Remedies for migraines, stomach ache and sore feet

If you suffer from migraines, stomach aches or sore feet, you know that they can make your day miserable. The following natural remedies may ease your discomfort, but be sure to check with your doctor before trying them.

If you suffer from migraines, the following natural remedies may help to alleviate your symptoms – for some people they can be as effective as conventional drugs.

• Take magnesium and calcium to help maintain blood vessels and nerve health.
• Take the herb feverfew. When used over several months, it can reduce the frequency of migraines.
• If you know that stress brings on a migraine, try biofeedback or relaxation training.
• Eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids – for example, salmon and tuna – reduces the likelihood of clotting and so it may help to prevent your migraines.

Don't let a stomach ache ruin your day – try these natural approaches to preventing or easing the effect of stomach aches.

• Have a cup of tea. Chamomile is especially good for pain from tension or sluggish digestion. Parsley-seed tea reduces wind and relaxes the intestinal muscles. Peppermint tea is excellent for cramping.
• Depending on your symptoms, try these homeopathic remedies: Nux vomica if you've eaten or drunk too much and feel queasy, or Arsenicum album if you have heartburn and you also feel chilled.
• Try stress-relieving strategies, such as regular exercise and relaxation. When you're stressed, blood levels of stimulating hormones increase and make the muscles in your stomach tense, which can lead to the sensation of butterflies in the stomach or actual pain.

Tired feet can slow you down on an otherwise productive day. Try these natural remedies to show your feet some love.

• Take off your shoes and sit down. Stretch your legs out and rotate both ankles clockwise and then anticlockwise. Wiggle your toes.
• Massage your feet. Use your thumbs to rub up and down the arch of each foot with firm circular movements. Roll each foot over a rolling pin or empty bottle while seated for a quick mini-massage.
• Soak your feet for 10 minutes in a basin of warm water containing 30 millilitres (2 tablespoons) of Epsom salts. Pat dry, then wrap a few ice cubes in a wet cloth and rub it over your feet and ankles for a zingy effect.

With these natural remedies, you can reduce the likelihood of your day being pushed off course by a migraine, stomach ache or sore feet. Just be sure to check with your doctor before trying a new remedy for the first time.