Lavender's Impact On Migraine Relief

Overview 

Migraines, notorious for their severe aches and disabling symptoms, present a significant challenge to millions worldwide. Understanding these headaches involves recognising their various aspects, from triggers to treatment options. While conventional medications are prevalent, alternative therapies like aromatherapy, particularly with lavender, are gaining popularity. 

Lavender has recently attracted attention for its potential in relieving migraines. This article explores the scientific evidence supporting lavender’s efficacy in migraine management and practical ways of incorporate lavender into one’s wellness routine. 

Whether as an essential oil, herbal supplement, or aromatic infusion, lavender provides a natural and potentially effective option for those seeking relief from the throes of migraine pain. Read on to delve into lavender’s promising role in migraine relief.

Defining migraines

A migraine is a neurological condition characterised by frequent, intense headaches typically accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and, in some cases, visual disturbances. These headaches are often described as throbbing or pulsating and can last for hours to days, significantly impacting daily life and functioning.

Common symptoms

Migraine symptoms vary widely among individuals and even within individual episodes, differing in frequency, severity, and duration.

Common symptoms of migraines include:

Severe headache

• Very intense 
• Typically come with throbbing pains affecting one side of the head
• Can last for hours or days

Nausea and vomiting

• Nausea can accompany migraines 
• This can sometimes progress to vomiting 
• Overall discomfort tends to worsen with these symptoms 

Photophobia or sensitivity to light

• Bright light can intensify the symptoms of migraines
• Those experiencing migraines tend to prefer dark or dimly lit environments as a result

Phonophobia or sensitivity to sound

• Loud noises can be distressing for people with migraines
• People experiencing migraines tend to prefer quiet and isolated environments

Aura

Auras are reversible sensory disturbances suffered by some individuals before or during a migraine attack.

Auras can include:

• Visual changes such as flashing lights, zigzag lines, blind spots or even temporary vision loss, and
• Sensory sensations like tingling or numbness in the face or extremities

The symptoms escalate gradually and last for up to an hour.

Visual disturbances

• Migraines can cause visual disturbances without aura during the headache phase 
• They may experience blurred vision
• They may see spots or lines

Dizziness or vertigo 

• Migraine sufferers may feel dizzy or experience vertigo 
• This is felt as a spinning sensation 

Fatigue

• Migraines can be physically and mentally exhausting 
• This results in tiredness and fatigue even after the headache subsides

Difficulty concentrating

Migraines have the potential to impair cognitive function, making it challenging to focus, think clearly, or perform tasks requiring mental concentration.

• Migraines can impair brain function 
• This makes it challenging to focus, think clearly or perform tasks that require concentration 

Neck stiffness

• Stiffness or tension in the neck and shoulders
• These are common signs of a migraine in an individual

It is important to recognise that not all symptoms may manifest in every episode, and additional symptoms may be present.

Identifying common triggers

Migraines affect individuals of all ages and can be triggered by various factors. These triggers encompass a wide spectrum, including environmental stimuli and internal bodily processes. 

Common external triggers that can provoke migraines include:

• Light
• Odours
• Loud noises
• Weather changes

Internal factors that are contributors to migraine susceptibility are:

• Fatigue
• Stress
• Dietary choices
• Hormonal fluctuations (especially in women)
• Certain medications
• Caffeine consumption

The Cleveland Clinic suggests that genetics play a key role in migraine development. Inherited differences in brain structure and function may predispose some individuals to migraines. This highlights the complex interaction between genetic factors and environmental triggers in migraine onset.

Commonly used treatments

There is currently no cure for migraines. However, common medications used to prevent migraines include: 

• Beta-blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Anticonvulsants
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), and 
• Botulinum toxin type A¹ 

It is essential to note that none of these drugs are universally effective for all patients.

In addition to the medications above, supplements and medicinal herbs have also shown potential in preventing and reducing the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. The promising results of several medicinal herbs as preventative migraine treatments highlight the importance of continued investigation into natural remedies for migraine management.

Lavender for migraine management

Essential oils, derived from plants through distillation or cold pressing, contain volatile compounds with medicinal properties.

Aromatherapists believe these compounds positively impact mood, emotions, and physical health, making them valuable in holistic healing practices. Aromatherapy, a holistic healing practice, utilises essential oils to enhance overall well-being through inhalation or topical application. 

For those grappling with migraines, essential oils and aromatherapy present promising avenues for relief. Among them, lavender essential oil offers promising benefits, tapping into natural healing properties that can effectively manage symptoms.

