How to Use Aromatherapy to Treat Migraines

The sense of smell can be integral to the migraine experience. Often a smell can trigger an episode, or you may detect a "funny" smell during a migraine. It is not surprising, then, that you can use aromatherapy to successfully treat or reduce the frequency of migraines. Aromatherapy works on the brain, where migraines are caused, and can be administered through massage, hot soaks or inhalation. Read on to learn how to use aromatherapy to treat migraines.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Essential oils
• Diffuser or nebulizer
• Reference materials and recipes

Gather the Facts

1. Know which symptoms you want to treat. Learn about migraines and assess your condition so that you will know which aromatherapy remedies are appropriate. "Migraines" by Sue Dyson is a great reference point. See the Resources section below for a link.

2. Learn how aromatherapy addresses migraine symptoms. Herbal essences have specific healing qualities that you can direct at symptoms such as nausea, fatigue and pain. Read more in "Aromatherapy for Common Ailments." See the Resources section below for a link.

3. Pair aromatherapy with other relaxation techniques and bodywork treatments, including breath work, massage or acupuncture, for optimum effect.

Use Aromatherapy

4. Select the oils. These may include lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, basil or rosemary based on your symptoms at the time. The Self Growth website offers aromatherapy recipes online. See the Resources section below for a link.

5. Choose a delivery system. Diffusers come in candle, electric and nebulizing types, and are available in styles designed for the home, office or auto use. Liquid oils can be added to a carrier oil and placed in a hot bath or used as massage oil.

6. Treat yourself to a head or facial massage, or book an aromatherapy massage with a professional. Massage therapists are licensed by state, so be sure to get a reliable referral online or through a chiropractor.

Tips & Warnings

• Individuals may react differently to the same essential oils. Trial and error will tell you which scents are right for you.
• Blend essential and carrier oils with epsom salts to make bath salts that you can keep on hand for when you need them.
• Monitor any sensitivity to certain scents carefully. Don't continue to use a recommended scent if you have an adverse reaction.
• Some essential oils can be painful to skin when used full strength. Always use a carrier oil, such as olive oil, almond oil, jojoba oil or grapeseed oil.

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Resources

• Aromatherapy Recipes to Ease Migraines at Self Growth
• Healing properties in Aroma Therapy for Common Ailments
• More natural treatments in Migraines

[desertannie]

on 5/6/2009 Good to know and will try aromatherapy for migraines!5*