10 best herbal essential oils for migraine

Herbal essential oils for migraine are a natural remedy used to alleviate symptoms of migraines, which affect millions worldwide.

These potent oils are extracted from herbs and plants known for their therapeutic properties, such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus. When inhaled or applied topically, they help ease tension, reduce pain, and calm the mind. For example, lavender oil's calming effects can soothe a stressful environment, while peppermint oil's cooling sensation can relieve headache pressure.

By incorporating herbal essential oils into their daily routine, individuals can experience fewer migraine episodes, improved mood, and enhanced overall well-being.

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

1. Bacopa monnieri

Brahmi essential oils helps with migraine because of its potent anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

The oil's active compounds, such as saponins and flavonoids, work to reduce inflammation in the brain, which is a common trigger for migraines. Additionally, Brahmi's adaptogenic properties help to balance the body's energy and calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that can contribute to migraine episodes.

As a result, using Brahmi essential oil topically or inhaling its aroma may provide relief from migraine symptoms by addressing these underlying triggers.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in brahmi essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Brahmi essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and pain associated with migraine attacks, providing relief from discomfort and tension.
• Antioxidant properties: Brahmi essential oil's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that can contribute to oxidative stress, which is often a underlying factor in migraines, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of episodes.
• Anxiolytic and stress-reducing properties: Brahmi essential oil's anxiolytic (anxiety-relieving) and adaptogenic properties help reduce mental tension, anxiety, and stress, all common migraine triggers, promoting relaxation and calmness.

The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make essential oils for migraine.

• Roots: Rich in saponins and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate migraine symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation.
• Rhizomes: Contain a high concentration of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them effective in soothing migraine pain and discomfort.

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

1. Harvest fresh bacopa monnieri leaves and flowers from a healthy plant for use.
2. Steam distill the harvested material at 100-120°c for 4-6 hours to extract oil.
3. Collect the extracted oil in a clean glass container and filter it through cheesecloth.
4. Add 10% of sweet almond oil as carrier oil and gently blend well to mix thoroughly.
5. Store the bacopa monnieri essential oil in a dark glass bottle at room temperature.

2. Tanacetum parthenium

Feverfew essential oils helps with migraine because it contains parthenolide, a natural compound that reduces inflammation and constriction of blood vessels in the brain.

This can help to alleviate migraine symptoms such as pain, sensitivity to light, and nausea. The anti-inflammatory properties of feverfew oil also help to relax tense muscles and reduce pain transmission to the brain, providing relief from throbbing headaches.

By incorporating feverfew essential oils into a massage or inhalation therapy, individuals may experience reduced frequency and severity of migraines.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in feverfew essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Anti-inflammatory: Feverfew essential oil reduces inflammation, which is a common underlying factor in migraines, by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals and reducing swelling in blood vessels.
• Antispasmodic: Feverfew essential oil helps to relax muscles and reduce spasms, which can contribute to migraine pain and tension headaches.
• Antioxidant: Feverfew essential oil contains antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, both of which have been linked to the development of migraines.

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

• Flowers: The flowers are rich in parthenolide, a key compound responsible for feverfew's anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Leaves: Feverfew leaves contain a high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate migraine symptoms.

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

1. Harvest tanacetum parthenium leaves at dawn and dry them in a warm, dry place for 2-3 days.
2. Crush dried leaves into small pieces using mortar and pestle then mix with carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil.
3. Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar at room temperature for 21 days allowing it to infuse slowly.
4. Filter the infused mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a new glass container discarding solids and separating oils.
5. Store the resulting essential oil in a dark glass bottle with tight-fitting lid at cool room temperature for up to 6 months.

3. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with migraine because it has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can effectively alleviate pain and tension in the head and neck.

When applied topically, peppermint oil's cooling sensation can help to relax tense muscles and improve blood flow, reducing inflammation and pressure that may trigger migraines.

Additionally, its calming aroma can also soothe the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels, a common migraine trigger.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Cooing and relaxation: Peppermint's menthol content helps to cool and relax the mind and body, reducing tension and stress that can trigger migraines.
• Pain relief: The analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint essential oil can help to alleviate pain associated with migraines, including headaches, neck and facial pain.
• Digestive soothing: Peppermint's calming effects on the digestive system can help to ease tension and cramping in the neck and head, common symptoms of migraines.

