10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Migraine

Herbal decoctions for migraine are concentrated liquid extracts made by steeping herbs in hot water, providing a natural relief from migraine symptoms.

These decoctions work by addressing the underlying causes of migraines, such as inflammation and blood vessel constriction, while also soothing the body and mind. For example, feverfew and ginger decoctions have been shown to reduce migraine frequency and severity, improving quality of life for individuals who suffer from debilitating headaches.

By incorporating these herbal remedies into their daily routine, patients can experience reduced pain and increased energy, allowing them to live more fully and without the burden of migraines.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for migraine, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Tanacetum parthenium

Feverfew decoctions helps with migraine because of its unique ability to reduce inflammation and relax muscle contractions.

The parthenolide compound found in feverfew has a natural analgesic effect, which helps alleviate headache pain and pressure. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of feverfew decoction can help constrict blood vessels, reducing dilation that often contributes to migraine attacks.

By targeting both pain and inflammation, herbal feverfew decoctions provide effective relief for individuals suffering from migraines.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tanacetum parthenium decoctions that help with migraine.

• Camphor: It helps with migraine by acting as a vasodilator, which means it widens blood vessels and improves blood flow, potentially reducing the severity of migraine symptoms.
• Thujone: It helps with migraine by exerting a sedative effect on the nervous system, which may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
• Sesquiterpene lactones: They help with migraine by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, which may contribute to the development of migraine symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of feverfew used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Leaves: The leaves of Tanacetum parthenium are commonly used due to their high concentration of feverfew's active compounds, which help in preventing migraine headaches.
• Flowers: The flowers of Tanacetum parthenium are widely used as they contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help in alleviating migraine symptoms.
• Buds: The buds of Tanacetum parthenium are also utilized in migraine decoctions as they contain a high amount of sesquiterpene lactones, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic feverfew for migraine.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of dried tanacetum parthenium flowers and leaves from a clean and dry area.
2. Combine the dried tanacetum parthenium with 1 liter of boiling water in a clean glass container.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool down and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with migraine because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory compounds, including gingerols and shogaols.

These bioactive molecules have been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are hormones that cause blood vessels to dilate and contribute to migraine pain. Ginger decoctions may also help relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation, all of which can help alleviate migraine symptoms.

Additionally, ginger has natural analgesic properties that can help ease headache pain, providing relief from debilitating migraines.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with migraine.

• Gingerols: These compounds, specifically 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with migraines.
• Shogaols: These compounds, specifically 6-shogaol and 8-shogaol, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help alleviate migraine pain and reduce inflammation in blood vessels.
• Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which are contributing factors to migraine development and severity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of active compounds such as gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Roots: Roots of Zingiber officinale are also widely used as they contain similar active compounds as rhyzomes, making them effective in reducing migraine symptoms.
• Stems: Stems are sometimes used as a substitute for rhyzomes and roots, although they may have lower concentrations of active compounds, they can still provide some relief from migraine symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for migraine.

1. Measure out 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried zingiber officinale root.
2. Combine the measured zingiber officinale root with 1 quart of boiling water in a saucepan.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl.
5. Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature for later use.

3. Salix alba

White willow decoctions helps with migraine because they contain salicin, a natural compound similar to aspirin.

Salicin is able to relieve pain by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the brain that cause inflammation and lead to throbbing headaches. The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce swelling in blood vessels, which can contribute to migraine symptoms.

By targeting the root causes of migraine pain, white willow decoctions provide a natural and effective way to alleviate discomfort and restore well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba decoctions that help with migraine.

• Salicin: Acts as a natural pain reliever due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce migraine pain and inflammation.
• Quercetin: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce migraine severity by alleviating inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• Salicortin: Has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help relax blood vessels and reduce migraine-related pain and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Barks: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Leaves: They are used due to their potential to reduce pain and inflammation associated with migraines.
• Buds: They are used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate migraine symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for migraine.

1. Harvest fresh salix alba bark or dried white willow bark in quantities of 20-50 grams per liter of water.
2. Chop the harvested bark into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped bark with 1 liter of cold water in a non-reactive pot or container.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.

4. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with migraine because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol content in peppermint relaxes the muscles, reduces tension headaches, and soothes the digestive system, which can often be a trigger for migraines. Additionally, peppermint's calming effects on the mind and body may help alleviate stress, anxiety, and emotional triggers that can exacerbate migraine symptoms.

As a result, herbal peppermint decoctions can provide natural relief from migraine pain and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with migraine.

