Migraines, which are frequent and sometimes very debilitating, disrupt the daily lives of many people.
Fortunately, natural solutions exist to lessen the intensity. Essential oils, herbs, supplements… Discover our top 4 natural remedies to relieve migraines and achieve lasting well-being.
What is a migraine?
Migraine is a complex neurological disorder characterized by recurring attacks of intense headaches, often localized to one side of the head. These headaches may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) or sound (phonophobia). Attacks can last from a few hours to several days and significantly impair quality of life.
Differences between migraine and headache
It is essential to distinguish a migraine from a simple headache. While a tension headache (the classic headache) causes diffuse and moderate pain, a migraine is characterized by intense, throbbing, and localized pain. Furthermore, migraines are frequently accompanied by neurological symptoms (aura, nausea), which is not the case with a simple headache.
The best natural remedies for migraines
To soothe migraines, several natural solutions have proven effective:
1. Peppermint Essential Oil: an ally for relieving a migraine
Applied topically to the temples and forehead, Peppermint Essential Oil provides an immediate cooling sensation and acts as a natural pain reliever. Its vasoconstrictive effect helps reduce the throbbing pain characteristic of migraines. One or two drops diluted in a carrier oil are enough to relieve cranial tension.
How to use it? Apply 1 drop diluted in a neutral base to the temples, forehead, or nape of the neck. Massage gently, avoiding contact with the eyes. The cooling effect is immediate and can relieve pain within minutes.
2. Feverfew: a powerful plant against migraines
Traditionally used since antiquity, feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. It reduces the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks when consumed regularly as a dietary supplement or herbal tea.
And what about Roman Chamomile Essential Oil? Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) Essential Oil is also very effective. It has remarkable calming properties , soothes the nervous system, and can be used in massage or diffusion to prevent or manage an attack.
3. The effectiveness of ginger against headaches
Ginger is a well-known natural anti-inflammatory , particularly for relieving nausea associated with migraines. A study published in 2014 in the journal Phytotherapy Research demonstrated that 250 mg of powdered ginger was as effective as a migraine medication in relieving mild to moderate attacks.
How to use it? Infuse a few slices of fresh ginger in hot water for 10 minutes. You can also opt for capsules or powdered ginger, depending on your preference.
And what about Ginger Essential Oil? Ginger essential oil (Zingiber officinale) can also be beneficial thanks to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-nausea properties. It can be used in a local massage, diluted in a carrier oil, on the temples or nape of the neck, or diffused for a stimulating and soothing effect.
To learn more about essential oils to use in case of headaches .
4. Dietary supplements and anti-migraine roll-ons
For those seeking a natural, practical, and comprehensive solution, Pranarôm's Aromalgic headache tablets combine the benefits of the essential oils and plants mentioned above. They contain ginger , peppermint , and feverfew , in a synergistic blend of plant extracts, 100% organic essential oils, vitamins, and minerals.
This formula has been specially designed to target both the symptoms and the causes of headaches: stress, muscle tension, digestive problems, and nervous fatigue. Enriched with magnesium bisglycinate and vitamin B2 , these tablets also help prevent recurrences by supporting the nervous system.
Presented in the form of breakable tablets, they easily adapt to your lifestyle and can effectively complement your natural wellness routines.
In addition, the Aromalgic Head Roll-on is ideal for quick, localized relief . Its metal rollerball provides an immediate cooling effect, enhanced by a synergy of powerful essential oils: Peppermint , Spearmint , Rosemary (cineole type) , Cajeput , Copaiba , and Lemon . This refreshing and soothing blend is recommended for feelings of heaviness in the head, mental fatigue, or before periods of intense concentration (meetings, exams, car journeys, etc.).
Easy to slip into a bag, this roll-on is applied directly to the temples or the back of the neck for quick relief. For optimal effectiveness, it can be used in conjunction with Aromalgic Headache tablets .
Habits to adopt to combat migraines
Beyond natural remedies, adopting healthy lifestyle habits is essential for preventing migraine attacks . Indeed, migraines don't occur randomly: they are often the result of a predisposition and specific triggering factors (stress, diet, dehydration, lack of sleep, etc.).
Establishing a kind and balanced routine can greatly reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks. This involves improving your lifestyle, listening attentively to your body, and implementing simple yet effective practices. Here are some practical tips to incorporate into your daily life to take care of your mind, naturally.
Drink more water: hydration, a natural remedy for migraines
Dehydration is among the most common causes of migraines. When the body lacks water, it reacts by reducing blood flow to certain areas, including the brain, which can trigger or intensify pain. Migraines related to dehydration are often accompanied by fatigue, dizziness, or confusion.
Drinking enough water throughout the day is therefore a simple but fundamental step to prevent attacks , especially in hot weather, after physical activity, or during periods of stress. Ideally, hydration should be spread out regularly rather than drinking large quantities all at once.
Applying cold compresses can quickly relieve a migraine.
Cold has a vasoconstrictive effect that can relieve pain by reducing inflammation.
Our advice: apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the forehead, side of the head or nape of the neck for 15 minutes.
Acupuncture for chronic migraines
This ancient practice, originating from traditional Chinese medicine, is based on the stimulation of specific points on the body using fine needles.
In the case of migraines , acupuncture aims to relieve pain, but also to act in depth on the potential causes: nervous tension, digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances or poor energy circulation in the head region.
Acupuncture can thus be integrated into a holistic and preventative approach, complementing other solutions such as essential oils, medicinal plants, or meditation. One to two sessions per month, as a course of treatment or for maintenance, may be enough to restore better balance and reduce the frequency of attacks in the long term.
Relaxation and meditation: natural tips to combat migraines
Stress is an aggravating factor. Mindfulness meditation, yoga, or heart coherence exercises can help prevent attacks by reducing nervous tension.
Sleep better to naturally combat migraines
Poor or irregular sleep can contribute to migraines. Make sure you have a regular bedtime, avoid screens before bed, and create a relaxing environment conducive to falling asleep.
Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet to avoid migraines
Diet plays an essential role in preventing migraines.
Limit foods rich in histamine, such as aged cheeses, cured meats, red wine, and smoked fish, which are known to trigger migraines in susceptible individuals. Similarly, food additives (glutamate, colorings, preservatives), artificial sweeteners (aspartame), and refined sugars can disrupt neurovascular balance.
Prioritize fresh fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants and help neutralize oxidative stress and soothe inflammation. Oily fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Flax, chia, and hemp seeds, as well as nuts, also provide essential fatty acids that are beneficial for the brain and nervous system.
Certain plants or spices such as turmeric, ginger and rosemary can be incorporated into your dishes to enhance the protective effect of your meal.
Relieving migraines naturally is possible thanks to a holistic approach combining medicinal plants, essential oils, targeted food supplements and lifestyle.
