Many people seek complementary and alternative approaches to migraine. Understanding the evidence base helps make informed choices.
Complementary Approaches with Evidence for Migraine
Acupuncture: Several studies show modest effects on migraine symptoms, particularly for anxiety and pain-related presentations.
Yoga: One of the best-evidenced complementary approaches — multiple mechanisms relevant to migraine.
Massage therapy: Reduces cortisol and increases serotonin — documented effects on migraine symptom severity.
Supplements: Omega-3s, magnesium, and vitamin D have meaningful evidence for some migraine presentations.
Complementary Approaches with Limited Evidence for Migraine
Crystal healing, homeopathy, and many energy medicine approaches lack scientific evidence for migraine. Risk of harm is low, but opportunity cost of forgoing evidence-based treatment is real.
Using Complementary Approaches Safely for Migraine
Complementary approaches work best as additions to, not replacements for, evidence-based migraine treatment. Always inform your healthcare providers of everything you're using.