Natural Migraine Treatment
Ergot alkaloids (ergotamine, dihydroergotamine)
These chemicals are derived from a fungus which grows on damp rye and has a very colourful history, being blamed for visions and demonic possessions in the Middle Ages as well as giving rise to hallucogenic drugs today. They are used at the onset of a migraine attack.
How treatment works
Ergotamine causes immediate and intense vasoconstriction of the extra cerebral arteries.
Brand names
. Migril (ergotamine)
. Cafergot (ergotamine)
. Lingraine (ergotamine)
. Migranal (dihydroergotamine).
Disadvantages of Natural Treatment for Migraine
Tissues may become deprived of oxygen because of the intensity of vaso-constriction caused by this drug. At worst necrosis (tissue death) and gangrene may occur. Ischaemia and irritation of the digestive tract, as well as disturbance of vagus nerve control can result in diarrhea and vomiting.
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