Migraine attacks can be debilitating. They can cause nausea, dizziness, and even complete paralysis. Although they can stop most types of headache pain, over-the-counter pain relievers rarely treat migraine pain. Although prescription medications can be effective in relieving migraines, there are risks and side effects that can occur. Some of these side effects can be quite severe.
Natural Remedies
There are many natural remedies that can provide effective migraine relief.
- Magnesium: Numerous studies have shown magnesium to be effective in reducing migraine severity and frequency. One study compared a group that took 600mg of oral magnesium daily to a placebo group. The frequency of migraines in the magnesium group decreased by 42 percent, while the placebo group experienced a 16 percent decrease. This mineral can be found in whole grains, nuts, green leafy vegetables, and seeds. It is also common in nutritional supplements. Magnesium can cause nausea, weakness of the muscles, diarrhea, and irritation, and may interact with certain medications. Before taking high doses of magnesium, consult your doctor.
- 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan): This compound is produced in the body tryptophan and is used to make the neurotransmitter serotonin and the sleep hormone melatonin. Studies have shown that 5-HTP may reduce migraines’ severity and frequency, and even prevent them altogether. One study found that half of the participants were given 600mg of 5-HTP daily, while the other half received the migraine drug methysergide. In this study, 5-HTP was just as effective as methysergide in reducing migraine severity and duration.
- Feverfew (Tanacetum Parthenium): This herb has been used for migraine relief since more than a century. It can also be used to treat headaches, arthritis, and other pains. This folk remedy is supported by scientific studies that show feverfew to be effective in the prevention and treatment of migraines. Feverfew can be a potent herb. It can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, nervousness and abdominal pain. Feverfew can increase bleeding time, so people with bleeding disorders should avoid it. This herb can also interact with blood-thinning medication. Before adding supplements, consult your doctor. People with allergies to yarrow or ragweed, chamomile, and ragweed, should not take feverfew. Feverfew can cause more side effects than the natural migraine remedies. However, it has fewer side effect than prescription medications used to treat migraines.
Conclusion
Headaches are the most common complaint. Migraines are the most severe and debilitating type. Migraines sufferers will try anything to alleviate their pain. Before making a decision on migraine treatment or health plans, it is important to compare the side effects and results of each option.