A migraine is not your ordinary headache. Migraines are recurring and range from moderate to severe. Migraines, unlike the typical headache, last for a few hours and in the most severe cases of migraines have been reported to last for years. The symptoms that accompany migraines can include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, or smell. Migraines are treated with various medications, by removing migraine triggers such as light, sounds, and smells, as well as some old-time remedies:

1. Peppermint oil, capsule, or tea

A highly encouraged natural way of relieving a migraine is by the use of essential oils, such as peppermint oil. Peppermint’s active ingredient, menthol, is used for many things, as well as reducing one’s nausea and migraines when applied to the forehead. It can be found in capsule form or made into tea, making it very convenient and accessible. Adding this ingredient to one’s migraine diet is undoubtedly an excellent means of preventing recurrent migraines.

2. Chocolate and coffee

Contrary to popular belief, a cup of coffee or a few pieces of chocolate can be a good source of relief when it comes to migraines. Not only does it taste great going down in the various ways in which one can consume it, but caffeine, in moderation, can soothe one’s pains triggered by oncoming migraines. So turn off those lights and television, sit back with a cold towel over your eyes and sip away that migraine.

3. Acupuncture

One known remedy that may trigger a little bit of fear is acupuncture. Some may cringe at the idea of being stuck with needles, but acupuncture has been known to do wonders for migraines. More costly than other known remedies, this treatment is usually reserved for chronic migraines. By targeting the right pressure points in one’s body during treatments, a patient can find a reduction of migraines by days, intensity, and frequency.

4. Drink more water

In some cases of migraines, there is a solution that one should consider starting first before moving on to more severe treatment, drinking more water. Many of us have busy lives and are so active that hydrating oneself gets put on the back burner, but if the body lacks hydration, this can trigger migraines. Adding additional intakes of water to one’s migraine diet and replacing lost electrolytes with a sports drink can help reduce migraine symptoms.

5. Ginger

Just like peppermint oil, ginger oil is another essential oil that can be used to counteract a migraine. Ginger oil, when properly diluted, can be used on the temples, back, and other body areas to relieve one’s headaches through massage. The aroma of ginger oil is also known to reduce nausea and stomach aches, which lead to vomiting when one is suffering from migraines.

As we go through life day-to-day, it is necessary when one suffers from migraines to consider first how much hydration has the body received. Moving along to other means such as essential oils and supplements are recommended. Migraines are a huge pain, but they can be conquered by first checking your actions and then your very own pantry. If more invasive treatment is required, making a doctor’s appointment is the best step for further recommendations.