General

Migraine — general

Migraine is a neurological disease, not just a headache. Prevention is usually more effective than abortive treatment. Several herbs have legitimate preventive evidence; CGRP inhibitors and other modern medical treatments have been game-changers for many.

Key points

✓Feverfew 125 mg daily: AHS guideline-supported for prevention
✓Butterbur (Petadolex, PA-free): strong preventive evidence but hepatotoxicity risk with PA forms
✓Magnesium glycinate 400-600 mg daily: AHS-recommended
✓Riboflavin 400 mg daily: also AHS-recommended preventive
✓Topical peppermint oil on temples may abort early migraine

Supportive herbs

Lifestyle & diet

Consistent sleep schedule, regular meals, hydration, identifying and avoiding personal triggers (common: red wine, aged cheese, MSG, sleep deprivation, hormonal timing, weather changes), stress management, caffeine consistency.

When to see a clinician

New-onset severe headache, "worst headache of life," headache with fever/stiff neck, neurological deficit, progressive daily headache, headache after head injury — these are red flags warranting imaging.