Migraine is a severe headache, often with nausea and vomiting and usually felt on one side of the head. These attacks can last up to 72 hours, and may be made worse by movement, noise and light – hence the need to lie down in a darkened room.

Migraine may start with food cravings or changes in mood. Classical migraine may be preceded by an “aura” eg- seeing flashing lights, or smelling food cooking. Visual disturbances may occur, and there may be temporary numbness of the face, and speech problems. Common migraine may occur without any of the aura symptoms.

Factors known to trigger attacks include stress, tiredness, menstrual cycle, certain food and drinks such as chocolate, alcohol, cheese, coffee and red wines – although the precise cause is unclear. It is thought that the levels of the chemical serotonin drop, and lead to the dilatation of blood vessels which in turn causes the characteristic painful, throbbing headache.

Painkillers, often combined with medication to treat nausea and vomiting may help- many of which can be purchased from a chemist.

Consult your doctor if you appear to develop migraine for the first time in adult life, particularly if you are over the age of 35, or if  you find your migraine attacks are happening more frequently,  are more painful, or symptoms have changed.

It may help to take Vitamin B complex, which promotes a healthy nervous system.

Co-enzyme Q10 60mg daily may also help, together with calcium and magnesium supplements.

The herb feverfew can be very effective for the treatment of migraines – other herbs that may help include fenugreek, marshmallow, goldenseal, peppermint, skullcap, valerian and thyme.

Ginkgo Biloba may help the cerebral circulation, and a dose of 200mg rutin daily may also help.

Eat a well balanced diet, and avoid foods that contain tyramine and phenylalanine which include alcohol, bananas, cheese, chocolate, chicken, onions, peanuts, smoked fish, sour cream, vinegar and herrings. Some sufferers have found relief from acupuncture – yoga and other forms of relaxation may also help.

As a Clinical Aromatherapist, the essential oils I would chose would be lavender (high altitude), peppermint and rosemary – these are best applied in a cold compress or as an inhalation, as massage may aggravate a headache. Other oils which may help your symptoms include cajeput, roman chamomile, clary sage, eucalyptus, sweet marjoram, neroli and thyme.

Last Week’s  Article: Flu
Next Week’s Article: Sinusitis

About the Author

This article has been written by Sally Parmer, a Clinical Aromatherapist with over 25 years experience in Nursing, Midwifery and Complementary Therapies. You can find out more about Sally and Pavitra Holistic Therapies at http://www.pavitraholistics.com/