Over 39 million Americans suffer from migraines. They are more than just headaches—they’re intense, often debilitating events that can come with nausea, visual disturbances, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Medications are often the first line of defense, however, there are usually adverse consequences that come with medications. For some, being proactive by using natural remedies at the early signs of onset can ease symptoms for quicker recovery. One surprisingly simple yet effective technique involves soaking your feet in hot water.
How It Can Help
Putting your feet in hot water dilates the blood vessels in the lower extremities. This causes a shift in blood flow from the head to the feet, helping to reduce the pressure and inflammation in the blood vessels in your brain. Inflammation and pressure are thought to be one of the key factors triggering migraine pain.
By drawing blood away from the head, people may feel relief from the throbbing, pulsating sensation often associated with migraines.
Hot Water on our Nervous System
Hot water immersion also stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system—the “rest and digest” mode of the body. During a migraine, our sympathetic nervous system – the “fight or flight” mode, is over stimulated. The warmth from the hot water helps us to relax, reduces stress, and helps the muscles (especially those in the neck and shoulders) to soften. Since tension in these areas can contribute to migraine onset or intensity, reducing muscular tension can help ease migraine symptoms.
For even greater benefits, enhance the hot foot soak by adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender or peppermint. Both are known for their soothing, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties. Adding Epsom salt can also help, as magnesium deficiencies have been linked to migraines, and transdermal absorption through the skin may offer mild supplemental support.
How Hot is Hot?
You don’t want the water temperature to be too hot. A good rule of thumb is to aim for water that’s between 100°F to 110°F. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes and stay aware of how you feel. Hydrating during the process is very important – especially if using Epsom salt.
When and Why It Works Best
This technique is most effective at the onset of a migraine or when you feel one coming on. While it may not completely eliminate every migraine, many people report noticeable relief. It’s safe, non-invasive, and inexpensive — making it a great complementary option.
Soaking your feet in hot water may not be a cure for migraines, but it’s a gentle, natural remedy that offers real relief for many sufferers. Even if it isn’t effective in eliminating migraine, its relaxation and physiological benefits can only help you lessen the severity at almost no cost.