Is it possible to switch your migraine meds for a natural suppliment for migraine pain?

There might be hope for you migraine sufferers yet.  In previous articles, I said nutrition is key to good health.  I still believe that.  That’s why I wrote this article to give you 12 natural remedies that could be the breakthrough you have been waiting for….

Before trying any natural herb remedy, you should consult your physician. Especially if you have kidney or liver problems, or you are pregnant or nursing.  These remedies are not for children.  If you are taking other medication, tell your doctor, as certain herbs can affect your medication. If you have not heard of these remedies, visit your local natural foods store.  Someone should be able to help you.

1. Feverfew - this herb has been around for centuries. It was used as a folk remedy for several problems like migraine, headache, pain, arthritis and fever. It started in Europe, and made its way to England in the 1980s as a natural remedy for migraines. Research on feverfew is not conclusive.  Not all of the studies verified its effectiveness.  Those allergic to yarrow, chamomile or ragweed, as well as those on blood thinning medicine like NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), aspirin and warfarin (Coumadin), shouldn’t take feverfew. Also, do not take for two to three weeks before or after a surgery or if you have bleeding problems, as feverfew has the potential to increase bleeding time. There are a few side effects, such as nervousness, vomiting, nausea, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
2. 5-HTP - 5-Hydroxytryptophan, this supplement is made from an African plant.  It is used to make serotonin, as well as the melatonin hormone. 5-HTP was researched against two migraine medications, methysergide and propranolol. Six months into the study, 5-HTP was just as effective as methsyergide at lowering the length and severity of the migraines. After four months, 5-HTP and propranolol both did about the same. However, propranolol reduced the length of the migraine. More studies are needed on this supplement. Side effects are diarrhea, nausea and dizziness.  5-HTP should not be given to children with Down’s syndrome. Purity of 5-HTP is in question.  
3. Magnesium - this supplement helps in regulating blood sugar levels, as well as aids in bone health, blood pressure, immune function, normal nerve and muscle function and heart rhythm. It is naturally found in nuts, green leafy vegetables, seeds and whole grains, and a nutritional supplement as well. Diarrhea and digestive irritation were the only complaints.  However, in high doses, magnesium can cause more side effects such as difficulty breathing, irregular heart rate, low blood pressure, loss of appetite, confusion, muscle weakness, diarrhea and nausea. It can conflict with medications like osteoporosis and blood pressure medication (calcium channel blockers), diuretics, antibiotics and muscle relaxants.
4. Butterbur - this is an herb that is used to treat asthma, migraines, allergies, coughs and stomach cramps. Native to North America, Europe and northern Asia, although mild, butterbur can cause side effects like constipation, headache, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea and indigestion. Those who are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemum, marigold or daisy should not take butterbur. Due to a substance known as pyrrolizidine alkaloids, you should not take butterbur in the raw form or use products where raw butterbur is used, as it can be toxic to the kidney and liver and may cause cancer.  
5. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
6. Fish oil
7. Coenzyme Q10 or Co Q10 - ALthough it is a natural compound found in the body talk with your doctor if you have cancer, diabetes, kidney failure, heart disease or if you are pregnant or nursing before taking Co Q10. Co Q10 may not be safe for children. 
8. Acupuncture - used to release the pain-relieving endorphins.
9. Massage Therapy
10. Chiropractic
11. Biofeedback - a fairly new training used to help sufferers control and change consiously the vital functions in the body. 
12. Magnets

Resources:

Wong, Cathy, About.com: Alternative Medicine, Natural Remedies for Migraine Relief, retrieved September 23, 2008 from http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/headachemigraine/a/Migraine.htm

Wong, Cathy, About.com: Alternative Medicine, 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan), retrieved September 23, 2008 from http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsad/a/5HTP.htm

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