Lavender, scientifically named Lavandula angustifolia, is prized for its calming properties and has a long history of use in addressing various ailments, including its role in addressing migraines, colds, digestion, passing gas, upset stomach, liver, gallbladder problems and loss of appetite.²

Recent years have witnessed a renewed interest in using lavender for migraine relief, supported by growing scientific evidence. Both inhalation and topical application of lavender may alleviate common migraine symptoms like pounding pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.³

With its gentle and natural properties, lavender presents a promising option for individuals seeking alternative approaches to migraine treatment.

Benefits of lavender

Lavender offers multi-faceted benefits for migraine management, including its anti-inflammatory properties, relaxation-inducing effects, and stress-reducing capabilities.

Anti-inflammatory properties

• Lavender contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties like linalool and linalyl acetate⁴
• These can reduce inflammation associated with migraines
• This can provide pain relief

Stress reduction

• Managing stress levels is crucial for migraine prevention 
• Lavender’s calming scent has been shown to have anxiolytic effects 
• This helps to reduce stress and anxiety⁵

Sedative effects

• Linalool exhibits sedative effects⁶
• This promotes relaxation and tranquillity
• This then reduces the migraine's intensity by calming the nervous system and inducing a relaxed state

Tension reduction and muscle relaxation

• Lavender’s properties can also lead to tension reduction and muscle relaxation 
• This offers relief from the common tightness felt in the neck and shoulders of migraine sufferers 

Pain relief properties

• The pain-relieving properties of lavender can alleviate migraine pains⁷
• This offers relief from the intense headaches and discomfort during migraine attacks

Ways to use lavender

Using lavender for migraine relief can be achieved through various methods, including:

Aromatherapy

• Inhaling lavender oil from a diffuser or inhaler can ease migraine symptoms
• Just add a few drops to a diffuser or inhale directly for relief
• A lavender room spray made by mixing the oil with water can create a calming atmosphere that can help reduce stress

Topical application:

• Diluting lavender essential oil with a carrier oil (coconut or almond oil) and applying to the temples, forehead or neck can provide localised pain relief
• Gently massage the oil into the skin for best results 

Lavender oil-infused compress to the forehead/neck can also cause relief and ease tension. To make this: 

• Add a few drops of lavender to warm water
• Soak a clean cloth in the water 
• Apply cloth to forehead/neck

Lavender pillow

• Place a sachet of dried lavender/a few drops of lavender oil on your pillow
• This can improve sleep quality and help prevent migraines/reduce their severity

Lavender tea

• This can have calming effects 
• This may help alleviate migraine symptoms 
• Simply steep dried lavender flowers/lavender tea in hot water for a few minutes, strain, and enjoy

Lavender bath

• Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to a warm bath 
• Soaking in this bath can help ease tension, provide relaxation and relieve stress

Experiment with these methods to find the one that works best for you in managing migraine symptoms effectively. 

Safety and risks

When considering lavender oil for migraine relief, it is crucial to weigh its potential benefits against its risks. Opt for reputable brands that transparently disclose the manufacturing processes and ingredients without making health claims.

While generally safe, always conduct a patch test before widespread use to check for potential allergic reactions. Improper application can cause skin irritation or burns, particularly when exposed to sunlight. Some individuals may experience rare hormonal effects, such as gynecomastia in young boys, or allergic reactions to oral lavender.

Pregnant individuals should avoid ingesting lavender due to its potential to stimulate menstruation. While inhaled lavender oil may offer relief during migraine attacks, more research is needed to confirm its medicinal benefits. 

It’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially during pregnancy or with existing health conditions.

Summary

• Migraines pose a significant challenge globally due to their severe headaches and debilitating symptoms 
• Alternative therapies live lavender aromatherapy are emerging as a natural remedy for migraine relief 
• Lavender possesses versatile properties that can help relieve migraine symptoms including pain relief and stress-reducing properties
• Linalool and linalyl acetate in lavender provide anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve pain caused by inflammation during migraines 
• Lavender's calming scent has anxiolytic effects, reducing common triggers for migraines such as stress and anxiety
• Caution is required, however, due to potential risks of allergic reactions or hormonal effects 
• Pregnant individuals must be especially cautious 
• Consulting healthcare professionals before usage is advisable for safe and effective usage
• Lavender emerges as a hopeful natural remedy for those seeking to manage their painful migraines
• More research is still required to fully understand lavender’s theraputic benefits