Migraine Check

Read on for a herb that studies show may help to bring relief …

This year, Migraine Awareness week is September 4-9th. And if you are a sufferer you will know only too well how migraines can put a damper on the best of days, so here’s a herb that we hope will help to soften the pain.

FEVERFEW

Fever few (Tanacetum pantheism) is a perennial plant belonging to the daisy family.  It has been used for centuries in herbal medicine and over the years has become a popular treatment for migraine. Some people report that after taking it their migraines have become less frequent and in some cases stopped altogether.

No one knows for sure what triggers a migraine, but according to some experts these headaches occur when blood vessels in the head constrict and then rapidly dilate. Such a dramatic change is thought to release certain chemicals that cause the pain and inflammation associated with migraine. It is thought that a plant chemical partenolide found in feverfew may inhibit the pathways that lead to the blood vessel contraction responsible for migraine, although this is now under debate.

Feverfew is not an instant fix for migraines, however, and needs to be taken for several weeks before you can expect to see a marked improvement - maximum benefit is often achieved only after several months. It should be seen as a long-term preventative measure rather than a quick cure.
Although you can grow your own feverfew plants most people prefer to take it in capsule form as the leaves or teas are on the bitter side and may irritate the inside of your mouth. 

Watch point

Feverfew should not be taken if you are pregnant as it can cause contractions.  Also, it is similar to aspirin and other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, so avoid taking both at the same time.

HELP YOURSELF

• Aim to drink at least two litres of water a day
• Cut back on alcohol and reduce intake of caffeine and soft drinks containing artificial sweeteners
• Eat regularly and avoid sugary snacks to keep blood sugar stable
• Maintain regular sleep patterns – too much or too little sleep can trigger an attack
• Take regular breaks at work, especially if you use a computer
• Make time to relax and avoid stress
• Try to exercise and spend time outdoors every day.

Feverfew is found in MigraHerb, a traditional herbal medicinal product used for the prevention of migraine headaches exclusively based upon long-standing use as a traditional remedy.