Where should you press to relieve a migraine?

Acupressure and massage can be effective in relieving a migraine by stimulating certain strategic points on the body. In acupuncture, the He Gu (LI4) point, located between the thumb and index finger, is known to alleviate pain, including migraines. Applying firm pressure for a few minutes can provide relief. Another point, Taiyang , is found on the temples and can be gently massaged to ease tension. Finally, foot reflexology (foot massage) recommends massaging the areas corresponding to the head and brain on the soles of the feet, particularly around the big toe.

How can you relieve a migraine caused by a hangover?

After excessive alcohol consumption, dehydration, and inflammation of the blood vessels can trigger migraines. To ease the pain, start by drinking plenty of water to rehydrate your body. Ginger or peppermint herbal teas can help to soothe nausea and pain. Magnesium, which is often in short supply after a hangover, can also be beneficial. Finally, rest in a dark, cool place to aid recovery.

What can you do about ophthalmic migraines?

Ophthalmic migraines are often accompanied by visual disturbances such as flashing lights or bright spots. To alleviate these symptoms, retreat to a dark, quiet room, avoiding screens and bright light. Applying a cold compress to your temples can help relieve inflammation of the blood vessels. Also remember to stay well hydrated and practise deep breathing to release tension. If you suffer from frequent ophthalmic migraines, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional to identify any potential triggers (stress, diet, fatigue).

Can a shower help relieve migraines?

Yes, a shower can be a natural way to relieve a migraine, particularly thanks to the effect of temperature on blood circulation. A cool shower with cold water can help constrict dilated blood vessels and reduce pain, whilst a hot shower can relax the muscle tension that causes some migraines. Alternating between hot and cold (hydrotherapy) on the back of the neck and the forehead can also be effective. For best results, take your shower in a quiet environment, minimising bright light and noise.

10 Natural Tips to Relieve Migraines

By Camille Clément

Published on: Monday, November 06, 2023, Updated on: Friday, October 02, 2026

Are you looking for natural ways to treat your migraines? Look no further! We’re going to share 10 effective natural tips to help you say goodbye to your headaches!

Contents

Different Types of Migraines

Migraines can take various forms, with varying intensity and distinct symptoms depending on the individual. Some cause moderate pain, while others are particularly debilitating, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or hypersensitivity to light and noise. There are several types of migraine, including migraine with aura (preceded by visual or sensory disturbances), migraine without aura (the most common, with a throbbing pain often localised on one side of the head), ophthalmic migraine (mainly affecting vision), and vestibular migraine (accompanied by dizziness). The pain may be concentrated in the temples, forehead or back of the head, or may radiate towards the neck. Identifying your specific type of migraine more accurately enables you to adopt appropriate measures to provide better relief.

What Can Trigger a Migraine?

Several factors can trigger a migraine. For example:

Stress
Fatigue
Excessive alcohol consumption
Citrus fruit
Chocolate
Hormonal changes in women
Atmospheric pressure
Excessive exposure to screens or bright light
Prolonged periods of fasting, such as Ramadan, or sudden changes to diet.

All these factors can play a role in triggering a migraine. To minimise these extremely painful headaches, it is important to monitor and limit known triggers as much as possible. But there are also plenty of natural remedies to help relieve your migraines, which are outlined below.

10 Effective Natural Remedies for Migraines

Eat Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger is very effective at combating migraines. Chew a piece of ginger or drink a cup of ginger tea to relieve your migraine quickly
Practise Relaxation: Stress can be one of the triggers for your migraines. Take the time to unwind and relax using techniques such as meditation or yoga to reduce your stress levels, and thus the frequency with which you experience migraines
Apply a Cold Compress: To effectively reduce inflammation and numb the pain, don’t hesitate to apply a cold compress to your forehead or neck. This can provide instant relief from your migraine
Apply Peppermint: Known for effectively relieving migraines and nausea, peppermint essential oil will be your best ally. Apply a drop to your temples, forehead and the nape of your neck for an instant cooling effect, and to provide immediate relief from your migraine
Try Acupressure: Acupressure is a practice derived from Chinese medicine that is highly effective at relieving many ailments. In the case of migraines, certain pressure points, such as the base of the skull, the point between the thumb and forefinger, or the top of the head, should be stimulated to reduce migraine pain
Take a Break in a Dark, Quiet Environment: Quiet and dim lighting are also known to be among the best remedies for relieving a migraine. Bright lights and noise can exacerbate the pain associated with a migraine. As soon as you can, go into a dark, quiet room for a few moments to rest
Drink Plenty of Water: Dehydration can also trigger migraines. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to minimise the risk of migraines occurring
Use Lavender: Just like peppermint, lavender essential oil is very effective against migraines. Apply a drop to your temples, or inhale it for effective and immediate relief
Avoid Dietary Triggers: Certain foods can trigger migraines. Try to identify which ones affect you, and limit your intake of them to reduce the frequency of migraines
Maintain a Regular Sleep Routine: Changes in your sleep pattern can trigger migraines. Try to maintain a regular sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day

Find Out More

Want to find out more? Check out our articles on the same topic:

Which Essential oils Should You Choose to Relieve Migraines?
Using CBD for Migraines
Our Essential Oils for Winter Prevention

Spotlight on Our Writer: Camille Clément

Camille specialises in writing content on beauty, health, and natural well-being. She's passionate about these topics, and writes articles for major media outlets to help everyone take care of themselves in a natural, holistic way.

Photo by Abigail Keenan on Unsplash