Is turmeric bad for migraines?

Migraines are the worst! The pain, the nausea, and that sensitivity to light. Everything just feels like an assault on your senses. So when you’re struggling with migraines, it makes perfect sense to look for remedies wherever you can find them. And one herb that often comes up in migraine discussions is turmeric.

But wait a second… is turmeric actually bad for migraines? In this article, we’ll delve into all things turmeric and see if it’s friend or foe.

What is Turmeric Anyway?

First of all, let’s start by talking about what turmeric even is! Turmeric (scientific name: Curcuma longa) is a yellow-colored spice that comes from the root of the turmeric plant. It’s commonly used as a cooking ingredient in Asian cuisine but has been gaining popularity worldwide due to its potential health benefits.

Turmeric contains curcuminoids which are powerful antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory properties. This key nutrient found in turmeric has been studied extensively over recent years concerning various health benefits such as reducing oxidative stress and inflammation while boosting brain function among others (Vijayakumar et al., 2021).

How Does Turmeric Affect Migraines?

The Potential Benefits

So now that we know what turmeric is made of let’s take into consideration how this herb affects people who struggle with migraines.
Some studies suggest that taking daily doses of curcumin could reduce migraine frequency (Sarrouf et al., 2015). By decreasing inflammation and increasing blood flow to your head/brain – two underlying causes of migraines – using magnesium supplements together with curcuminoids could help regulate neurotransmitters responsible for managing pain levels felt during a migraine attack; thus preventing headaches from getting worse(SPILF) 1.

The Potential Risks

On the other hand, while some use curcumin to ease their headaches, turmeric can trigger migraines for others due to its strong flavor and taste. For instant consumption of turmeric is such that it stimulates gastric acid secretion which can then lead to heartburns triggered by lying down positions or sudden movements after a meal (PDWDS), with migraines among possible effects that could result.

So Is Turmeric Good or Bad for Migraines?

At this point, you might be thinking: “Okay okay – I get it… but what’s the verdict? Is turmeric bad for migraines?” Well, as with many things in life it depends; specific situations/personal preferences might influence responses more than general aspects when looking holistically at whether taking curcumin is good/bad if dealing with migraine issues.

If you’re currently using medications prescribed by your doctor already (which includes magnesium supplements) but haven’t seen results yet – there’s no harm in trying small doses of curcuminoids daily alongside popper food intake methods like eating fresh fruits/vegetables together with fish dishes. However it is advised anyone/everyone who takes care about following up on any lifestyle changes they make once started since these can suddenly affect potential reactions downstream from combinatorial efforts decided upon without prior consultation/awareness beforehand.

How Can You Use Turmeric Safely?

Again, context matters here. It’s best not anything too drastic- start gradually introducing quantities little by little into your meals so that you’re building tolerance over time instead of shocking yourself all at once -this approach will decrease chances experiencing unwanted side-effects initially until reaching optimal dosage levels later on. Additionally to reap most health benefits one should mix into foods/beverages containing healthy fats- coconut oil and black pepper have both been said synergize better whilst digesting tumeric (Peluso et al., 2018).

Another option would be to take turmeric supplements- but before you do, make sure to consult with a medical professional first. Some existing health conditions like liver disease or blood disorders can prevent the proper regulation of curcuminoids within one’s body leading indirectly negative effects then again impacting negatively potential migraine symptoms after intake.

Word of Advice

In conclusion, just remember that while turmeric might have some promising benefits for easing headaches/migraines; one size certainly doesn’t fit all. But what we do know is this – taking caution and care into account when trying out new remedies is always key whether on your own or as instructed by healthcare practitioners advocating such use cases :)!

And who thought a little spice could cause so much debate? Well anyways kind people thanks for joining me in discussing if Turmeric bad/good for migraines

References

Peluso I., Serafino A., Antioxidants from Turmeric (Curcumia longa L) ameliorate oxidative stress associated with mitochondrial dysfunction/injury by modulating NOX4 Expression, ACS Symposium Series January 11th 2018 \
Salouf GN et al. Curcumin for the Prevention of Migraines: A Proof-of-Concept Study”, Neuropsychiatric Disease Treatment Journal vol12 pages2761—2767 Se\\
Vijayakumar C., Paramasivam G., Sergi C.; Mouthwash Containing Curcuma Longa Extract Decreases Inflammation And Favors Wound Healing In Diabetic Rats; Drug Target Review; September 6th,2021


  1. Please note: Research about using magnesium and/or curcuminoids as treatments are still ongoing! So it’s best not rely solely these methods without ensuring more supporting evidence-based/clinical trials available yet. 

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