Menstrual migraines are often triggered by fluctuating hormone levels, typically occurring right before your period, when estrogen and progesterone levels fall. Women may notice a correlation between the arrival of their periods, and the formation of a migraine. Natural cures for migraines can include herbs, relaxation therapy and temperature therapy.
Temperature Treatments
Use various hot and cold compresses, and packs on the body and forehead to ease the pain and pressure of migraines. Apply a cooling pack immediately to the forehead if you begin experiencing a migraine. According to the book, "Alternative Remedies for Common Ailments", ice packs work by constricting the blood vessels in the head, which reduces swelling that accompanies migraines.
Place a hot pad or hot moistened towel on sensitive and tired muscles to soothe aches and pains that can accompany a migraine. This can also help with menstrual cramping.
Relaxation Techniques
Try to relax if you feel a migraine coming on. For most people, emotional factors contribute to migraine pain. Mitigate these by meditating, visualizing a relaxing scene, and deep breathing. Progressive muscle relaxation is a useful tool to relax the body and ease symptoms of migraine headaches. Yoga, meditation tapes and books all provide useful tools in dealing with migraines.
Ginger and Feverfew
According to "The Doctors Book of Herbal Remedies", feverfew is a good choice when it comes to relieving the pain of migraines. It can be used as a preventive measure by taking 125 mg. a day. Along with helping to prevent migraines from occurring, feverfew also helps with symptoms once the migraine has started. It helps reduce nausea, vomiting and the sensitivity to light. It also has a pronounced anti-inflammatory action similar to aspirin, working as a vasodilator.
Ginger is useful for managing the nausea that often occurs with migraines. Make a simple ginger tea by combining one teaspoon of chopped up ginger with one cup of boiling water, steep for 10 minutes, strain and drink to soothe your stomach.
While herbal and natural treatments can work well in treating menstrual migraines, if you are continually plagued with migraines during your menstrual period, consult your physician for more treatment options.
Tags: with migraines
