Migraine headache refers to the severe, usually one-sided, throbbing headache which is often associated with vomiting, nausea, or extreme sensitivity to light or sound. Its pains which are recurring can last from four hours to as long as three days.
Many people consider migraine headaches as a condition without effective treatment. But many herbalists assert that there are a lot of herbs which can help to alleviate the condition. You just have to seek professional advice before taking herbal treatments to avoid side effects.
Here are some herbs that you can use as an alternative treatment for migraine headaches:
1. Butterbur
Butterbur is a perennial waterside plant native to Eurasia. A 2004 study conducted by the University of Michigan suggests that butterbur can help to reduce the inflammation of blood vessels and other tissues which are affected by the condition.
It is also believed to regulate neurotransmitters in the brain and alleviate migraine, but it has a downside because it has a potential to cause liver damage when taken in excessively.
According to herbalists, taking 50 to 75 mg of standardized butterbur extract two times a day can help to relieve migraines. You just have to avoid taking the extract if you are a pregnant or breastfeeding woman.
Avoid extracting butterbur yourself. Raw butterbur root is toxic.
2. Feverfew
Many people use feverfew to relieve symptoms associated with migraine headaches. A study conducted by Yale University in 2001 found that feverfew contains parthenolide, a substance that helps to reduce inflammation. The recommended dose of feverfew for migraine relief is between 50 – 80 mg per day.
Taking feverfew supplement is prohibited on people who are taking anticoagulants, as it is also associated with the risk of bleeding. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are also discouraged from taking the herbal supplement to avoid complications.
3. Willow Bark
Willow bark is known for its ability to treat headaches, fever and pain, and it had been used by many people for generations. It is also thought to cause lesser gastrointestinal side effects than some common medications. Treat your migraine by taking 60 to 240 mg of standardized willow bark per day.
Willow bark is not recommended for people with diabetes, ulcers and asthma.
4. Passion Flower
Passion flower effect that induces sleep. It is also believed to contain pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. These attributes help to make passion flower work to provide relief from migraine headaches.
5. Peppermint
You can either drink peppermint as a tea supplement or as an essential oil to alleviate migraines. To use it as an aromatherapy product, just simply inhale its scent directly from the bottle or or add a few drops of it to a glass of hot water to inhale its vapors.
6. Ginko Biloba
Ginko is believed to improve the blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain – to relieve headaches and to enhance brain power. This herb is also believed to trigger the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that helps to prevent headaches.
These are some of the known herbs which are known to alleviate migraine headaches. You should always seek professional advice when you plan to use them. It can help to keep you away from complications.
