Levagen+  is a remedy made from palmitoylethanolamide or PEA: a fatty chemical that’s widely found in bodily tissues. PEA is created naturally by the body, including in response to pain, stress and injury. It’s also present in foods including soybeans, peanuts and egg yolks. 

In one 2020 study, the ingredient Levagen+, a clinically studied, bioavailable form of PEA, was shown to offer equal effectiveness to ibuprofen as a headache treatment.

In fact, Levagen+ was faster than ibuprofen in resolving severe headaches, while ibuprofen performed better for people with moderate headaches. 

These results may support use of Levagen+ as an alternative in place of pharmaceutical treatments, though more research is needed. 

However, Levagen+ is gaining momentum as an alternative to CBD (cannabidiol derived from the Cannabis sativa species) which is often also used for natural pain relief, but not everyone is comfortable using it.

 Increase your magnesium intake 

Magnesium deficiency is known to be linked to headaches and migraines. Some scientists suggest that magnesium helps to block signals in the brain that otherwise lead to migraines, particularly those that also affect our vision and senses. 

If you are suffering from migraines, it’s worth looking at the magnesium content in your diet. This includes headaches related to getting your period – as some research has linked the onset of a migraine to lower levels.

We typically get this vital mineral from eating plenty of magnesium-rich foods in our diet, such as nuts and seeds; beans and dark-green leafy vegetables are also a good source. For a more significant magnesium boost that might help reduce a deficiency, consider a magnesium supplement, such as Nature’s Truth Magnesium Softgels, which are easy to swallow. 

Try lavender oil for migraines

Some people believe that breathing in the scent of lavender oil helps to alleviate migraine pain and the severity of headaches, including if inhaled in the early stages of an attack. It’s a claim for which further scientific evidence is needed. 

Lavender essential oil can be applied topically to the skin (but only if first diluted with a carrier oil), or enjoyed with the use of a roll-on, which is easy to apply to your temples and use on-the-go. You can also try a diffuser to dispel the aroma into the air, or, if you don’t have one to hand, use a lavender mist spray. 

 Can peppermint help with migraines?

Peppermint essential oil is associated with focus and mood-lifting qualities. 

But peppermint could also be of interest to people who suffer from migraines. One 2019 study in the USA suggested that use of peppermint oil might help to reduce the intensity of migraines, though further studies are needed.

Avoid applying topically without first diluting with a carrier oil – or reach for a diffuser or oil burner to reap the rewards as explained above. 

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