Those who suffer from migraine pain are no strangers to experimentation when it comes to alternative migraine treatments. Sometimes, the pain is so severe that you’ll do just about anything to make it go away—even if the method seems a bit unconventional.
The good news is there are many alternative migraine treatment options available to choose from. The bad news is, it’s not easy to sift through the clutter to find what actually works—and beyond that, there’s the added complication of finding the right treatment for you.
To help demystify your options for we rounded up some of the most popular alternative migraine treatments available to find out what’s real, what’s not, and what you should know.
What are alternative migraine treatments?
Acupuncture, for example, is an ancient Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This practice has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including migraines. Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms and can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Biofeedback is another alternative treatment for migraines. It involves using electronic sensors to monitor body functions such as heart rate, muscle tension, and blood pressure. By becoming more aware of these bodily functions, individuals can learn how to control them and reduce stress and tension, which can trigger migraines.
Yoga is an ancient practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. This practice has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines. By practicing yoga regularly, individuals can learn how to reduce stress and tension in the body, which can help prevent migraines from occurring.
Massage therapy is another alternative treatment for migraines that involves the manipulation of muscles and soft tissues in the body to promote relaxation and reduce tension. This practice has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Massage therapy can help reduce stress and tension in the body, which can trigger migraines.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that are used for a variety of therapeutic purposes. Some essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint, have been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. These oils can be applied topically or inhaled through a diffuser.
Chiropractic care is another alternative treatment for migraines that involves the manipulation of the spine and other joints in the body to promote healing and reduce pain. This practice has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Chiropractic care can help reduce tension in the neck and shoulders, which can trigger migraines.
Overall, alternative migraine treatments offer a variety of options for individuals seeking non-pharmaceutical ways to manage their symptoms. These treatments can be used alone or in combination with conventional medications for optimal management of migraines.
What you should know before seeking complementary treatments?
Before seeking complementary or alternative treatments for migraines, there are a few important things you should know:
1.Consult with a healthcare professional: It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, including complementary or alternative therapies. They can help you determine if a particular treatment is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
2.Be aware of potential risks: While many complementary and alternative treatments are generally safe, some may carry risks, such as side effects or interactions with other medications. It’s important to research potential risks before starting any new treatment.
3.Be patient: Some complementary or alternative treatments may take time to show results. It’s important to be patient and consistent with your treatment plan in order to see the full benefits.
4.Be open-minded: Complementary and alternative treatments may not work for everyone, but it’s important to keep an open mind and explore different options. What works for one person may not work for another, so it’s important to find the treatment that works best for you.
5.Don’t rely solely on alternative treatments: While complementary and alternative treatments can be effective in managing migraines, it’s important not to rely solely on these treatments. It’s important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include conventional medications and lifestyle changes.
By keeping these things in mind, you can make an informed decision about whether complementary or alternative treatments are right for you and your individual needs.
Daith piercing
Daith piercings
have gained popularity as a potential alternative treatment for migraines. This type of piercing involves piercing the innermost cartilage fold of the ear. Some people claim that this piercing can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support the use of daith piercings for migraine treatment. While there are anecdotal reports of success, it’s important to remember that these are not backed by scientific research.
Additionally, daith piercings carry risks, including infection and bleeding. It’s important to have the piercing done by a professional and to follow proper aftercare instructions to reduce the risk of complications.
If you are considering a daith piercing as a potential treatment for migraines, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first. They can help you determine if this treatment is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. They may also be able to recommend other treatments that have been scientifically proven to be effective for migraine management.
Migraine headbands
Migraine headbands are a type of wearable device that some people use to help manage their migraines. These headbands typically work by applying pressure to specific points on the head, which may help alleviate migraine symptoms such as pain and nausea.
Some migraine headbands also incorporate cooling or heating elements, which can provide additional relief for some people. These devices are often marketed as a drug-free alternative to traditional migraine medications.
While some people find migraine headbands to be helpful, there is limited scientific evidence to support their use. Additionally, they may not be effective for everyone, and some people may experience discomfort or irritation from wearing them.
If you are considering using a migraine headband as a potential treatment for migraines, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first. They can help you determine if this treatment is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. They may also be able to recommend other treatments that have been scientifically proven to be effective for migraine management
Marijuana and CBD
Marijuana and CBD (cannabidiol) are two substances that have been touted as potential treatments for migraines.
Marijuana contains the psychoactive compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which can have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. However, marijuana is illegal in many parts of the world and is not considered a first-line treatment for migraines.
CBD, on the other hand, does not have psychoactive effects and is legal in many parts of the world. Some studies have suggested that CBD may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, which could make it a potential treatment for migraines.
While there is some scientific evidence to support the use of marijuana and CBD for migraine treatment, more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness and safety. Additionally, both substances carry risks and can have side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and changes in appetite.
