Herb
Treatment Support
anti-inflammatory
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule, fresh leaf
Migraine headache
Christopher Hobbs:
“Migraines are a type of headache that occur when blood vessels of the head and neck spasm or constrict, which decreases blood flow. Classical migraines are preceded by an aura, a group of symptoms that indicates a pending migraine headache. Common migraines are not. Migraine headaches can have a genetic component, but they are often related to chronic stress, tension, or food allergies.”
Etiologic and Other Factors Leading to Slow Migraines:
- Etiologic Factors:
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can trigger migraines.
- Genetics: A family history of migraines increases susceptibility.
- Neurological Factors: Imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin can contribute.
- Vascular Issues: Changes in blood flow or pressure may play a role.
- Sensory Triggers: Bright lights, strong smells, or loud noises can set off migraines.
- Lifestyle or Environmental Factors:
- Stress and Anxiety: Chronic stress is a common trigger.
- Dietary Triggers: Caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, or skipped meals.
- Sleep Patterns: Lack of sleep or oversleeping.
- Weather Changes: Barometric pressure shifts.
Signs to Seek Professional Help:
- Severe Symptoms: Intense pain that doesn’t improve with OTC treatments.
- New or Worsening Pattern: A new type of headache or increased frequency/severity.
- Neurological Symptoms: Vision changes, confusion, numbness, or weakness.
- Accompanying Symptoms: Fever, stiff neck, or other signs of an underlying issue.
- Impact on Daily Life: Inability to work, perform daily tasks, or sleep.
Treatment Plan for Migraine headache
Treating at Home with Herbs:
- Suitable Herbs:
- Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium): Known for reducing migraine frequency.
- Butterbur (Petasites hybridus): May alleviate symptoms, but ensure it’s processed for safety.
- Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) or Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) Oil: For topical application or aromatherapy.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale): To reduce nausea and inflammation.
- When to Use Herbs:
- For mild, infrequent migraines without serious neurological symptoms.
- As a preventive measure if triggers are known and managed.
- Precautions:
- Ensure no herb-drug interactions if taking medications.
- Consult a healthcare provider if unsure about safety, especially during pregnancy.
Christopher Hobbs:
“Use relaxing herbs, skeletal antispasmodics, anti-inflammatories, and blood-moving herbs. When the person with migraines is not excessively nervous or deficient, nervous system stimulants can be used in small doses (not more than 2-4 grams/day).”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited and supplemented by Dr. Christopher Hobbs PhD
Herbal Remedies for Migraine headache
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
antispasmodic
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule, tea
Herb
Treatment Support
nervine
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule
Related Migraine headache conditions
Additional Ailment
Herb
Application
No additional ailments found.
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
