Anybody who suffers from migraine will describe the pain as unbearable, debilitating and not possible to cope with. Unfortunately, most migraine sufferers are not aware at all of the fact that some foods and certain chemicals have negative effect on their systems, this making the condition even worst.
The good news is that there are natural and safe ways to ease migraine pain such as consumption of certain foods, certain herbs, and natural supplements.
Avoid Artificial Sweeteners and Food Additives
Artificial sweeteners, preservatives (MSG) and flavor enhancers, are well-known as migraine triggers. Yet the FDA still allows various products on the market that do contain harmful compounds, such as aspartame, although it is known that it is toxic and has many side effects.It is highly recommended to substitute aspartame, saccharin and Splenda with stevia, a plant that has sweet taste but is completely calorie free and harmless.
Foods that can Trigger Migraines
There are some foods and food products that can trigger migraines, like caffeinated drinks, chocolate, alcohol, sodas, grains that contain gluten, cheese (the aged ones), peanuts, and refined sugar.In order to find out which food causes your migraine, you should experiment by consuming and avoiding particular food in the period of few weeks.
Include Tryptophan
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid which stimulates dopamine production, which releases serotonin. A serotonin flow can relieve migraine by alleviating anxiety and tension, by improving mood, and relaxing the muscles surrounding the scalp capillaries. These foods are rich in tryptophan: red meat, turkey, seeds, legumes, and nuts.Lavender as Analgesic
Lavender reduces the spasms of the muscles in the scalp, around the eyes, and in the neck. It has analgesic effect, and therefore it is widely used to calm both the mind and the body and to soothe the nerves.To make a lavender tea just put 1 tsp. of lavender flowers (dried) in a teacup of boiling water and leave it for fifteen minutes before drinking it.
Butterbur – a Natural beta blocker
Butterbur is a aromatic herb which reduces inflammation and stabilizes blood flow in the brain, thus helping to decrease the intensity of the migraine pain. It is a beta blocker, acting by protecting against spasm in the capillaries, and keeps blood pressure stabile.Note: Always purchase PA-FREE butterbur (meaning it is safe for use because it doesn’t contain any harmful toxins).
Peppermint, Ginger, and Cayenne – Herbs that Relieve Pain Naturally
It may sound incredible, but common herbs like peppermint, ginger and cayenne are exceptionally effective as migraine remedies. Ginger and peppermint, in addition, are helpful when it comes to reducing nausea usually appears as side effect of migraine pain.To prepare it just make a mixture of this three herbs: one tsp. of peppermint (dried), one inch of ginger (fresh), and one pinch of cayenne pepper. Put them in a teacup of boiling water and leave it for fifteen minutes before consuming it.
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