Find Relief From Migraines

Nobody wants to experience a headache, much less a migraine. This most intense form of headache is known to have other symptoms such as nausea, numbness or tingling, difficulty with speech, and light sensitivity. They can certainly be debilitating and any who suffer would want to find relief from migraines.

There are a variety of medications that are used to “treat” migraines. Unfortunately, they also can have major, long term effects on the gastrointestinal tract which can then create disease elsewhere.

What’s In Your Toolbox?

For real-time migraine relief, it’s important to take action as soon as the first inklings of one appear. If you have had migraines often, you know the signs.

Essential Oils – a combination of Lavender and Peppermint essential oils can be quite powerful if used quickly and repeatedly. Inhale the Lavender frequently and apply both topically to the temples, forehead and pulse points. I find that putting Lavender in a diffuser set near me, or adding a drop on a small cotton ball that I place in my nostril supports inhaling it. If your skin is sensitive, I recommend that you add Peppermint oil to a drop of coconut oil before applying to your skin.

Nutrient replenishment is also vital for relief. It can take 2-3 months to achieve full effectiveness, so it is important to be consistent and patient as you support your body with these nutrients:

Riboflavin – yes, the lowly Vitamin B2 is a powerful remedy for migraine. You will need 400-500mg once daily with food.
Magnesium – I have written often about how pervasive our magnesium deficiency is nationwide. Given magnesium’s benefit in relaxing tissue, it’s not surprising that a deficiency plays a part in migraines. I recommend 400mg of the threonate or taurate form twice daily with food.
CoQ10 – many migraines are triggered and exacerbated by poor energy generation in our cell’s mitochondria, which are in higher concentrations in our brain and muscles. I recommend 150mg of the Ubiquinol form twice daily with food.
Butterbur – for prevention of more frequent or debilitating migraines, I recommend adding this herbal extract in 100mg portions once or twice a day. It is also effective for seasonal allergies.

Look For The Root Cause

In the true spirit of Functional Medicine, I would not stop with just supporting Relief for my clients, but would continue to support each unique client in exploring and identifying specific Root Causes of their migraines. Migraines often are triggered by environmental sensitivities, including certain foods:

• Foods containing tyramine, such as aged cheeses, wine, or cured meats
• Foods containing gluten – breads, baked goods, beer, pizza, bagels, etc.
• Processed food preservatives, such as MSG, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners (especially aspartame – the blue packet)
• Yeast or mold-containing foods – beer, cheese, dried fruit, miso, breads
• Chocolate – shocking, but for some it is a trigger

If you or someone you love have a history of migraines, wouldn’t you want to find out why and support true healing rather than just maintenance? I encourage you to take the lead in your own health and press for answers to support your unique body. You and your future are worth it!