If you are considering using marijuana or CBD as a potential treatment for migraines, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first. They can help you determine if these treatments are safe and appropriate for your individual needs. They may also be able to recommend other treatments that have been scientifically proven to be effective for migraine management.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an alternative treatment that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and is often used as a complementary therapy for a variety of conditions, including migraines.
Some studies have suggested that acupuncture may be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. It is thought that acupuncture may work by stimulating the body’s natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory responses.
While acupuncture is generally considered safe, it does carry some risks, including infection and bleeding. It is important to have the treatment done by a licensed and trained acupuncturist to reduce the risk of complications.
If you are considering acupuncture as a potential treatment for migraines, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first. They can help you determine if this treatment is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. They may also be able to recommend other treatments that have been scientifically proven to be effective for migraine management.
Supplements and vitamins
Supplements and vitamins are often used as complementary therapies for migraines. Some supplements that have been suggested to have potential benefits for migraines include:
- Magnesium: This mineral is involved in many bodily functions and may have a role in migraine prevention. Some studies have suggested that magnesium supplements may reduce the frequency and severity of migraines in certain individuals.
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): This vitamin is involved in energy production and may also have a role in migraine prevention. Some studies have suggested that riboflavin supplements may reduce the frequency of migraines in certain individuals.
- Coenzyme Q10: This is an antioxidant that is involved in energy production. Some studies have suggested that coenzyme Q10 supplements may reduce the frequency and severity of migraines in certain individuals.
- Feverfew: This herb has been traditionally used as a treatment for migraines. Some studies have suggested that feverfew supplements may reduce the frequency and severity of migraines in certain individuals.
While some studies have suggested potential benefits for these supplements and vitamins, more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness and safety. Additionally, they may not be effective for everyone, and some people may experience side effects or interactions with other medications.
If you are considering using supplements or vitamins as a potential treatment for migraines, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first. They can help you determine if these treatments are safe and appropriate for your individual needs. They may also be able to recommend other treatments that have been scientifically proven to be effective for migraine management.
Aromatherapy and essential oils
Aromatherapy is an alternative treatment that involves the use of essential oils to promote health and well-being. Essential oils are concentrated extracts from plants that are believed to have therapeutic properties. Some essential oils that have been suggested to have potential benefits for migraines include:
- Peppermint oil: This oil is believed to have a cooling and soothing effect that can help to relieve headache pain. It may also have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Lavender oil: This oil is believed to have a calming and relaxing effect that can help to relieve stress and tension. It may also have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Rosemary oil: This oil is believed to have a stimulating effect that can help to improve circulation and reduce headache pain. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties.
While some studies have suggested potential benefits for these essential oils, more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness and safety. Additionally, they may not be effective for everyone, and some people may experience skin irritation or other side effects.
If you are considering using aromatherapy or essential oils as a potential treatment for migraines, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first. They can help you determine if these treatments are safe and appropriate for your individual needs. They may also be able to recommend other treatments that have been scientifically proven to be effective for migraine management.
Stress management
Stress is a common trigger for migraines, so stress management techniques may be helpful for preventing or reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Some stress management techniques that may be helpful for migraine management include:
- Relaxation techniques: These can include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery. These techniques can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
- Mindfulness meditation: This technique involves focusing on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. It can help to reduce stress and promote feelings of calmness and well-being.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can help to reduce stress and improve overall health. It can also help to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
- Sleep: Getting adequate sleep is important for overall health and can also help to reduce stress levels. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and practicing good sleep hygiene can be helpful for migraine management.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This form of therapy involves identifying negative thought patterns and behaviors and replacing them with more positive ones. It can help to reduce stress and improve coping skills.
In addition to these techniques, it’s also important to make lifestyle changes that can help to reduce stress levels. This may include maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding or limiting caffeine and alcohol, and practicing good time management skills.
If you are experiencing migraines and think that stress may be a trigger, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that may include stress management techniques, as well as other treatments that have been scientifically proven to be effective for migraine management
What’s the best alternative treatment for you?
The best alternative treatment for migraines can vary from person to person, as everyone’s individual needs and preferences are different. It’s important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account your specific symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors.
Some alternative treatments that may be effective for some people include acupuncture, yoga, massage therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Additionally, supplements such as magnesium, riboflavin, and CoQ10 have shown promise in some studies for reducing migraine frequency and severity.
It’s important to keep in mind that while some alternative treatments may have potential benefits, they may not be effective for everyone, and some may have potential side effects or interactions with other medications. It’s also important to be cautious of treatments that make unrealistic or unsupported claims.
Ultimately, the best alternative treatment for migraines is one that is safe, effective, and tailored to your individual needs. It’s important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that works best for you.