more effective than a placebo in treating migraines. A 2019 study indicated it might reduce the intensity of tension headaches, potentially benefiting migraine symptoms, but further research is needed.

# Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil contains menthol, which may help prevent migraine episodes, although research is sparse. In a 2019 study, nasal application of 4% lidocaine with 1.5% peppermint essential oil showed significant improvement in symptoms for 40% of participants, compared to 4.9% in the placebo group. Limited evidence suggests topical peppermint oil might also help with tension headaches.

# Ginger

Ginger is known for alleviating nausea associated with various conditions, including migraines, and may have pain-relieving properties during migraine attacks. A 2020 review noted one study indicating ginger had similar efficacy to the migraine medication sumatriptan but with a potentially better side effect profile. However, more research is necessary to fully understand ginger's role in treating migraine pain.

# Yoga

Yoga incorporates breathing exercises, meditation, and physical postures to enhance overall health. A 2015 study suggested yoga could reduce the frequency, duration, and intensity of migraine attacks by alleviating anxiety, releasing tension in migraine-trigger areas, and promoting vascular health. Researchers concluded that yoga might be beneficial as a complementary therapy for managing migraines.

# Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a relaxation technique that helps individuals control autonomic responses to stress by monitoring physiological processes like heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension using electrodes placed on the skin.

According to a 2019 study, mind-body interventions such as biofeedback and cognitive behavioral therapy have strong evidence supporting their efficacy in treating migraines, with minimal side effects.