Organic Migraine Remedies

Migraine headaches affect more than 29.5 million people in the United States, according to the National Headache Foundation. Generally lasting only a few hours, a migraine's aftermath can be felt for several days, leading patients in search of treatments beyond regular prescription medications. While there has been great advancement in the treatment of migraines, many of the newer prescription drugs are incompatible with patients who suffer from blood pressure instability or other cardiovascular disorders. Migraines can be triggered by environmental factors or consuming various foods. Knowing these triggers can help avoid the pain, but treating it can be a different story.

Diet Guidelines

• Diet changes can relieve migraine pain at the onset as well as prevent migraine pain in the future. Caffeine, while commonly known as a migraine trigger, can bring relief to some. Consuming a can of soda or a cup of coffee at the onset of pain can cause the stimulation needed to relieve the pressure of a migraine.
  Calcium intake will prevent migraine pain from developing in the future as well as reduce the pain of an attack. However, avoid dairy products as they can worsen or trigger a migraine. The best calcium sources for migraine pain are green leafy vegetables or a daily calcium tablet. Another mineral, magnesium, is found commonly in foods and relieves the presence of a migraine. It is essential for normal function of blood vessels; low levels can bring on a migraine.

Herbal Supplements

• Organic, herbal supplements will relieve migraine pressure as well as help prevent an attack. Ginger consumed in tea or powder form will relieve migraine pain. Consume a dose of one half to one teaspoon of ginger at the onset of pain. The relaxing impact of ginger leads to a relief in pressure and pain.
  Lavender oil applied topically to the area of pain also has a calming effect, as does ginger. This oil's aroma relieves nervous exhaustion, reducing pain. Using the same course of treatment, cayenne can be applied to the area of pain. This anti-inflammatory increases circulation, causing a reduction on pain.
  Ginko or passion flower are excellent organic remedies to migraine pain. Ginko produces arterial and venous changes, which increases cerebral blood flow. This increased flow of blood supply will decrease blood vessel spasms and pain. Passion flower offers a calming effect and acts as a sedative, reducing pain. Migraine sufferers taking an MAO inhibitor should avoid using the passion flower as a pain reliever.