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Peppermint, lavender, clary sage, and sweet marjoram are antispasmodics. They prevent and reduce muscular spasms and contractions caused by nervous irritability. Antispasmodics are the most useful oils for migraines.
Aromatherapy is actually better used as a preventative measure, one reason is sensitivity to odors and very often to touch as well.
I used to get migraines when I was younger and I made a cold compress with equal parts of lavender and peppermint, and placed it across the forehead and temples, it is more gentle than massaging during migraine. Change as soon as it becomes warm. According to Battaglia, gentle massage the temples with lavender if you can tolerate it.
Very often migraines are due to constricted blood supply to the brain, apply a hot or warm compress with sweet marjoram on the back of the neck.
Other oil that has historically been used is Roman Chamomile.
Pay attention to food and substances that have been known to cause migraines, such as nitrates, msg, aspirin, chocolate, and cheese. Once I changed my diet my migraines disappeared.
Before you leave:
I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.
Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
- Topical Application
- Inhaling Essential Oils
- Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
- How to Dilute Essential Oils
- Vita Flex Technique
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.
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