If you’re someone who battles migraines, you know it’s not just a “bad headache.” It’s a full-body shutdown. For me, it’s been a journey to find what works, and I’ve finally built what I like to call my migraine toolkit—a chest of natural and practical tools that (most days) help me avoid reaching for the heavy-duty meds.
I’m not a fan of relying on medication, and while I know it has its place (and I’ll get to that), I’ve found that having a solid routine with supportive, natural remedies makes a huge difference. Here’s what I do when I feel a migraine creeping in—or when one hits like a freight train.
Step One: Support the Body Naturally
When I sense a migraine coming on, the first thing I reach for is my natural allergy support. I’ve found that a lot of my migraines are tied to inflammation or sinus pressure, so I start with:
- Beekeeper’s Naturals Nasal Spray – a must-have to clear my sinuses and reduce irritation.
- Thorne Quercetin – it’s a powerhouse anti-inflammatory and antihistamine that really helps lower my migraine frequency.
- A scoop of BodyHealth Electrolytes – hydration is key, and I swear by these for keeping my system balanced.
- And one of my secret weapons…Bulletproof Coffee. Not for the energy (although that’s a bonus), but because a small amount of caffeine can really help ease a migraine. It helps constrict blood vessels and can reduce the intensity of the pain—just don’t overdo it, or you might end up with a rebound headache. I’ve learned that one the hard way!
Step Two: Heat + Cold = Relief
This might sound strange, but trust me: the combination of an ice head wrap and a hot foot soak is pure magic.
I use my TheraIce Head Wrap—it’s cold, snug, and totally soothing—and at the same time, I put my feet in hot water. The contrast helps to constrict the blood vessels in my head while drawing circulation downward. This little trick alone can take my migraine from an 8 to a 3. Total game-changer.
Medication: The Backup Plan
Like I said earlier, I don’t love taking medication, but I’m also not against it when I really need it. I keep Ubrelvy on hand as an abortive medication, and on those brutal days where nothing else works, it’s a lifesaver. I got it through my neurologist and honestly, it’s the only thing that works for those “nothing’s touching this” migraines.
As for Botox—yep, I tried it. For years. And let me tell you… those 31 injections every three months in my face, neck, scalp, and shoulders? Not exactly a spa day. Aside from the pain, I didn’t love that my eyebrows slowly started migrating toward my hairline. Not a cute look for me. Plus, I didn’t find it all that effective in the end.
Final Thoughts
Migraines are tough, but having an arsenal of tools makes them more manageable. I feel so much more empowered now than I did even a few years ago. If you’re still trying to figure out what works for you, don’t give up. Keep experimenting, keep listening to your body, and build your own “migraine chest” of remedies.
And if you’re looking to stock your own toolkit, you can check out some of the anti-inflammatory products I swear by here. You’re not alone in this!
Here’s to fewer migraines, more good days, and finding what works for you 💛