Uncommon Headache Cures

People often want a quick fix for a headache, but supplementing your body with the right vitamins, minerals, and herbs can gradually lead to a long-term improvement in headache frequency and healing. Two Pharmaca Integrated Pharmacy staffers, clinical herbalist Helen Joffe and naturopath Erin Stokes, say specific herbs and supplements can help with headaches. They recommend working with an expert to figure out the supplement mix that's best for you. Joffe often prescribes herbal extracts that help a person relax, such as skullcap, valerian, and passion flower. She also looks at improving a person's circulation by using ginger and gingko. A stronger herb, such as gelsemium, a type of jasmine, is effective but must be used with the guidance of a practitioner. Stokes also suggests coenzyme Q10, vitamin B2 and riboflavin for her patients. Magnesium is important, says Stokes, both for people who get migraines and tension headaches. "The dosage is going to vary depending on the person and his needs," she says, so consult with an expert to figure out what's right for you.