Home Cures for Migraine Headaches

The name "migraine" derives from the French term for "half a head" because it is typically characterized by a throbbing pain on only one side of the head. There are a number of natural home cures for migraine headaches that can be used to treat this painful, often debilitating condition.

Aromatherapy

• Herbal essential oils can be used to formulate effective home cures for migraine headaches. One such remedy is a blend of lavender, peppermint and chamomile essential oils. Combine 1 tsp. of Sweet Almond Oil with 3 drops Lavender Oil, 3 drops Chamomile Oil, 6 drops of Peppermint Oil. At the onset of a migraine, lightly massage this to your temples and the back of your neck.

Apple Cider

• Pour 1 cup each of apple cider vinegar and water into a small pan. Slowly bring it to a boil. Turn off the heat, and place the pan on a stable surface. Place a towel over your head and lean your face over the pan and inhale the steam from the pan. This will ease your migraine. Reheat the solution as needed.

Acupressure

• Use the thumb and pointer finger (index finger) of one hand to firmly squeeze the web of skin that is between the thumb and finger of the other hand at the point where they meet. Massage or continue to apply pressure for 3 to 5 minutes. Release the pressure and repeat until you get relief.

Shiatsu

• Shiatsu, the traditional Japanese hands-on therapy, offers a number of techniques you may use as home cures for migraine headaches. One of these techniques involves the use of your thumbs to release congested energy from your head to ease your headache. Place both of your thumbs at the base of your skull, just below the bony ridges, with one thumb on each side of your spine. Slightly tilt your head backward, and then apply pressure upward as you breathe deeply.

Feverfew

• The results of a 1997 clinical study by an Israeli research group (see Resources below) showed that, taken on a regular basis, feverfew significantly reduces migraines and their symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and light sensitivity. The curative properties of this herb are attributed to parthenolide, an active chemical compound found in its leaf. Parthenolide has been found to inhibit the release of serotonin from platelets, which is a primary cause of migraines. Feverfew is available at health stores in a fresh or dried leaf form, which you can take as an herbal tea (see Resources below). It is also available as a liquid extract, capsules or tablets.