Tea for Migraine Relief

When a migraine attack strikes, the search for comfort and relief is paramount. Alongside traditional medications, many people find solace in gentle, natural remedies. A warm, soothing cup of tea can be a wonderfully comforting ritual, and certain herbal teas have properties that may help to ease some of the symptoms associated with migraine. It’s a gentle act of self-care that can feel incredibly grounding when you’re in pain. This guide is here to offer a compassionate exploration of the types of tea that might be helpful, the science behind them, and how to incorporate them into your migraine toolkit safely.

How Can Tea Help with a Migraine?

While no tea is a "cure" for migraine, certain herbs have been used for centuries to treat headaches and other ailments. Their benefits may come from their ability to reduce inflammation, calm the nervous system, or ease nausea. The simple act of pausing to brew and sip a warm beverage can also be a mindful, stress-reducing ritual in itself.

Herbal Teas to Consider for Migraine

Here are some of the most commonly recommended teas for people with migraine.

1. Ginger Tea

Ginger is a true powerhouse when it comes to migraine. It is best known for its powerful anti-nausea properties, which can be a lifesaver when a migraine attack brings on a churning stomach. Some research has even suggested that ginger may help to reduce the pain of a migraine attack itself. A 2014 study found that ginger powder was comparable to the triptan medication sumatriptan in reducing migraine severity, but with fewer side effects.

How to enjoy it: You can buy pre-made ginger tea bags, or you can make your own by steeping a few slices of fresh ginger root in hot water. Adding a little honey or lemon can be a lovely touch.

2. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint has long been used as a remedy for tension headaches and stomach upset. The active ingredient, menthol, has a cooling, analgesic (pain-relieving) effect. While applying peppermint oil topically to the temples is a more direct approach for headache pain, sipping on peppermint tea can be very soothing for the nausea and general discomfort that accompany a migraine. Its refreshing aroma can also be very calming.

3. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is famous for its calming and sleep-promoting properties. Since stress and poor sleep are major migraine triggers, a cup of chamomile tea can be a wonderful way to unwind at the end of a stressful day or to prepare for a restful night's sleep. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to relax tense muscles, making it a gentle, supportive choice for your overall migraine prevention strategy.

4. Feverfew Tea

Feverfew is one of the most well-known and studied herbs for migraine prevention. It is thought to work by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the release of certain substances that can cause blood vessels to dilate. While it is more commonly taken in capsule form for a consistent dosage, feverfew tea is also available. It’s important to note that feverfew is generally considered for prevention, not for treating an attack that is already in progress. It has a slightly bitter taste, so it is often blended with other herbs like peppermint or lemongrass.

A Note on Caffeinated Teas

As we explore in our article on Caffeine and Migraine, the relationship is complex. A small amount of caffeine can sometimes help an acute migraine attack by constricting blood vessels and boosting the effectiveness of pain relievers. For this reason, a cup of black or green tea at the onset of an attack may be helpful for some people. However, regular high consumption of caffeine can lead to dependency and withdrawal headaches. If you choose to drink caffeinated tea, it’s best to do so in moderation and with consistency.

A Gentle and Safe Approach

While herbal teas are generally very safe, it’s always a good idea to be mindful.

Talk to Your Doctor: This is especially important if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications. Some herbs can interact with prescription drugs. Feverfew, for example, should be avoided by pregnant women and people taking blood-thinning medications.
Choose High-Quality Teas: Opt for reputable brands to ensure you are getting a pure product without unwanted additives.
Listen to Your Body: As with anything related to migraine, we are all different. Pay attention to how you feel after drinking a particular tea. If it seems to help, that’s wonderful. If it doesn’t, or if it seems to make things worse, then it’s not the right choice for you.

A Ritual of Self-Care

Beyond the potential physical benefits of the herbs themselves, the act of making tea can be a powerful ritual of self-care. It’s a moment to pause, to breathe, and to do something kind and gentle for your body. In the midst of the pain and chaos of a migraine attack, this simple, grounding act can be a source of profound comfort.

Trusted Resources

For more information on herbal remedies for migraine, we encourage you to explore these reliable sources: