How to Treat Migraines with an Herbal Tincture

By KJ Barber
October 19, 2018 06:57

For those who suffer from migraines, it’s often difficult to make others understand that it’s far more than just a headache. I’ve had both, and the treatments are unfortunately not the same.
A migraine isn’t touched by simple over-the-counter aspirin or pain reliever, and it isn’t always relieved by a prescribed medication either. Some people are looking for a different approach, such as a herbal remedy.
The reasons vary, from wanting to go all natural to the preppers that want to have something on hand right when the first sign of a migraine appears. Regardless of your reason, the following information is a great alternative solution for an ancient problem.
Let’s take a look at an easy and effective tincture for migraines, as well as other ailments that will be discussed later in the article.
What Is a Tincture?
A tincture is a herbal remedy made by soaking selected herbs in alcohol, which often takes weeks before it can be used. The alcohol is an excellent solvent for the herbs, because it is safe to digest and works much better than other options to extract the true benefits from the herbs.
When the herbs have soaked for a few weeks, the mixture is then strained to remove the herbs or plants that were soaking, leaving the concentrated liquid to use as a remedy.
Some tinctures utilize multiple herbs, while others might use just one. You can either use fresh herbs right out of the garden or dried herbs. For this article, I used dried herbs because I made this in early fall in a northern and cooler region. Fresh herbs weren’t readily available at the time. If you prefer fresh and you also live in a cooler climate, 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 amazingly fresh aroma to it but lemon balm is an herb that is easy to grow and that has incredible healing traits, not just for migraines. If you are considering growing some healing herbs for yourself, make sure to add lemon balm to the list.
Lemon balm has been linked to treating the nervous system as well as having the ability 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: Homemade Hot Pepper Cream for Arthritis & Joint Pain
Feverfew
Just like lemon balm, feverfew also is a great choice in helping to combat headaches stemming from all sorts of ailments as well as severe migraines. And just like lemon balm, it’s easy to grow in a home garden.
An Easy Recipe for a Migraine Tincture

Even though it will take weeks before it’s ready to use, this tincture for migraines is very easy to make, as well as easy to use. First, let’s take a look at the supplies you will 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 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 coming on, start by taking up to a half teaspoon of the lemon balm tincture. Repeat this dosage every 30 to 60 minutes until you feel that all of your symptoms are gone.
Due to the use of alcohol, please seek the advice of your child’s physician before administering the tincture to a minor child.