Butterbur
The active compounds in butterbur are believed to have antispasmodic
and anti-inflammatory activity. In clinical studies for migraine prevention, participants who
took a standardized butterbur extract experienced a nearly 50% reduction in the number of
migraines after only one month of use. In a second clinical study, participants who received
150 mg of butterbur extract per day experienced a 62% reduction in the number of migraine
attacks, and when migraines did occur, they were not as painful and lasted a shorter time.
Suggested dosage: 100-150 mg per day
Feverfew
Exactly how feverfew helps prevent migraines is not completely understood.
Research suggests that parthenolide, one of the natural compounds in this herb, exerts both a
inhibiting effect on inflammation inducing substances in the brain, and anti-platelet
aggregating activity (meaning blood stays thin and flows easily through the veins without
clumping). Clinical studies in migraine sufferers have documented up to a 24% reduction in the
number of migraines experienced, as well as a reduction in migraine pain and duration. Suggested
dosage: 100 mg per day
Magnesium
Magnesium levels in migraine sufferers have been found to be low before and
during a migraine attack. Supplementing with oral magnesium daily has been shown in clinical
studies to reduce migraine frequency. Suggested dosage: 300-600 mg per day
5-HTP
Regular use of 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) may be helpful for the treatment of
migraine and other types of headaches. 5-HTP has been shown to be as effective as certain
prescription drugs in reducing migraine intensity and duration. Additionally, reported side
effects were very mild (usually stomach upset). Suggested dosage: 300-600 mg per day.
Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
When taken for at least two months, a clinical trial on
riboflavin for migraine prevention found that migraine frequency may be reduced by up to 50%
(taking 400 mg per day). Because in the body riboflavin works with other B vitamins, some
experts suggest taking it as part of a B complex supplementation. Suggested dosage: 400 mg per day |