By Winslow –
With the rising prices of pharmaceutical medications, a great deal of people are searching for more natural solutions to treat their migraines. Below is a list of herbs thought to be beneficial in the treatment of migraine headaches.
*Disclaimer: This list is not to be used to diagnose, treat or manage any condition. Do not start or stop any treatment without first consulting with your healthcare provider.*
1. Ginger.
Ginger is naturally an anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial substance. It has been used to treat the onset of migraine headaches for thousands of years and is known for easing nausea associated with migraine. Phytotherapy Research released a study that showed that ginger treated headaches in some patients as well as the medication, sumatriptan. Read the study here.
2. Basil.
Basil isn’t just for seasoning your traditional Italian dishes! When used as a tonic, basil has analgesic and warming effects on the body, which may help inflammation and pain caused by migraines. It can also be used as a natural muscle relaxant, which may help soothe fibromyalgia pain as well as ease menstrual cramping.
3. Butterbur.
This herb has natural anti-inflammatory processes which relax the blood vessels in the brain and works as a natural beta-blocker to encourage normal blood flow. It has been used as a natural migraine preventative. Use caution if you are on any blood thinning medications with this herb as it may cause additional issues and drug interactions.
4. Feverfew.
Also known as medieval aspirin or wild chamomile (part of the daisy family), this herb has been used to treat migraine headaches since the dark ages. It has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and is a mild tranquilizer.
5. Valerian.
Ancient Greek and Roman cultures used this herb to treat headaches and insomnia. It has a natural calming effect on the body and is useful in treating tension and stress related headaches. Valerian can be used as a tincture, taken in capsule form, or diffused as an essential oil.
Herbal remedies can sometimes be a great alternative to pharmaceutical medications, but also be advised that just because a substance is natural does not mean it is completely harmless and will not cause side effects or serious interactions. Always research anything you put into your body — this includes medications, herbs, and natural remedies or supplements.
I hope this list provides you with some natural ideas and solutions that improve your migraines.
Love, Win
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