Mailbag: Ditch Migraine Pain WITHOUT Drugs
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted October 8, 2024
“Would love to know if there’s anything (other than pharmaceuticals) that can help chronic migraines.”
-Seeking Relief
Hi Seeking,
As you know, migraines cause severe throbbing pain that can be accompanied by light and sound sensitivity, nausea, and even vomiting.
Folks who suffer from chronic migraines can battle headaches 15 or more days a month, with at least eight of those episodes including migraine symptoms. In other words, it’s miserable and clear why you need to find some relief.
The good news is there are definitely some non-pharmaceutical options that can help ease migraine frequency or pain.
It goes without saying that regular sleep, stress management, exercise, and a balanced diet—the pillars of good health—can reduce migraine frequency. Not to mention, identifying and avoiding your own personal migraine triggers (like certain foods or environmental factors) can be a game-changer.
But there are a few more options that are lesser-known:
- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is vital for migraine prevention.
- Acupuncture: Some people find traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture relieves migraine pain.
- Biofeedback: This mind-body technique can help you control some of the physical processes related to migraines.
- Essential oils: Peppermint and lavender oils can ease headache pain when applied topically.
- Massage therapy: Massage helps reduce stress and tension that contribute to migraines.
- Cold or hot compresses: Applying hot or cold compresses to your head or neck can provide some relief during a migraine attack.
In addition, the following supplements have been shown to help reduce the frequency or severity of migraines:
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): This B vitamin has been found to help reduce migraine frequency and severity. I usually suggest taking a vitamin B complex.
- Magnesium: Studies have shown magnesium can be effective for some people.
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): This antioxidant might decrease migraine occurrences.
- Feverfew: The herb feverfew has been traditionally used for headache relief.
- Butterbur: Some studies suggest butterbur can help prevent migraines.
- Vitamin D: D deficiency has been linked to increased migraine frequency.
- 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan): A precursor to serotonin 5-HTP might help with migraines.
Unfortunately, finding the right migraine management strategy is a personal journey. What works wonders for one person might not help another at all.
Experiment with different approaches – from lifestyle tweaks to natural remedies – and pay close attention to how your body responds. Don’t get discouraged if the first few things you try aren’t effective.
With patience and persistence, you’ll likely discover a unique combination that gives you relief. Remember, your ideal solution might involve several different methods working together.
P.S. “Miracle Mineral” slashes migraines.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
BEAT Stubborn Leg Swelling Without Dangerous Diuretics
“I need help with edema.” —Swollen Hi Swollen, When patients complain of edema—fluid retention that causes feet, ankles, and legs to swell—I explain that, while conventional medicine immediately prescribes diuretic drugs, nature offers us effective solutions we can try first. I’ll share those in just a moment, but first, let’s take a quick look at...
Mental Health Linked to 30% FASTER Aging [6-Step FIX]
Your mind and body are more connected than you might realize—and a groundbreaking new study proves just how profound that connection really is. In fact, it’s this mind-body link that helps explain why battling depression can put you on the fast track to physical decline. Depression is the most common mental health condition worldwide. We’ve...
The Air You Breathe Is Silently Stealing Your Memory
You already know that air pollution damages your lungs. Chances are you’ve heard it can also harm your heart. And I bet you won’t be surprised when I tell you it claims millions of lives annually. But now, alarming new research suggests polluted air might also damage your brain. This study found that long-term exposure...
Get Intermittent Fasting Benefits Without Going Hungry
Intermittent fasting, which involves cycling between eating and fasting periods, is effective. There’s plenty of evidence for that. It’s not just weight loss, either. Intermittent fasting has significant benefits for metabolic health. However, many people find fasting difficult to stick to—and others can’t do it at all due to medical issues—so they miss out on...
Just Diagnosed with Hypertension? —6 Things to Do Next
You’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure—now what? First, take a breath. You’re not alone—over 30 percent of adults worldwide have hypertension. That makes it one of the most common health issues… and a top cause of preventable deaths. The good news is that, unlike some conditions that can leave you feeling helpless, high blood...
Brain Games Are USELESS—Do These 5 Things Instead
I’ve seen a lot of lists lately claiming to have the secrets that keep your brain from turning into mush as you age. They typically advise activities such as doing crosswords, learning Spanish, or taking up the accordion. Challenging your mind with new learning experiences is definitely a great way to keep your brain engaged...
This $5 Fix REVERSES Cellular Aging in Just 6 Months
You take your vitamins, eat your vegetables, and feel healthy—so your nutrition is covered… right? Well, new research suggests that even health-conscious older adults may be missing crucial nutrients that keep their cells functioning like those of younger people. The trouble is that as we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing nutrients from...
Mailbag: Doctors Get Bone Health WRONG—Here's What Really Works
“Thank you so much for answering this. With millions of women who are seniors over 70 facing a diagnosis of osteoporosis, this is my question. What can we do naturally to help improve our bone density, especially in the spine lumber 1 and 2? Also, how do we help improve bone density in the femur...
Critical Brain Nutrient Missing In 9 Out of 10 American Diets
You’ve probably heard plenty about brain-boosting omega-3s, antioxidants, and B vitamins. But there’s another nutrient that’s just as critical for your cognitive health. However, it’s been flying under the radar… until now. Mounting evidence suggests this overlooked compound could be key to protecting your brain and enhancing memory. It may even reduce your risk of...
"Miracle Berry" Supercharges Your Microbiome
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads and granddads who’ve shared their wisdom, strength, and love through the years. Thank you for teaching us that the best medicine is laughter, love, and a father’s caring heart. Want to upgrade your health but don’t want complicated diets or expensive supplements? Science just revealed a delicious way...