Natural health: Migraine treatments and oil pulling

Megan Sheppard answers readers queries on migraines and oil pulling.

My wife suffers migraines, particularly when she is under stress or coming down with an illness. She finds that it helps to lie in a darkened room with no sounds, smells, or any other sensations. Is there anything that she can take to stop these, as they really take it out of her?

It is good that you both have a reasonable idea of what actually triggers the migraines for your wife, as this can be difficult to ascertain. Common triggers include bright light, allergies and intolerances, strong odours, stress, cigarette smoke, loud noise, sleep disturbance, skipping meals, contraceptive pill, Monosodium glutamate (MSG) or nitrites in food, alcohol, caffeine, or even the hormonal changes associated with menstruation.