• Linalool: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which can help alleviate migraine pain and reduce inflammation in the brain.
• Roscavin: A flavonoid component of mint, roscavin has antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with migraine.
• Menthone: A monoterpene ketone, menthone has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve migraine pain and reduce inflammation in the body.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Leaves: They are rich in menthol, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate migraine symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita contain menthol and other compounds that can help ease pain and reduce inflammation associated with migraines.
• Roots: Mentha x piperita roots contain menthone, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce migraine pain and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for migraine.

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves and stems in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Chop 20-30 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and stems into small pieces for easier infusion.
3. Combine the chopped mentha x piperita with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes then strain it using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature before consumption.

5. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop decoctions helps with migraine because its potent combination of flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins work synergistically to reduce inflammation and relieve tension in blood vessels.

The anti-inflammatory properties of maypop help to decrease the pain and discomfort associated with migraines, while its sedative effects calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. Additionally, maypop's ability to improve circulation helps to increase oxygenation of the brain, further alleviating migraine symptoms.

As a natural and non-pharmacological remedy, maypop decoctions offer a safe and effective solution for managing migraines.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata decoctions that help with migraine.

• Isophorone: Isophorone is a sesquiterpene that contributes to the anxiolytic and anti-migraine properties of Passiflora incarnata by modulating neurotransmitter activity and reducing stress-induced migraine triggers.
• Passifloric acid: Passifloric acid, a phenolic compound, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate migraine symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
• Harman and norharman: Harman and norharman, a pair of indole alkaloids, have been found to possess sedative and antispasmodic properties, which may help alleviate migraine symptoms by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Leaves: Used to make decoctions due to their high concentration of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate migraine symptoms.
• Roots: Utilized for their sedative properties, which help to reduce inflammation and ease migraine pain.
• Fruits: Employed in decoctions due to their high content of passifloric acid, a compound with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that aid in migraine relief.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for migraine.

1. Gather 4 to 8 ounces of fresh or dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves for decoction preparation.
2. Combine the gathered flowers and leaves with 1 quart of boiling water in a large pot.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes to release active compounds.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to separate solids from liquid.
5. Store the resulting decoction in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

6. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian decoctions helps with migraine because of its unique ability to relax muscles, calm the nervous system, and reduce anxiety.

The aromatic compounds in valerian root have a sedative effect on the brain, helping to ease tension headaches and alleviate migraine symptoms. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, valerian decoctions can also help regulate sleep patterns, which is often disrupted during migraines.

This natural remedy has been shown to provide relief from migraine pain, frequency, and duration, making it a valuable addition to any migraine management plan.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis decoctions that help with migraine.

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid has been shown to have a sedative effect, which can help alleviate migraine symptoms such as pain and anxiety by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
• Isovaleric acid: Isovaleric acid, a valerenic acid derivative, has been found to have a neuroprotective effect, which can help prevent migraine attacks by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
• Valeranone: Valeranone has been shown to have a sedative and anxiolytic effect, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Roots: Valerian root is the most commonly used part due to its high concentration of valerenic acids, which have a sedative effect on the nervous system and can help alleviate migraine symptoms.
• Seeds: Valerian seeds are used for their ability to stimulate the body's natural response to pain and inflammation, which can help reduce migraine severity and duration.
• Leaves: Valerian leaves are sometimes used for their antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation that may contribute to migraine development.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for migraine.

1. Harvest 5 to 10 grams of dried valeriana officinalis roots in late summer or early autumn.
2. Rinse the valeriana roots in cold water to remove any impurities and debris.
3. Combine the valeriana roots with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes allowing the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the valeriana roots.

7. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender decoctions helps with migraine because of its calming properties, which can ease tension and relaxation.

The floral fragrance of lavender has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress, two common triggers of migraines. Additionally, lavender's anti-inflammatory compounds may help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with the condition.

By drinking a warm decoction made from dried English lavender flowers, individuals can experience relief from migraine symptoms, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia decoctions that help with migraine.

• Linalool: This terpene acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with migraines.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene that has a sedative effect, which can help alleviate migraine symptoms by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that may contribute to migraine development and severity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Leaves: They are used due to their calming and analgesic properties, which help alleviate migraine pain and reduce inflammation.
• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and calming effects, which can help reduce migraine severity and promote relaxation.
• Stems: They are used due to their potential for containing calming and analgesic compounds that may help alleviate migraine pain and symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for migraine.

1. Harvest fresh or dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Measure 2 teaspoons of dried flowers or 4 teaspoons of fresh flowers and place them in a heat-resistant cup.
3. Boil 1 cup of water and pour it over the lavandula angustifolia flowers in the cup.
4. Allow the decoction to steep for 5 to 10 minutes to release the herbal compounds into the water.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean cup to remove the solids.

