It’s often difficult for those who suffer from migraines to make others realize that it’s far more than just a headache. I’ve had both and sadly the treatments aren’t the same.
Simple over-the-counter aspirin or pain reliever does not touch a migraine and a prescribed medication does not always relieve it either. Some people are looking for a different approach, like a herbal remedy for example.
The reasons vary from having to go all natural to the preppers that want to have something on hand right when the first sign of a migraine appears. Whatever your reason, the following information is a great alternative solution to an old problem.
Let’s look at an easy and effective migraine tincture, as well as other ailments which will be discussed later in the article.
What Is a Tincture?
A tincture is a herbal remedy that is produced by soaking selected herbs in alcohol, which often takes weeks to use. The alcohol is an ideal herbal solvent, since digestion is healthy and works much better than other methods to extract the true benefits from the herbs.
When the herbs have soaked for a couple of weeks, the mixture is then strained to remove the soaking herbs or plants, leaving the concentrated liquid as a remedy for use.
Some tinctures use multiple herbs, whereas others may use only one. You can either use fresh herbs or dried herbs right out of the garden. Back then, fresh herbs were not readily available.If you prefer to be fresh and live in a cooler climate as well, you can grow your own herbs or wait until spring to make the tincture.
Herbs Used
This migraine tincture only calls for two herbs, so it’s a very easy one to make. But, first, what about these herbs makes them unique to this type of tincture?
Lemon Balm
Not only does it have an extremely fresh fragrance but lemon balm is an easy-to-grow herb with amazing healing characteristics, not just for migraines. If you are considering growing yourself some soothing herbs, make sure to add lemon balm to the list.
Lemon balm has been associated with the management of the nervous system and with the potential to do the following:
- Protect and heal skin and wounds
- Relieve irritability in children
- Diminish symptoms and outbreaks of cold sores
- Calm symptoms of the common cold
- Reduce anxiety and insomnia and help depression
And of course, it’s been helpful in reducing the severity and longevity of migraines.
Related: 16 Remedies for Radiation Exposure
Feverfew
Like lemon balm, feverfew is also a perfect option to help combat headaches caused by all sorts of illnesses and serious migraines. And as like the lemon balm, it’s easy to grow this in a home garden.
An Easy Recipe for a Migraine Tincture
Although it will take weeks before it’s ready to use, this migraine tincture is very easy to make, as well as easy to use. First, let’s take a look at the supplies you need:
- A solvent, such as 100 proof alcohol (I used 100 proof vodka)
- 2 parts lemon balm
- 1 part feverfew
- Mason jar
Note: If using dried herbs, you will need about half the amount as freshly chopped herbs.
If using fresh herbs, make sure to chop them finely, then follow these simple directions:
1. Measure out the herbs (two parts to one part) so you have enough to fill the Mason jar and can leave two inches of space at the top.
2. Add the herbs to the Mason jar. (If using dried herbs, you can make a paper funnel to prevent spilling.)
3. Pour the vodka over the herbs until the jar is nearly full, but leave enough space that you can shake the mixture. Place the lid on the jar then shake the mixture until it is well mixed.
4. Set the jar in a sunny spot, such as a window sill, where it can steep for two to six weeks.
5. Shake the jar daily.
6. After it has steeped, strain the mixture with a cheesecloth or paper towel, keeping the liquid and discarding the herbs.
The photo from the right is the finished product, after steeping for two weeks. I did not place it in a dark bottle or place for the sole purpose of the photo, so you can see the color of the finished tincture.
You can compost the discarded herbs or toss them out. Store the tincture in dark-colored bottles or in a cool and dark place. The shelf life for this particular tincture is up to five years.
Recommended Dosage for Adults
When you feel the onset of a migraine, begin by taking up to a half teaspoon tincture of the lemon balm. Repeat this dose every 30 to 60 minutes until you know the symptoms are all gone.
Because of the alcohol use, please seek your child’s doctor’s advice before administering the tincture to a minor child.
