Migraine Relief: My Chronic Migraine Journey and Natural Solutions

My Journey with Chronic Migraines: Relief Through Essential Oils

Migraines are a debilitating condition, and unfortunately, they run in my family. Over the years, I have experienced the extreme pain and frustration of chronic migraines. For some time, I was even misdiagnosed with hemiplegic migraines, which caused significant confusion, especially when paralysis-like symptoms were triggered by overmedication. I feel for anyone suffering from these migraines, and I want to share my story with you in the hope that it provides insight and support for your own journey.

The Migraine Aura: An Out-of-Body Experience

One of the hardest parts of my migraines is the sensory aura, where I experience symptoms such as paralysis and weakness on the right side of my body. These auras are incredibly scary and can last anywhere from 3 to 4 hours, with the worst ones lasting up to 24 hours. Even after the aura subsides, I often deal with post-migraine symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and exhaustion, which can last for days.

Did you know? Chronic migraines involve daily symptoms, which can include sinus throbbing, vertigo, neck stiffness, and shoulder blade tingling. For me, these symptoms are usually localised on the right side of my body, including a sensation of coldness under my right eye and ear, as if I am underwater. On a good day, these symptoms typically begin in the afternoon. I’ve even started rating the severity of my pain on a scale of 1-5 to help my family understand how I’m feeling, with 1 being bedridden.

Migraine Triggers: A Constant Puzzle

Migraine triggers can be difficult to pinpoint. For me, they range from physical exertion and stress to environmental factors like bright lights or overheating. But I believe mine were predominantly triggered by the stress and exhaustion from the third lockdown in 2021. I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my family, who have helped me through this time. Through trial and error, we’ve figured out a routine that helps prevent migraines from escalating.

Natural Management Tools: Supporting My Migraine Journey

In addition to essential oils and holistic practices, I’ve discovered a range of natural migraine management tools that have been incredibly helpful in my daily life. These tools, which I’ve shared on my Instagram page, have been instrumental in supporting my migraine recovery and prevention:

Ice Compression Hat

One of the most effective tools I’ve found is the Icekap Ice Compression Hat. This simple yet powerful tool has brought immense relief, especially during acute migraine episodes. The cooling effect combined with gentle compression helps reduce the intensity of the headache and aids recovery post-migraine. I recommend it to anyone who suffers from migraines, as it provides comfort during and after an attack. You can find it on my Instagram here.

Diffuser Timer & Essential Oils

Another key tool in my migraine management is the diffuser timer. I use this to set specific time limits for running my diffuser, especially when using blends designed for migraine relief. It ensures I get the maximum benefit from my essential oils without over-exerting myself. Using this timer has been particularly beneficial when I combine it with my migraine diffuser blend, as it helps maintain a calm environment without the need for constant attention.

Additionally, I use essential oils like Lavender, Peppermint, and Lemon to create a calming and healing atmosphere. These oils are perfect for soothing migraines and promoting relaxation. You can find the Aroma Diffuser with Anxiety and Migraine Support Organic Pure Essential Oil Set on our website, a great addition to any home to support natural migraine relief.

Magnesium Citrate & B2 Supplements

Incorporating supplements like Magnesium Citrate and Vitamin B2 (400mg daily) into my routine has been a game-changer. Magnesium helps relax muscles and ease tension, while B2 has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. I’ve found that taking these supplements regularly has provided me with long-term relief from migraine attacks, helping me break free from the cycle of constant pain.

Acupuncture and Reflexology

Holistic treatments such as acupuncture and reflexology have been immensely helpful in managing both the physical and emotional aspects of my migraines. These therapies work by stimulating specific pressure points that support the body’s natural healing process and promote relaxation. I’ve seen firsthand how these practices can alleviate tension in my neck and shoulders, two areas that tend to exacerbate migraine pain.

Migraine Relief with Essential Oils

During a migraine, being in a calm, dark room with ice compression and my diffuser has been incredibly beneficial. One of my go-to products for migraine relief is the Icekap, which provides soothing ice compression during the recovery process. I pair this with my diffuser timer, which helps keep the compression hat on for the full 30 minutes recommended for maximum comfort.

While there’s no magic cure for migraines, I’ve found that certain essential oils offer relief when used in a diffuser. Here’s the Aroma Diffuser Blend I recommend for migraine support:

Migraine Diffuser Blend Directions:

Add to 100ml of cool water in your diffuser:

• 3 Drops of Lavender Essential Oil: Lavender has calming properties that help relieve pain and ease tension.
• 2 Drops of Peppermint Essential Oil: Peppermint helps to improve circulation, relax muscles, and soothe the gut, all of which are helpful during a migraine.
• 2 Drops of Lemon Essential Oil: The uplifting, cleansing aroma of lemon calms and soothes, reducing the discomfort of a migraine.

This blend isn’t a cure, but it’s a great way to support your body during a migraine. I also recommend creating a rollerball version of this blend to carry with you, so you can apply it to your temples and wrists during or after an attack. You can purchase the Glass Roller Ball Carrier Oil and Migraine & Anxiety Support Oil Set on our website, which is perfect for on-the-go relief.

Migraine Support and Resources

I’m still on my journey to fully understanding my chronic migraines and how to manage them, but I know the great news is that it is reversible. With environmental adjustments and mindful practices, I hope to return to a more episodic pattern.

If you're on your own migraine journey, I highly recommend checking out the Heads Up Podcast from The National Migraine Centre. It offers valuable insights and support for those suffering from migraines. You can listen to it here.

And, if you feel moved to, you can donate to the podcast’s cause to keep the conversation going and raise awareness: Donate to Heads Up Podcast.

Join Me on the Journey to Wellness

I’d love to hear from you if this migraine diffuser blend has helped you or if you have your own tips and tricks for managing migraines naturally. Please reach out on Instagram, and follow for more support and updates on my wellness journey!