Getting a good night’s rest is key to minimizing migraine attacks, cluster headache and many other types of headache as well. In fact, working at improving sleep may be one of the best ways you can fight migraine and headache.
Our first Community Question had to do with getting to sleep, and your excellent advice can be found here. But I was recently tipped off by Lifehacker that there are some great new articles out there with more quick tips.
First, 10 reader tips from the UK to relieve insomnia. From the more obscure (read a book of legal case studies? Yeah, that would do it…) to the very practical (write down everything on your mind, and get it out of your mind!), there are some good ideas here.
Next, some all-natural herbs to help you sleep (wait – which are the unnatural herbs?). You may have heard of these before, but one we haven’t talked a lot about is valerian root.
Valerian has been used for hundreds of years for sleep and relaxation. Some people find it helps right away, though often it needs to be taken over several weeks to be effective.
Valerian still needs to be studied more. We know it is a powerful herb, and though it usually seems to be safe it can cause side effects (ie headache and agitation). It’s wise to talk to your doctor before taking it.
Valerian has even been studied specifically for use in migraine and epilepsy, though so far the studies have not been conclusive. Some people take it during the day, but for sleep it’s often taken an hour before bedtime in a time-release capsule (such as these 600mg capsules).
Other surprises from these articles include lettuce and celery – a great whole food option that will do you good whether it helps you sleep or not!
What helps you get to sleep? Leave a comment and share your ideas with us!