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

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, the roots of peppermint help to relax muscles and reduce inflammation, making them a great choice for migraine relief.
• Buds: The buds of peppermint contain high levels of menthol, which helps to ease tension headaches and reduce pain associated with migraines.

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

1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves from a mature plant and rinse them gently under running water.
2. Steam distill the peppermint leaves in a laboratory setting using a steam distillation apparatus for 3 hours.
3. Collect the distilled essential oil and separate it from any impurities or contaminants immediately.
4. Filter the essential oil through a glass wool filter paper to remove any remaining particles or sediment for 30 minutes.
5. Store the mentha x piperita essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature for up to one year.

4. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with migraine because it has a calming effect on the body, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

The scent of lavender has been shown to promote relaxation and ease tension in the muscles and scalp, which are common triggers for migraines.

Additionally, lavender's natural anti-inflammatory properties may also help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with migraines, providing relief from symptoms such as throbbing headaches and sensitivity to light and sound.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Antispasmodic properties: English Lavender essential oil's antispasmodic properties can help to relieve migraine pain by reducing muscle contractions and spasms, which are often a contributing factor to migraine episodes.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: English Lavender essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce inflammation in the blood vessels and brain, which is a common underlying cause of migraines.
• Anxiolytic properties: English Lavender essential oil's anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties can help to calm stress and anxiety, which are common migraine triggers, reducing the frequency and severity of migraine episodes.

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

• Roots: The roots are good for making medicinal essential oils for migraine because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help relieve migraine pain.
• Flowers: Lavender flowers are a popular choice for making essential oils due to their calming effects, which can help reduce stress and anxiety that often trigger migraines.

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh lavender flowers from a sunny spot at dawn or late afternoon.
2. Dry the harvested lavender flowers in a single layer on paper towels for 10-14 days.
3. Combine 50g of dried lavender flowers with 500ml of carrier oil and heat mixture in a double boiler for 4 hours.
4. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean glass container, discarding solids after 30 minutes.
5. Allow the infused oil to mature at room temperature for 21 days before decanting into dark glass bottles.

5. Pelargonium graveolens

Geranium essential oils helps with migraine because of its natural ability to reduce inflammation and ease tension in the body.

The oil's fragrance has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate stress and anxiety triggers that often contribute to migraines. Additionally, geranium oil has been shown to improve circulation, which may help reduce blood vessel spasms and constrictions that are common migraine symptoms.

As a result, using geranium essential oils may provide relief from migraine pain and discomfort.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in geranium essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Antispasmodic property: Helps to relax muscle spasms and reduce tension, which is a common trigger for migraines.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Reduces inflammation in the body, which has been linked to migraine headaches, and helps alleviate pain and swelling associated with the condition.
• Calming and balancing property: Has a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to calm stress and anxiety that can contribute to migraine triggers and frequency.

The list below shows the primary parts of geranium used to make essential oils for migraine.

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help alleviate migraine pain.
• Flowers: Contain citral, a natural vasodilator that can help relax blood vessels and reduce migraine symptoms.

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

1. Harvest fresh leaves of pelargonium graveolens at dawn on a sunny day, ensuring minimal bruising or damage.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a well-ventilated area for 7-10 days, or until they reach a brittle consistency.
3. Steam distill the dried pelargonium graveolens leaves with water at a ratio of 1:4 using a clevenger apparatus, processing for 2 hours.
4. Collect and filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter paper, discarding any impurities or sediment, yielding approximately 0.5% oil content.
5. Transfer the filtered essential oil to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids, storing in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year while keeping it away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

6. Salvia sclarea

Sage essential oils helps with migraine because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

When inhaled or applied topically, sage oil can help to relax tense muscles and reduce inflammation in the brain, which are common triggers for migraines. Additionally, sage's calming effects on the nervous system can help to ease stress and anxiety, two common migraine precursors.

