If you've ever had a
migraine, then you know what I mean about avoiding lights and noise or any
other irritating thing around you. You know the frustration of not being able
to function without complete misery. Migraines can be extremely debilitating as
they affect every aspect of your life. The extreme sensitivities to light and
sound prevent you from normal activities.
Aromatherapy as a treatment
Scientists
centuries ago discovered the use of essential oils for migraine headaches.
Using essential oils is a form of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy doesn't cure the
migraines but simply helps to treat the symptoms by collaborating with the
body's chemistry, and aids in circulation and stress reduction. The best oils
for migraines are natural, originating from plants, so there is less risk of
developing allergies.
Best Essential Oils
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
provides an anti-inflammatory response to migraines. It is used as an
expectorant. It opens the nasal airways and helps to cleanse the body of
impurities and other harmful microorganisms. It can treat emotional imbalances,
mood fluctuations and can regulate blood pressure.
Lavender and Roman
Chamomile Essential Oil also has anti-inflammatory properties and provides
soothing pain relief. These oils are recommended for use at bedtime because of
the soothing effect that leads to sedation or relaxation. Lavender is an excellent
choice to treat anxiety, depression or other neurological conditions that
interfere with normal functionality.
Peppermint Essential Oil
is recognized for its treatment for other ailments in addition to migraines.
Cold, flu, and stomach sensitivities are often treated with this oil. Menthol
is the main ingredient and is known for soothing and relaxing muscle aches. The
inhibiting of muscle contractions cause those muscles to relax. This oil needs
to be mixed with coconut or olive oil. Not with water.
Rosewood Essential Oil
reduces stress and tension and improves circulation. It promotes alertness and
healthy digestion.
Oils for migraine
headaches are safe and effective. They get to the root of the problem. Finding
the triggers of the migraines leads to relief and better quality of life. Most
headaches are a result of stress but there are other factors that trigger
headaches, even migraines. Hormonal imbalances, such as premenstrual syndrome
or menopause, sleep disturbances, allergies and other factors can cause
migraines. They can be used topically or inhaled.
Taming The Beast
Since migraines are
followed by the throbbing pain in the head, nausea, and sensitivities to light
and sound, they are the worst of all the types of headaches. However, headaches
are treated based on their causes:
- Typical migraines are treated best by the use of lavender or peppermint oil (as mentioned above). Gently massage the oil onto the temples and back of the neck.
- Tension headaches are characterized by feelings of pressure. Eucalyptus is used to treat these.
- Sinus headaches are a result of pressure in the sinus cavities. The oil used for this is eucalyptus as well. This will open the nasal passages and allow better flow of air.
- Sugar headaches occur when the blood sugar drops too low. Using equal parts of lavender, rosemary and coconut oil to the back of the neck, the temples and the forehead will help relieve these headaches.
An important tip to using
essential oils for migraine treatment is that you must dilute your oils in some
type of carrier oil. Carrier oils are gentle, pure oils that are not irritating
to the skin. Examples of these oils are sweet almond, apricot kernel, grape
seed and "fractionated" coconut oil, to name a few. The
"fractionated" coconut oil is a scent-less, light-based oil that
washes easily off of fabrics.
What's the Risk?
Using essential oils for
migraine headaches leaves a low tendency for developing a reaction or skin
irritation, but that doesn't mean reactions or irritations can't occur. This is
why you need to use carrier oils to dilute them. If reactions do occur, they
are usually mild, such as a stinging or burning sensation, redness or a rash.
Those with asthma or heart-related conditions may suffer some problems with
oils. Seeking medical advice prior to using oils is advised. Pregnant and
nursing mothers should avoid using lavender and rosemary as those are potent to
infants.
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