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.
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