There are many different types of headaches. Migraine headaches typically are recurrent, pulsating in nature, and can last two to 72 hours. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound or smell. The pain is generally made worse by physical activity. Up to one-third of people can have an “aura” which is a short period of visual disturbance.
Butterbur
At least two clinical trials suggest that butterbur in the daisy family can help to decrease the duration, frequency, and intensity of constant headaches and migraines when it is taken as a preventative measure. It is the only supplement rated as “established as effective” by AAN/AHS. However, there is no evidence that it helps once a migraine has already developed.
Do keep in mind, though, butterbur contains toxic substances (pyrrolizidine alkaloids). So, the extracts used in supplements must be carefully purified to remove the toxins. The most studied butterbur supplement, Petadolex from Germany, has no detectable levels of Alkaloids. Other brands may not be safe. Also, do not use butterbur if you are pregnant, nursing or allergic to plants in the daisy family.
Magnesium:
AAN/AHS rated magnesium supplements as “probably effective” for migraine prevention. Researchers have found that people with migraines tend to have low brain magnesium levels during an attack and are more likely to have low magnesium overall. Two studies from the 1990s found that supplements helped to reduce the frequency of attacks, though another study did not. Recommended doses range from 400 to 600 milligrams a day (the adult recommended dietary allowance, or RDA, is 310 to 420 milligrams a day). People with kidney diseases should not take magnesium supplements except under medical direction.
Riboflavin:
This B vitamin has also been rated as “probably effective” by the AAN/AHS. Studies have found it effective at megadoses of 400 milligrams a day. That’s about 300 times the daily RDA.
Coenzyme Q-10 (Coq10)
A small study in neurology in 2005 found that this vitamin-like substance, at 300 milligrams a day, helped to reduce the number of days per year people suffered from migraines. But, the AAN/AHS rated it lower, as only “possibly effective”.
The Head and Neck Centers of Excellence are backed by Dr. Andrew Smith. Dr. Smith has dedicated his career to resolving head and neck pain. Finally, after years of research and perfecting his treatment, Dr. Smith developed the A.S. Remodeling Protocol® for chronic severe headache, TMJD, and neck pain sufferers.
After reading all this, are you interested in learning more about this treatment for getting rid of your constant headache for good? Then contact us now to schedule an appointment.
