Soak for at least 40 minutes in the bath—the first 20 minutes is to detoxify and relax. The second half allows the body to absorb nutrients through the skin and nose. Use the following guide for how much Epsom salt to add to the bath water. Feel free to add a few drops of the essential oil(s) of your choice: such as peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, marjoram, or basil.
- Children under 60 lbs: ½ cup
- Individuals between 60-100 lbs: 1 cup
- People weighing between 100-150 lbs: 1½ cups
- Individuals between 150-200 lbs: 2 cups
- For every 50lbs more – add an additional ½ cup of salts.
10. Fish Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids can alleviate and prevent migraine pain by reducing inflammation and nourishing the brain, promoting proper neural communication. DPA (Docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) fatty acids in fish oil promote blood flow and heart function, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the constricted vessels in the head and neck. Fish oil and olive oil decrease the frequency and intensity of migraine headaches through these mechanisms. (12)
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of fish oil OR fish oil oral supplements
- 1 glass of orange juice
Directions:
- If you are taking fish oil capsules, follow the dosing on the bottle. If using the actual oil, mix a tablespoon into a glass of cold orange juice and drink up! It’s really not as bad as it sounds.
11. Ginger Tea
Ginger root is a potent anti-inflammatory. It also has the ability to reduce nausea that can accompany migraines. Studies show that using ginger for migraines is as effective as sumatriptan, without any of the drug’s side effects. (13)
You’ll need:
- A 2-inch piece of ginger
- A cup of boiled water
- A teaspoon of honey
- 1/2 teaspoon of lavender flowers
- A tea strainer
Instructions:
- Peel and grate ginger.
- Add ginger and lavender into the strainer and place in the water.
- Steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove strainer and add honey for taste.
12. Butterbur
Of all the traditional migraine remedies out there, butterbur is probably the least known. The root of this plant contains petals in, a substance with anti-inflammatory and vasoactive properties (regulates blood pressure through constriction and relaxation of blood vessels). It has been found extremely effective in preventing recurrent migraines. (14)
Please keep in mind that Neurology Times issued a warning in 2015 that continual long-term use of butterbur can damage the liver by virtue of its constituent pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA). Look for butterbur extract that is certified “PA-free”. (15) Butterbur may, therefore, be a natural migraine remedy that should be used only occasionally.
Butterbur can be taken in several different forms, including consuming it whole or taking in a powder form. It is also available in pill form, tea or as a tincture. An effective dosage of butterbur is 50 to 75 milligrams twice a day.