Natural remedies for migraines: From yoga to essential oils, try these home remedies for quick relief

How to prevent migraines: Regular yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines by calming the nervous system (Image: Canva)

Migraines are more than just headaches—they are a neurological condition that can cause severe pain, nausea and light sensitivity. They are often debilitating and can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. They can disrupt your work and other activities, leaving you unable to function throughout the day.

Migraines are known to be triggered by stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, or environmental factors, and while medications are available to treat them, many people also seek natural remedies and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms.

Also read | 8 best foods to cure migraine headaches

Here are some home remedies that will help you find relief from migraines.

Medical treatments for migraines

Over-the-Counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin can be effective for mild to moderate symptoms. Some OTC medications combine pain relievers with caffeine, which can enhance their effectiveness.

Your doctor may prescribe medication like beta-blockers that work by constricting blood vessels and blocking pain pathways in the brain. You may also be prescribed with antidepressants, or anti-seizure drugs in case of severe attacks.

Home remedies and natural treatments for migraines

Identify and avoid triggers:

Keep a migraine diary: Keep a headache diary handy with you and list the triggers, time, duration, and severity. It will help you and your doctor diagnose your condition better and predict a potential migraine attack.

Also read | Migraine: Control headaches, identify triggers, manage pain with these expert tips

Apply cold or hot compresses: A cold compress to your forehead can numb the area and reduce the pain. Apply a warm compress or heating pad to the neck or the back of the head to help relax tense muscles.

Practice relaxation techniques: Regular yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines by calming the nervous system.

Hydrate and eat regularly: Dehydration is a common trigger for migraines, so make sure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day. A balanced diet can help maintain steady blood sugar levels and prevent migraines. Herbal remedies and supplements include ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory properties; and magnesium, which can be consumed as a supplement or by eating foods such as nuts, seeds, and leafy greens.

Essential oils: Applying diluted peppermint oil to the temples can provide relief from migraine pain due to its cooling and soothing properties. Lavender oil also has a calming effect, and can either be inhaled or applied topically.

Maintain a regular sleep schedule: Make sure you sleep at least 7-9 hours per night and keep consistent sleeping and waking hours. Keep your caffeine intake moderate and consistent. While caffeine can help relieve migraines for some people, especially when combined with pain relievers, too much caffeine or withdrawal from it can trigger migraines.

A combination of medical and natural remedies can often help you manage your symptoms effectively. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you suffer from chronic migraines.