Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help Treat and Prevent Migraines?

What are Migraines?

Migraines are more than just bad headaches. They are a neurological condition that involves severe head pain along with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Migraine attacks typically occur in phases. Prodrome symptoms like mood changes and food cravings can begin up to 24 hours before the headache phase starts. The intense head pain lasts 4 to 72 hours on average. Postdrome symptoms like fatigue can linger afterwards.

Migraines often run in families and are more common in women. Triggers like stress, hormones, sleep changes, dehydration, and certain foods or odors can set off attacks in susceptible individuals.

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting apple juice until the sugars turn into acetic acid. This sour liquid has been used for centuries as a health tonic and natural remedy.

Unfiltered, organic ACV contains a cobweb-like substance called the mother. This contains beneficial probiotics, enzymes, and nutrients that may account for some of ACVs proposed benefits.

ACV is rich in acetic acid and believed to have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties when consumed. However, current evidence for its effectiveness is limited.

How Could ACV Help Migraines?

A few potential ways apple cider vinegar may help with migraines include:

• Lowers blood sugar - Stabilizing blood sugar could reduce frequency of migraine attacks triggered by blood sugar fluctuations.
• Lowers blood pressure - Improving overall cardiovascular function may alleviate migraine.
• Contains magnesium - Magnesium deficiency is linked to headaches and ACV contains modest amounts.
• Reduces inflammation - The anti-inflammatory properties may deactivate triggers.
• Relieves nausea - The acetic acid may settle an unsettled stomach during a migraine.

However, there is currently limited scientific evidence that ACV is effective for migraine. The potential benefits are theoretical and anecdotal at this point.

ACV Migraine Relief Methods

For those interested in trying ACV for migraines, here are some commonly suggested methods:

Drinking Diluted ACV

Mix 1-2 tablespoons ACV into a glass of water or fruit juice and drink once or twice daily. You can also take as a shot mixed with a small amount of juice to mask the strong flavor.

Drinking ACV may help prevent migraines or could possibly stop a migraine attack early on when taken at the first signs.

ACV Soak

Add 1-2 cups ACV to a warm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes. The acetic acid may be absorbed through the skin. Some find this reduces headache pain and nausea.

ACV Compress

Soak a washcloth in diluted ACV, wring it out, and apply to the forehead or back of neck. The antimicrobial properties may soothe, and the vinegar scent can relieve nausea. Re-soak the cloth as needed.

ACV Roll On

Apply diluted ACV to pressure points on the head, neck, and feet using a roller bottle. This may help relieve pain and relax tight muscles contributing to migraine tension.

Always dilute ACV before applying topically to prevent skin burns. Mix 1 part ACV with 3 parts water.

Apple Cider Vinegar Risks and Considerations

While generally safe for most, using ACV does come with some potential side effects and risks to keep in mind:

• ACV can erode tooth enamel over time, so rinse mouth after drinking.
• It may irritate the esophagus or stomach lining, especially in undiluted form.
• Topical applications may cause chemical burns if not adequately diluted.
• Interactions with certain medications like diuretics, insulin, and digoxin are possible.
• Those with gastroparesis or acid reflux may be more prone to side effects.

Introduce ACV gradually and discontinue use if any worrisome symptoms develop. It should never replace doctor-prescribed migraine treatment.

Other Natural Remedies for Migraines

In addition to ACV, some other complementary approaches to help soothe migraine symptoms include:

• Heat or ice - Hot compresses or cold packs can relieve head and neck tension.
• Massage - Gentle massage of the head, neck, and shoulders may ease muscle tightness.
• Relaxation techniques - Methods like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga calm the nervous system.
• Aromatherapy - Essential oils like peppermint and lavender have antimicrobial and calming properties.
• Proper sleep and diet - Following consistent sleep and eating patterns can prevent triggers.

Such remedies may be used in conjunction with standard migraine treatments. But be sure to check with your doctor first regarding any interactions or cautions.

When to See a Doctor for Migraines

While complementary methods may help, it's vital to seek proper medical treatment for recurring migraines. See a doctor promptly if you experience:

• Migraine symptoms for the first time
• New migraine symptoms or pattern changes
• Migraines that increase in frequency or severity
• Migraines that dont respond to standard treatment
• Migraines accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness

Sudden changes could signify an underlying medical condition requiring diagnosis. Seeking appropriate treatment can help prevent migraine progression and long-term consequences.

The Bottom Line on ACV for Migraines

Some people may find mixing a tablespoon or two of ACV into water or juice helps provide migraine relief. It poses little risk to try alongside standard treatments. But there is limited scientific proof that ACV effectively prevents or stops migraine attacks.

See a doctor to get proper medical care for recurring migraines. But adding some ACV to your daily routine just may offer you additional symptom relief in between attacks.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.