By reducing pain, inflammation, and stress, sage essential oils can provide natural relief from migraine symptoms, helping to alleviate discomfort and promote a sense of well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Anti-inflammatory: Sage oil's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce swelling and irritation in blood vessels, which can contribute to migraine pain.
• Antioxidant: Sage oil's antioxidant properties can help neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate oxidative stress, a known trigger of migraines.
• Analgesic and sedative: Sage oil's analgesic (pain-relieving) and sedative properties may help alleviate migraine-related pain and discomfort by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make essential oils for migraine.

• Roots: Sage roots have been traditionally used to relieve migraines and other headaches due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzome, which is a type of underground stem, contains bioactive compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with migraines.
• Barks: Sage barks have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat various ailments, including headaches and migraines, due to their antispasmodic properties.

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

1. Harvest fresh sclarea sclarea leaves and flowers at dawn on a sunny day when dew is still present.
2. Steam-distill the harvested plant material using a still or a distillation apparatus with water at a ratio of 1:5.
3. Collect the resulting essential oil in a glass container and filter it through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove impurities.
4. Store the salvia sclarea essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature for up to one year.
5. Use the essential oil in aromatherapy by adding 5-7 drops to a diffuser or inhaling directly from the bottle for 3-5 minutes.

7. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme essential oils helps with migraine because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The oil's active compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain, which is a common trigger for migraines. Additionally, thyme essential oil has been found to relax tense muscles and improve blood flow, helping to alleviate symptoms of tension and stress that often accompany migraines.

By using thyme essential oil in aromatherapy or topically, individuals can experience natural relief from migraine discomfort.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Anticonvulsant: Thyme essential oil has been shown to have anticonvulsant properties, which can help prevent and reduce migraine frequency by reducing muscle spasms and nerve irritation.
• Anti-inflammatory: Thyme essential oil contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol that have potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and swelling associated with migraines.
• Cephalic analgesic: Thyme essential oil has been traditionally used to relieve headaches and migraines due to its ability to stimulate blood flow to the head and scalp, reducing pain and discomfort.

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make essential oils for migraine.

• Roots: Thyme roots contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which are known to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in relieving migraine pain.
• Flowers: The flowers of the thyme plant are rich in flavonoids and volatile oils, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate migraine symptoms such as headache and nausea.

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

1. Harvest fresh thyme leaves and stems, washing them thoroughly with distilled water to remove impurities.
2. Steam distill the thyme mixture using 20g of plant material per 100ml of distilled water for 4 hours.
3. Collect and filter the resulting essential oil, separating it from the aqueous phase within 30 minutes.
4. Transfer the extracted essential oil to dark glass bottles filled with carrier oil at a ratio of 5% thymus vulgaris essential oil to 95% carrier oil.
5. Store the herbal blend in a cool, dry place for a minimum of 2 weeks before use to allow flavors and properties to mature.

8. Zingiber officinale

Ginger essential oils helps with migraine because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling in blood vessels and ease muscle tension.

The oil's analgesic and sedative properties also work together to relieve pain and promote relaxation, helping to calm the body and mind.

Additionally, ginger has natural pain-relieving compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which can help to block the production of pain-causing neurotransmitters in the brain.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Pain relief: Ginger essential oil's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate migraines by reducing pain and inflammation in the body, providing temporary relief from throbbing headaches.
• Digestive aid: Ginger essential oil's carminative and antispasmodic properties can help soothe digestive issues that may contribute to migraine triggers, such as nausea and stomach discomfort, by reducing spasms and gas buildup in the digestive tract.
• Anti-inflammatory: Ginger essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the blood vessels of the brain, which is a common underlying cause of migraines, thereby helping to prevent and alleviate symptoms.

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

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, which help to relax muscles and reduce inflammation associated with migraines.
• Rhyzomes: High in volatile compounds that have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making them effective against migraine symptoms.

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

1. Harvest fresh ginger roots with their skin intact, cutting them into small pieces.
2. Steam distill the ginger pieces for 4 hours or until the oil yield reaches 20%.
3. Collect the distilled essential oil and filter it using a coffee filter paper.
4. Mix the filtered essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil at a ratio of 1:10.
5. Store the prepared herbal zingiber officinale essential oil in a dark glass bottle for future use.

9. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian essential oils helps with migraine because of its calming and sedative properties.

The oil's ability to reduce anxiety, stress, and tension headaches makes it a popular natural remedy for migraines. When inhaled or applied topically, valerian essential oil can help relax the mind and body, reducing the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may also help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with migraines.

As a result, incorporating valerian essential oils into your self-care routine may provide relief from these debilitating headaches.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Sedative and calming effects: Valerian essential oil has a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help to calm and relax the mind and body, reducing the frequency and severity of migraines caused by stress and anxiety.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Valerian essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce swelling and pain in the brain and scalp, which are common symptoms of migraine headaches.
• Muscle relaxation and analgesic effects: Valerian essential oil's ability to relax muscles and relieve pain can help to alleviate migraine-related tension headaches and reduce the intensity of migraines caused by muscle contractions.

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

• Roots: Valerian roots are rich in sesquiterpenes and other bioactive compounds that have been traditionally used to alleviate migraine symptoms.
• Flowers: The fragrant flowers of valerian contain a high concentration of essential oil, which has anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties that may help relieve migraine pain.

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

1. Harvest 50g of fresh valeriana officinalis roots and stems on a sunny day.
2. Dry the harvested material in a warm, dark place for 7-10 days or until crumbly.
3. Place 30g of dried valeriana officinalis into a clean glass jar and cover with 200ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
4. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool, dark place for 14-21 days, shaking occasionally.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard solids, transferring the infused oil to a dark glass bottle.

10. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with migraine because it contains a unique combination of compounds that work synergistically to reduce pain and inflammation.

The oil's terpenes, such as caryophyllene and alpha-pinene, have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate headache pain and discomfort. Additionally, the oil's analgesic and sedative properties can help to calm the mind and body, providing relief from the intense sensory disturbances associated with migraines.

This natural remedy has been shown to provide fast and effective relief for those suffering from this debilitating condition.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tasmanian blue gum essential oils that aid with migraine.

• Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties: Eucalyptus globulus contains eucalyptol, which has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation, providing relief from migraine symptoms.
• Antispasmodic properties: The oil's ability to relax muscle spasms can help alleviate tension headaches that often accompany migraines, reducing the frequency and severity of episodes.
• Cooling and decongestant properties: Eucalyptus globulus essential oil has a refreshing and cooling effect on the body, which can help to reduce sinus pressure and congestion that may exacerbate migraine symptoms.

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make essential oils for migraine.

• Roots: The roots contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have been shown to help alleviate migraine symptoms by reducing inflammation and relaxing blood vessels.
• Barks: The barks of the Tasmanian Blue Gum plant contain flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help relieve migraine pain and reduce inflammation in the brain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for migraine.

1. Harvest 20 fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves and wash them gently with distilled water.
2. Dry the leaves in a warm oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 4 hours.
3. Steam distill 10 grams of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves in 100 milliliters of distilled water for 2 hours.
4. Filter the resulting essential oil using cheesecloth and store it in dark glass bottles at room temperature.
5. Dilute the essential oil with carrier oils such as coconut or olive oil at a ratio of 10 percent essential oil to 90 percent carrier oil.

How to best treat migraine with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat migraine with herbal essential oils is to blend Lavender, Peppermint, and Eucalyptus oils in a carrier oil like coconut or sweet almond oil.

Apply the mixture to the temples, forehead, and neck to ease pain and tension. Additionally, inhale the vapors by adding a few drops of the blend to a diffuser or inhaling directly from a cloth or handkerchief.

This holistic approach can provide fast and effective relief from migraine symptoms.

What ailments similar to migraine are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to migraine that are treated with herbal essential oils are tension headaches, facial pain, and sinusitis.

Lavender oil is often used to ease stress and promote relaxation, while peppermint oil helps to cool and soothe the skin. Eucalyptus oil is commonly used to relieve sinus pressure and congestion, while geranium oil helps to balance hormones and reduce menstrual cramps.

These herbal essential oils can be inhaled, applied topically, or added to bath water for relief from these ailments.