Migraines are often severe and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, throbbing or sharp pain, and sensitivity to light and sound. Sufferers may experience pain lasting for several hours and up to three days after an attack.
Each person who suffers with chronic migraines may have their own individual triggers. Some of the most common reasons for these headaches are hormonal imbalances, stress, and even certain types of smells. Foods like cheese, wine, bacon and chocolate have also been shown to contribute to migraine headaches. Another cause may be liver congestion, and dandelion root is an excellent liver cleanser.
Keep Track of Headaches
There are usually warning signs before a migraine comes on, alerting the person to the fact that a headache is looming. Vision disturbances such as flashing lights, blind spots or fuzziness are common. Mental confusion and a metallic smell are also pre-migraine symptoms for some. The vast majority of sufferers do experience one or more warning signs, though some people don’t know when a headache is imminent.
By making notes of daily activities, foods eaten, sleep habits and stress levels, those who get migraines may be able to pinpoint what is setting off their attacks and take steps to avoid them.
Liver Congestion Linked To Migraines
Mark A. Stengler, NMD of the La Jolla Whole Health Clinic wrote the article, "Liver Function Can Be At The Root Of Migraine Pain". He says the liver is a busy organ, constantly processing chemicals and nutrients, as well as breaking down fats and helping the body to eliminate waste products. Dr. Stengler goes on to say that pain in the temples can point to gallbladder problems and liver congestion.
Dandelion for Liver Detox
Dandelion root has been used for centuries by herbalists for detoxification, especially for cleansing the liver. The root contains bitter glycosides, tannins, sterols, triterpenes, choline, volatile oil, asparagin, and inulin. These are all excellent for the liver and aid in removing toxins.
Buying Dandelion Root
When buying dandelion, be sure to purchase it from a reliable company, such as iHerb.com or another trusted website or store. With capsules, check the ingredients to be sure that it contains dandelion root and no fillers. If using liquid dandelion, check to see if dandelion root is listed as the first ingredient before alcohol, water or glycerin.
All companies need to list their ingredients from most to least amount used in the product. By choosing products that have dandelion listed first it shows that the product is stronger than those with only a small amount of the root, combined with many other ingredients someone doesn't want or need for migraine headaches.
Some people choose dandelion extract over capsules since absorption is much quicker with liquid. Capsules or tablets need to be absorbed through the digestive system and only a small amount of the actual herb may enter the bloodstream.
Using dandelion root to cleanse the liver can help by removing toxins that have built up over time. Once these toxins are released and ultimately eliminated from the body, migraine episodes may lessen or completely vanish over time.
Sources:
Medline Plus, "Migraine." (accessed February 10, 2010)
Kelly Wallace - Kelly is a seasoned freelance writer, multi-published author, radio show host, teacher, speaker and highly acclaimed intuitive ...
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