Jenn, I have a book of Alternative Home Remedies. Here are a few things listed:
1) Ice - "The majority of patients will find that during acute episodes, ice is their best friend."
2) Acupressure - "Pressing the acupressure point (called L14) in the thick, meaty part of the web between your thumb and forefinger can help relieve headache pain." "Apply pressure with a rhythmic, pumping action." "The right amount of pressure, says Dr. Mauskop, will produce a twinge that isn't painful but isn't soothing, etiher. You can apply pressure for as long as necessary to reduce or eliminate your headache, working each hand for about a minute at a time."
3) Aromatheropy: As effective as ibuprofen - "Rubbing peppermint oil on your temple at the start of a tension headache can relieve pain just as effectively as taking ibuprofen..." "Dilute one drop of peppermint essential oil in one or two drops of almond oil or other carrier oil to apply to your head or add three drops to a warm bath." "Other essential oils, such as lavender or Roman chamomile, can also help relieve a tension headache...." "Sprinkle one drop of the oil of your choice on a tissue and inhale deeply. Or take a bath in warm water to which you have added five or six drops of oil."
4) Vitamin B6 - 50 milligrams a day. Helps to stabilize serotonin levels.
5) As others have mentioned, drink water. Fiber and water are both excellent ways to combat headaches.
Book also lists Meditation, Visualization and Energy Healing.
There is a big article about MSG and migraines. I stay away from products with MSG, but I didn't know that MSG can be an ingredient in a food but not be listed as MSG on the label!
Also, according to this book, Aspartame (aspartic acid), think NutraSweet and Equal, has the same effect as MSG.
The book lists these ingredients as always containing MSG:
Monosodium glutamate
Hydrolyzed protein
Sodium caseinate
yeast extract
Yeast nutrient
Maltodextrins
Autolyzed yeast
Textured protein
Calcium caseinate
Yeast food
Hydrolyzed oat flour
The following OFTEN contain MSG:
Malt extract
Malt flavoring
Bouillon
Barley malt
Broth
Stock
Flavoring(s)
Natural flavoring(s)
Natural beef flavoring
Natural chicken flavoring
Natural pork flavoring
Food seasonings
Mine, however, are emitting some horrible farts this morning. I think they may be gassing me to death!
