I have suffered from migraines for years. They are painful and often debilitating. They can sometimes last for days. There was a point in my life when I would suffer from some level of headache each and every day. It was difficult to focus and live a productive life.

Through diligence and commitment, I have been able to reduce the number of headaches with which I am stricken. I was tested for allergies and it was found that I am not only allergic to our beloved family dogs, but also to dairy products and eggs.

Out of pure disgust and exhaustion from dealing with headaches for so many years, we purchased some good air purifiers which helped substantially with the dog allergies. Because of the extent of my success with the cleaner, clearer air in our home, our family dogs were cleared to stay. I don’t think my children would have forgiven me if we were forced to find new homes for our beloved family pets.

I also eliminated dairy and eggs from my life. Not only did my headaches decrease in number, they substantially decreased in intensity as well. Plus, by eliminating dairy products the nasal congestion I had suffered my entire life disappeared and I could breathe freely again!

By making these and other eliminations from my diet, it is now easy for me to pinpoint what trigger is causing a particular headache. I tend to have sensitivity to many additives and certain foods. I also suffer from menstrual migraines, which can be quite painful.

In addition to making eliminations, I discovered some effective holistic home remedies that are effective forms of alternative medicine to counteract my headaches. At times, I am forced to take prescription drugs for my headaches. But, I am determined to eliminate those from my life too.

The first thing I did to work towards eliminating the need for prescription drugs was to find a good holistic medical doctor. The search was painstaking as it seems that we are seriously lacking qualified holistic doctors who are completely in tuned with the needs of the human body.

The good news it that good holistic doctors are out there. With some careful searching, you will be able to find one. Since I began my journey, it seems like there is a bit of a shift towards alternative medicine and more qualified doctors are popping up nationwide. It was not easy to find one but through online resources (such as: www.ctds.info/holistic_doctors.html) and some legwork, I found a wonderfully intelligent, compassionate doctor.

Here are some of the holistic remedies that were recommended to me. I have found them all to be quite effective.

Feverfew
For centuries, feverfew has been used as a folk remedy for migraine. In studies done to examine the effectiveness of feverfew, it was shown to significantly decrease the frequency of migraine headaches.

Results have been mixed in various studies and not all people have had success all of the time. But, keep in mind, even with conventional medicine, not every drug works for everybody. It is a matter of trial and error. But, with conventional medicine, sometimes error can be deadly.

I have found feverfew to be effective. I take it in a supplement called MigraClear, which is a prophylaxis treatment for migraine. However, if you experience allergic reactions to chamomile, yarrow or ragweed, or if you are taking other medications, you should check with your physician prior to taking it.

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
Produced from the amino acid tryptophan (the substance in turkey that makes us sleepy) it is used by our bodies to produce the hormone melatonin and the neurotransmitter serotonin. It is derived from the seeds of the Griffonia simplicifolia (an African plant).

Research has shown that 5-HTP may reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. It affects levels of serotonin in the brain, a known method of preventing migraine headaches. It was found to reduce the duration and severity of migraines.

Magnesium
Found in leafy greens vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains, magnesium is a mineral that is required by our bodies to perform over 300 biochemical reactions.

It is needed for normal heart rhythm, immune function, blood pressure, bone health, muscle and nerve function and regulating blood sugar levels. Research has had promising results when it has been evaluated for its effectiveness against migraine headaches.

Taking magnesium may interfere with certain conventional medications. So, it is important to consult with a qualified holistic doctor prior to taking it.

Conventional prescription drugs can be harmful and have the potential to cause significant side effects. Practicing some preventative measures will offer you some relief and may eliminate your problem altogether. It took me years to even consider alternative medicine or lifestyle changes to address my headaches. Now that I have made important changes to my lifestyle and my approach, holistic home remedies are my first line of defense against any irregularity I may be experiencing.