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Migraine attacks can cause significant pain, lasting anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Flashes of light, blind spots, tingling and other symptoms can cause migraine pain to be completely disabling. Many people who suffer from migraines turn to medication for pain relief. While certain medications can help relieve migraine symptoms, they can also cause unwanted side effects.

Thankfully, there are more natural ways to relieve migraine pain and symptoms. And you probably have everything that you need lying around your house. The next time you feel a painful migraine coming on, try one of these remedies before reaching for pain pills:

1. A Cold Compress

Many people use temperature therapy to relieve pain. Applying a cold compress can create a numbing effect, which helps to dull the sensation of pain. A cold compress will also help to shrink your blood vessels and improve circulation in the area. You just need a few ice cubes and a cotton cloth. To apply a cold compress:

  1. Wrap some ice cubes in a cotton cloth
  2. Grab the corners and tie them
  3. Apply the compress on your head for 15 minutes
  4. Make sure you keep moving it the cold compress around instead of holding it on one spot on your forehead

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar can be used for many natural health remedies. It’s high in vitamins and minerals which gives the immune system a boost. By delivering vital nutrients to the body, apple cider vinegar helps balance your body and treat the symptoms of a migraine. You’ll need apple cider vinegar, honey and water. Here’s how to use apple cider vinegar for a migraine:

  1. Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to 3/4 of a glass of water
  2. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the mixture
  3. Use a spoon to thoroughly mix the ingredients
  4. Drink this mixture twice a day for migraine pain relief

3. Peppermint Oil

Many people find the the aroma of peppermint oil very soothing. It can be used to help ease pain and discomfort from a migraine. All you need is some peppermint oil, which you can find online or at some health food stores. Here’s how to use peppermint oil for migraine pain relief:

  1. Put a small amount of peppermint oil on a cotton ball
  2. Dab the cotton ball onto your forehead, temples and the back of your jaw
  3. Massage gently in circular motions for about 5 minutes
  4. You should feel a cooling sensation while applying the oil
  5. Relax for about 15 minutes in a quiet place after using peppermint oil

If you have sensitive skin, make sure to dilute the peppermint oil in olive oil or water to avoid irritation and itching. You can also inhale peppermint oil through steam. This can help relieve migraine pain, nausea and vomiting.

4. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is an effective natural remedy for treating pain and inflammation. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a compound that helps deplete pain-causing transmitters. You’ll need cayenne pepper, honey and water. Here’s how to use it for a migraine:

  1. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper into 1 cup of warm water
  2. Add 1/2 teaspoon of honey to the mixture
  3. Stir the mixture thoroughly, so the cayenne pepper and honey are completely dissolved
  4. Drink this mixture twice within a span of 4 hours to reduce migraine pain

Sources:
Fab How
Mayo Clinic
Dr. Axe
Migraine
Migraine
Top 10 Home Remedies