Migraines

If you're seeking relief from migraine headache pain, medication isn't the only way to go. Although medications can offer effective relief from migraine pain and help to prevent migraine headache attacks, they aren't without side effects and risks. If you're concerned about long-term medication use to bring migraine pain under control, explore some of the more natural treatments for migraine pain relief that don't involve medications.

Relaxation Techniques

The first thing you should try to do when migraine pain starts pounding is to allow your body to relax. Try progressive muscle relaxation, where you lie still and quiet and consciously relax every muscle in your body, starting from your toes and ending at your head. Deep breathing, meditation, yoga and even a hot bath can help to naturally relieve migraine pain---and, the use of regular relaxation techniques can also help to prevent migraines.

Biofeedback is a type of relaxation technique that uses special equipment that allows the body to naturally respond to pain and help alleviate it. Biofeedback teaches a person how to recognize and control the body's response to pain through techniques like muscle relaxation.

Rest and Quiet

When even the softest light and noise make your head pound harder, treat yourself to some quiet time. Lie down in a dark, cool and quiet room and allow yourself some rest. Make sure you're comfortable, and ease migraine pain with an ice pack or cool cloth across your forehead or across the back of your neck. Drink some water to avoid dehydration.

Acupuncture and Massage

There are few things more relaxing than a massage, whether it's a full-body treatment or a gentle massage to the neck and temples. Massage can help your body to relax and naturally alleviate migraine pain. Acupuncture is an ancient pain-relieving technique that involves the insertion of tiny needles at specific points in the skin, and is known to alleviate migraine pain, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Herbal Remedies

Some herbal and vitamin remedies may be effective in managing migraine headache pain. Butterbur and feverfew have been shown to help ease migraine pain, as well as intravenous treatments of magnesium. Vitamin B02, oral magnesium and coenzyme Q10 have all been found to be somewhat effective in preventing migraine pain. Remember that you should never take any of these herbs or supplements without consulting first with your doctor, as they may not be safe for everyone. Butterbur and feverfew, says the Mayo Clinic, are not safe to take during pregnancy.