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Top 10 Super Strong Herbs to Stop Migraine Headaches
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For those who have never experienced a migraine headache, it’s easy to just write them off as being figments of someone’s imagination. Many think that the affected person is looking for attention or that they are a exaggerating. However, for those of you who are familiar with the excruciating pain, the nausea, vomiting, the over sensitivity to sound or light, you know that migraines are no joke.
Certain things are known to trigger migraines, although they aren’t the same for everyone. Common triggers include certain foods, medications, alcohol, stress, cigarette smoke, coffee, or even just bright or flashing lights can bring on an episode.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders estimates that more than 30 million Americans suffer from migraines and seek relief through prescription drugs. However, those who suffer from migraines state that, despite their medications, they still cannot function during a migraine attack and that these prescriptions come with severe side effects.
The actual underlying cause of migraines is still not completely understood but some studies have found that more than 50 percent of those who get migraines are deficient in magnesium. So your first step should be to get plenty of magnesium via foods and supplements. Foods that are high in magnesium are leafy green vegetables, nuts, beans, and seeds.
Since there is plenty of financial gain to be had from migraine sufferers, it should come as no surprise that there has been very little actual research done in the area of herbal solutions. However, we have compiled a list of 10 of the top herbs that do have some research behind them to back up claims that they work against migraines.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any herbal program, especially if you are taking prescription drugs, are pregnant or if you are breastfeeding.
1. Feverfew
Although this is a well-known and long used herb for fighting fevers, which is how it got its name, it is also one of the most effective herbs for fighting migraines. The active ingredient in the leaves and flowers, parthenolide, stop the brain from making chemicals that cause the blood vessels to dilate. Studies show that feverfew can reduce the severity as well as the frequency of migraines. One study showed that when subjects stopped taking a feverfew supplement, which was switched with a placebo without their knowledge, they reported a significant increase the number of migraines, as well as the severity of the headaches. In one large study, feverfew was shown to decrease the number of migraines by as much as 24 percent. Some people have stated that they find relief by making a tea containing a mixture of feverfew and bay leaves.
2. Peppermint
Menthol, the active ingredient in peppermint, has been used for centuries to stop pain, including headaches. One study, performed in 2010, showed that menthol was much more effective than a placebo and can work well as a means of a safe therapeutic alternative for the treatment of migraines. Peppermint essential oil is helpful for migraine headaches due to its cooling properties. Try a cup of peppermint tea or smell peppermint essential oil when you have another migraine attack for some sweet smelling relief.
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