For those of us who suffer from migraines, the onset of a migraine will often result in a lack of productivity at home and at work, and a completely wasted day. It is extremely difficult for us to focus on the task at hand, and we tend to move more slowly. We tend to lose our motivation to do some of the little things that keep us healthy, such as work out, or even to cook a nice meal for the family. Because of this, we are always looking for ways to help get rid of migraines, and preferably in a natural way.
Many doctors agree that aromatherapy, if used properly, can be an excellent complementary therapy for the migraine sufferer. Aromatherapy is not known to actually eliminate migraine headaches, but when used to complement traditional therapy and medication it can help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.
Aromatherapy is a natural healing alternative that uses plant-derived essential oils to achieve a desired therapeutic effect. It is unknown precisely how aromatherapy works, whether it is the scent or a chemical action of the essential oil itself that provides relief. Because of this unknown factor some physicians worry about potential essential oil interactions with standard drugs used in treating migraines.
When trying aromatherapy to relieve migraines, keep in mind a few safety precautions.
* Always talk to a doctor before trying anything new.
* Speak to an experienced aromatherapist, if possible.
* When combining aromatherapy with other medications, be sure to watch for adverse reactions and report them to a doctor immediately if they occur.
* Buy real plant-derived essential oils designed for aromatherapy. The better products will be sold in dark containers and stored away from direct sunlight.
* Use a carrier oil or aromatherapy diffuser. Essential oils can be powerful irritants and should not be applied directly to the skin.
Essential oils can be employed in variety of ways. They can be used in an aromatherapy diffuser and inhaled two or three times daily. The oils may be added to a large bowl of hot water and the aroma inhaled with the eyes closed. While the essential oils can also be added to carrier bath, face, or massage oils and applied to the body or bath, this should only be done after consulting with a knowledgeable aroma therapist.
Some of the essential oils commonly recommended for migraine aromatherapy are lavender, peppermint, rosemary, eucalyptus, sandalwood, clary sage, ginger, ylang-ylang, basil, marjoram, and chamomile.
As mentioned, aroma therapy is not a replacement regimen for migraine treatment. However, it can help reduce the symptoms of migraine, and enhance treatment with normal medication. As such, anyone who suffers from migraines should give some thought to employing aroma therapy in their treatment.
A long time sufferer of headaches and migraines, Scott Cole advocates natural treatments for both at http://www.whatareheadaches.com/
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