More than 28 million Americans suffer from migraines–chronic headaches that can cause debilitating pain for hours or days. Conventional medication used to treat migraine headaches typically includes a class of drugs called triptans, says Dr. Andrew Weil, integrative physician. The problem with these medications is that they cause serious side-effects. There are a limited number of herbal migraine cures mentioned by Weil, Mayo Clinic experts and the National Migraine Association that may help prevent and treat these painful headaches.
Feverfew
Feverfew leaf is used as a migraine preventive, says the National Migraine Association. Also used as an herbal remedy for arthritis, this herb was studied by the London Migraine Clinic to assess its effectiveness. The National Migraine Association cites a 70 percent success rate among patients who used feverfew to reduce the number of migraines they experienced, as well as the severity of their symptoms. The National Migraine Association states that it is believed that this herb inhibits blood vessel spasms in the brain that trigger migraines. Feverfew may also have other beneficial properties: nausea/vomiting relief, improved digestion, better sleep and relief from dizziness and nerve pressure.
Butterbur
Butterbur, or Petasites hybridus, is purportedly another herbal migraine cure that acts as a preventative. Weil cites an article published in the December 2004 of “Neurology” that indicated that study participants who took two 75-milligram tablets of butterbur extract reduced the frequency of migraines by 48 percent, on average. Weil advises those who choose butterbur to select a product that does not contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may harm the liver. The National Migraine Association states that the typical dose is a 50-milligram capsule, twice daily. Butterbur should be taken with meals.
Other Cures
The Mayo Clinic indicates that butterbur and feverfew should not be used by pregnant women. Certain vitamins and supplements may also prevent migraines or reduce the severity of symptoms, such as vitamin B-2, Coenzyme Q10 supplements and oral magnesium. It’s always best to get your physician’s advice before using herbal migraine treatments. Other natural treatments for migraine headaches suggested by Weil and the Mayo Clinic include acupuncture, biofeedback and massage.
About this Author
Lisa Sefcik has been writing professionally since 1987. Her subject matter includes pet care, travel, consumer reviews, classical music and entertainment. She’s worked as a policy analyst, news reporter and freelance writer/columnist for Cox Publications and numerous national print publications. Sefcik holds a paralegal certification as well as degrees in journalism and piano performance from the University of Texas at Austin.