8. Curcuma longa

Turmeric decoctions helps with migraine because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the blood vessels and nerves that can contribute to migraine symptoms.

The decoction's curcumin content also has a natural analgesic effect, providing relief from pain and discomfort associated with migraines. Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that may exacerbate migraine triggers.

By addressing these underlying causes, herbal turmeric decoctions offer a natural and effective way to manage migraine symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with migraine.

• Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, helps with migraine by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and pain associated with migraines.
• Demethoxycurcumin: Demethoxycurcumin, another polyphenolic compound, helps with migraine by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and preventing the activation of pain-sensing neurons, thus providing relief from migraine symptoms.
• Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene, helps with migraine by acting as an anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective agent, reducing oxidative stress and preventing the activation of pain-sensing neurons, ultimately providing relief from migraine symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Rhyzomes: Rich in curcuminoids, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Roots: Contain active compounds that help in reducing inflammation and alleviating migraine symptoms.
• Barks: May contain bioactive compounds with analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects that help in managing migraine pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for migraine.

1. Harvest fresh rhizomes of curcuma longa at the right time when they are mature and dry.
2. Clean the rhizomes thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities and dirt.
3. Slice the rhizomes into small pieces of about 2 to 3 centimeters in length to increase surface area.
4. Boil the sliced rhizomes in 1 liter of water for about 30 to 40 minutes to extract active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh to obtain a clear liquid.

9. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with migraine because it is a natural diuretic that can help to reduce water retention, which is often associated with migraines.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties can also help to alleviate pain and swelling in the blood vessels of the brain. Additionally, dandelion's magnesium content can help to relax tense muscles and improve circulation, further reducing migraine symptoms.

By addressing these underlying causes, herbal dandelion decoctions may provide relief from migraines without harsh chemicals or prescription medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with migraine.

• Inulin: Inulin acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce inflammation and pain associated with migraines.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasoconstrictive properties, which can help reduce migraine severity and frequency by inhibiting pain transmission and improving blood vessel function.
• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate migraine symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Leaves: Their volatile oils and flavonoids are believed to help alleviate migraine symptoms by reducing pain and inflammation.
• Flowers: They contain flavonoids and volatile oils that contribute to their potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are thought to have a sedative effect, which may help in reducing migraine severity and frequency.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for migraine.

1. Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves for medicinal use in late spring to early summer.
2. Chop 10-30 grams of the roots and leaves into smaller pieces for increased surface area.
3. Combine the chopped roots and leaves with 500 ml of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

10. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary decoctions helps with migraine because it contains compounds that have a calming effect on the mind and body.

The herb's essential oils, such as camphor and borneol, help to reduce inflammation in the blood vessels of the brain, which can contribute to migraine pain. Additionally, rosemary's antioxidant properties may help to neutralize free radicals that can trigger migraines.

By relaxing muscle tension and reducing inflammation, rosemary decoctions can provide relief from migraine symptoms, including headache pain, sensitivity to light, and nausea.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with migraine.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps with migraine by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which are associated with migraine development.
• Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene that helps with migraine by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain and alleviating migraine symptoms.
• Α-pinene: A terpene that helps with migraine by acting as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing pain sensitivity and inflammation in the brain, and also by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters involved in pain perception.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for migraine.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly camphor and bornyl acetate, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Stems: They are utilized for their similar composition to leaves, with a high content of essential oils, which can provide relief from migraine symptoms.
• Flowers: They are used due to their calming and sedative effects, which can help alleviate migraine headaches and other symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for migraine.

1. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves for every 8 ounces of water.
2. Combine measured rosmarinus officinalis with 8 ounces of water in a saucepan.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid is hot.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
5. Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before consuming the liquid.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for migraine?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with migraine is a blend of feverfew, ginger, and passionflower.

Feverfew contains a compound called parthenolide, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce migraine frequency and severity. Ginger's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help alleviate pain and nausea, while passionflower's calming effects can help reduce anxiety and stress, common migraine triggers. This combination can be brewed as a tea or taken in supplement form to provide relief.

Consult a healthcare professional before using.

What ailments similar to migraine are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to migraine/decoctions.html">migraine/decoctions.html">migraine that are treated with herbal decoctions are tension headaches, sinusitis, and cluster headaches.

Decoctions made from herbs such as feverfew, ginger, and willow bark can help alleviate symptoms like pain, inflammation, and congestion. Additionally, herbal remedies like passionflower and valerian root may be used to treat anxiety and stress-related headache disorders.

These natural treatments offer a safer alternative to pharmaceuticals for many individuals seeking relief from recurring headaches.