Herbal teas may help relieve migraine symptoms. Some examples include ginger, chamomile, and feverfew tea. Decaffeinated drinks may also be better for people with migraine.
Anecdotal evidence suggests certain tea and natural remedies may provide relief for migraine symptoms such as headache and nausea. Herbal teas may provide relaxing effects or pain relief which may be beneficial for migraine.
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The American Migraine Foundation suggests that while migraine does not have a cure, certain foods and drinks may help manage symptoms and lessen the effects of migraine.
This article examines how tea can help migraine, examples of teas and their benefits, potential risks and considerations, and some frequently asked questions.
Ginger is a perennial herb of the Zingiberaceaefamily. It has had
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However, the way ginger compares with prescribed treatments for migraine remains unknown, so people should not use ginger as a substitute. People should always consult a doctor before trying new or alternative remedies.
Chamomile is an herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Authors of a
Anecdotally, people suggest consuming chamomile tea may provide relief for migraine pain. However, as there is limited research on its use for migraine, people may use this remedy in small doses alongside their usual treatment if confirmed safe by a healthcare professional.
Turmeric is a plant that people make into spices by grinding the root. It is also available as capsules, teas, powders, and extracts. Curcumin is the active ingredient present in turmeric which has several medicinal benefits.
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- anti‑inflammatory
- antioxidative
- anti-protein aggregate
- analgesic
Since there is limited research on its use as a tea people may be able to consume this alongside their usual treatment, but should confirm this with a doctor.
Lavender is an herb. It is also grown for the production of essential oil, which comes from the flower spikes of certain species.
At present, there is limited research on its use in teas, but a person may be able to buy loose leaves or tea bags that contain it to help with their migraine symptoms, alongside their prescribed course of treatment.
Clove is the dried flower buds from clove trees.
Anecdotally, people report the following qualities of clove may be helpful for migraine pain:
- antinociceptive (blocks pain detection)
- analgesic (relieves pain)
- anti-inflammatory
However, there has not been extensive research on the use of teas or herbal remedies, so people should proceed with caution. Some
Individuals should discuss its use and possible risks with a healthcare professional.
Peppermint is an aromatic plant that may have some medicinal uses. People use it as an essential oil, or the dried or fresh leaves in tea.
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Overall, there is limited research on the use of peppermint oil or tea for migraine, but people may be able to use this remedy in small doses alongside standard migraine treatment.
Cinnamon is a spice that comes from the branches of the Cinnamomum tree family. Cinnamon is available in powder form or whole, as pieces of bark. It can also be found as an essential oil and supplement.
While there is insufficient evidence of cinnamon tea for migraine, anecdotally people claim it may have similar benefits as supplements. People should discuss whether they recommend these natural remedies to use alongside medication with a healthcare professional.
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- feverfew
- cilantro (coriander)
- Damask rose (Rosa damascena flower) that produces rose water
Overall, the evidence on the effectiveness of feverfew for migraine treatment is mixed, while a few small studies found that butterbur was helpful in reducing migraine frequency among adults. In addition, early research into citron and coriander suggests that these herbs may be helpful in preventing migraine episodes.
Anecdotally, people report that teas are well tolerated, and side effects tend to be uncommon. However, there may be some adverse effects affecting the gastrointestinal system, which may result in nausea or vomiting.
Below are the specific risks of some teas:
- Ginger may cause mild side effects, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, but this is rare.
- Chamomile may also
cause nausea, dizziness, or certain allergic reactions, but all are uncommon. - Feverfew has
no serious side effects associated with it but may cause digestive issues such as bloating.
People should speak with their doctor about whether any possible types or doses of herbs in teas may affect them. Doctors will be able to advise what to take and what to avoid depending on any risks.
Below are the answers to frequently asked questions about tea for migraine.
What is the best drink for a migraine?
Natural drinks and juices, such as those that contain turmeric and ginger, may decrease migraine symptoms. Decaffeinated coffee and tea may also be helpful for people who find caffeine triggers their headaches.
Staying hydrated with water may also be key to avoiding migraine.
What herb can cure migraine?
There is no cure for migraine, but certain herbs may help relieve migraine headaches. These
Herbal teas may provide relaxing or relieving effects for migraine headaches. Some examples include chamomile, ginger, turmeric, feverfew, and peppermint.
While there are various herbal remedies that research has shown to benefit migraine symptoms, people should not use them as a substitute for their usual line of treatment.
A person should speak with a healthcare professional to determine the best method for treating symptoms and check for any adverse effects of natural remedies.