A migraine stick is a topical oil roller that contains a mix of aromatherapy agents. It’s an unproven, natural remedy, but many people with migraine appreciate its benefits.

A migraine stick is an over-the-counter (OTC) homeopathic remedy that claims to help soothe the symptoms of a migraine attack. Migraine sticks work by producing a slight cooling sensation and a dose of aromatherapy.

This compact and easy-to-use topical product is an alternative treatment option that might complement an existing migraine treatment plan. But it’s important to understand that migraine sticks are not an evidence-based treatment for migraine.

This article discusses what a migraine stick is, how it works, and its potential benefits for people seeking relief from migraine symptoms.

Some people report that applying a migraine stick to the temples, forehead, or neck provides a cooling sensation that helps alleviate the throbbing head pain often associated with migraine episodes.

While anecdotal reports are encouraging, scientific studies specifically focusing on the effectiveness of migraine sticks do not exist.

Some studiesTrusted Source suggest aromatherapy, or inhaling plant-based essential oils, might provide some relief from migraine pain. But researchers aren’t sure exactly how or why this works.

A migraine stick combines ingredients like peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus oils. These oils create a cooling and aromatic sensation when applied to your skin.

The menthol in peppermint provides a cooling effect that might help sootheTrusted Source headaches. Lavender may promote relaxation and ease the muscle tension often accompanying migraine episodes. The aroma of eucalyptus oil may also be calming.

Potential benefits include:

  • Cooling sensation: By applying the migraine stick to your temples, forehead, or neck, you can experience a cooling sensation directly where you need it most.
  • Aromatherapy: The aromatic essential oils in migraine sticks may help you relax and reduce stress.
  • No side effects: A migraine stick provides an alternative to oral and injectable migraine medications and has no risk of side effects, like rebound headaches.
  • Quick relief: A migraine stick is portable and easy to apply. It can provide fast comfort, which can help ease the intensity of your pain.
  • Complementary approach: A migraine stick can complement your existing migraine treatment plan, offering an alternative way to manage your symptoms.

Follow these steps to use a migraine stick:

  1. Ensure your skin is clean and dry before use.
  2. Apply the migraine stick in a circular motion to your temples, forehead, or neck. These areas are often associated with migraine discomfort.
  3. Once applied, use your fingertips to massage the product into your skin. Allow the oils to spread evenly to enhance the cooling effect.
  4. Inhale deeply to experience the aromatic benefits of the essential oils. Focus on your breath. Let the soothing aroma promote relaxation.
  5. If you find relief, you can reapply the migraine stick as needed.

When choosing a migraine stick, consider these factors:

  • Ingredients: Opt for a migraine stick with natural ingredients, like peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus oils. Avoid products with potential allergens or artificial additives.
  • Quality: Look for reputable brands known for producing high quality homeopathic products.
  • Scent preference: Since aromatherapy plays a role, choose a migraine stick with a pleasant and soothing scent. A pleasing aroma can enhance the overall experience.
  • Ease of application: Ensure the migraine stick’s design allows for easy and mess-free application so you can use it conveniently whenever you have a migraine attack.
  • Reviews and feedback: Read user reviews and testimonials to find out the migraine stick’s effectiveness and how it has worked for other people with migraine.
  • Safety and allergies: Check for allergens or sensitivities to the ingredients of the migraine stick.
  • Packaging and portability: Opt for a portable and travel-friendly migraine stick so you can have it on hand whenever you need relief, whether at home or on the go.

A migraine stick offers an alternative, convenient approach to soothing migraine symptoms. Some people with migraine have reported experiencing soothing benefits through cooling sensations and aromatic ingredients.

When selecting a migraine stick, prioritize its natural ingredients, scent, ease of application, and quality.

While a migraine stick might help, consider talking with a doctor about how it best fits into your overall migraine treatment plan.