The Best Vitamins and Supplements for Migraine

Homeopathy is an alternative form of medicine from more than 200 years ago. It is a medical system based on the belief that the body can cure itself. Those who practice it use small amounts of natural substances, like plants and minerals which stimulate the healing process. Homeopathic medicine also treats the individual rather than the symptoms alone.

Supplements and vitamins have been shown to reduce migraine frequency, or the severity of migraine headaches, or in some cases, both. According to the American Migraine Foundation, you should expect to wait two to three months to see any results from the supplements used to treat migraine headaches.

These vitamins and minerals are recommended to help prevent migraine attacks.

Vitamin B2

Also known as riboflavin, this vitamin and it's one of eight B vitamins that help convert food into fuel; it also helps metabolize fats and protein. We don't know exactly why B2 helps, but it could be because some people who are deficient in it are more prone to migraine. I

• Recommended dose: 200 mg twice a day

• Side effects: Bright yellow urine, which is a sign of excess riboflavin being excreted.

Vitamin D

This nutrient is found in some foods and helps the body absorb calcium, which is needed to maintain strong bones. Researchers are investigating a link between vitamin D deficiency and migraine; Otherwise it isn't yet clear how vitamin D helps in migraines.

• Recommended dose: 1,000 IU per twice per day.

• Side effects: Generally considered safe, but could potentially cause numerous side effects, especially when taken in excess.

Feverfew

Feverfew is a member of the daisy family and has been used for centuries to treat headaches and other health problems. It's thought to reduce inflammation in blood vessels in the head, which is believed to be one of the features of migraine pain.

• Recommended dose: 50 to 100 mg daily.

• Side effects: Contractions in pregnancy; may cause bleeding, gastrointestinal symptoms, nervousness, dizziness, headache, trouble sleeping, joint stiffness, tiredness, menstrual changes, rash, pounding heart, and weight gain; can increase potency of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin.

Coenzyme Q10

This is a substance found in the body that cells use to produce energy needed for growth and maintenance.

• Recommended dose: 100 mg three times a day

• Side effects: Gastrointestinal symptoms or lowering blood pressure.

• Caveat: There isn't as much evidence for its effectiveness compared to vitamin B2, which can be less expensive.

Magnesium

This mineral, which is found in the body and in many foods, especially high-fiber ones, works by activating enzymes in the body and is crucial to nerve transmission and other important functions. People with migraines may have lower levels of magnesium than those who don't have migraines, which is why it may be effective.

• Recommended dose: 600 mg daily for prevention.

• Side effects: Lower blood pressure, diarrhea.

Melatonin

This hormone is naturally secreted by the pineal gland that signals the brain that it's time for sleep. Poor sleep has been linked to migraines in some people so improving sleep may explain why melatonin reduces migraine frequency.

• Recommended dose: 3 mg at bedtime.

• Side effects: Morning drowsiness and weight loss in some patients.

Ginger

The root of this plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, most often to relieve stomach ailments. It may be effective because it helps relieve nausea, which often accompanies a migraine.

• Recommended dose: A quarter teaspoon of ginger powder mixed with water; some patients find ginger candy effective.

• Side effects: A slight tingly taste to some patients.

Lavender Oil

This essential oil is distilled from the lavender flower or herb and is used medicinally to treat pain and boost mood. Lavender produces slight calming, soothing, and sedative effects when the scent is inhaled, possibly because it reduces stress hormones. Studies have shown, however, that in some people lavender oil can actually trigger migraines.

• Recommended dose: Two to four drops for every two to three cups of boiling water when inhaling; two to four drops without dilution when applying.

• Side effects: Can trigger migraines in some people.

Menthol

The active ingredient in peppermint oil, menthol may have a cooling or soothing effect when applied to the neck and forehead.

• Recommended dose: Available as 6 or 10 percent solution.

• Side effects: Possible mild skin irritation or allergic reaction in some people at application site; avoid getting near eyes.

Two of the best supplements which have helped with my hemiplegic migraine are Magnesium and Ginger. I experience very severe nausea and ginger supplements, including drinking gingerale, really seems to help. I also noticed a difference in the frequency of migraine attacks after I began taking Magnesium supplements. I also love the scent of lavender oil and peppermint oil. I use a diffuser for the lavender oil and roll peppermint oil on my forehead when I have a migraine. I will definitely be trying the other supplements listed to see if they help with my hemiplegic migraine attacks.

Adding vitamins and supplements to your migraine treatment plan may help reduce your migraine symptoms and attacks. Before taking a supplement, always review with your doctor.

Courtesy of brain&life.org