11. Try some butterbur.
The name of this perennial shrub is attributed to the large leaves being used to wrap butter during warm weather. But these days it's used for more than wrapping butter.

Butterbur ^[1] from the daisy family, sold in health food stores, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can relieve spasms and decrease swelling in the head.

But Grosberg warns that unrefined butterbur root contains potentially liver-damaging alkaloids. He recommends only taking an extract with those ingredients removed.

The Migraine Trust research and advocacy organization suggests the detoxified herb marketed under the brand name Petadolex®, along with other commercially available butterbur products that are free of alkaloids when they are used short-term and in recommended doses.

Consult with your doctor before trying this or any other herb to make sure it's safe for you, especially if you are taking medications for your headaches or another health condition and may not be aware of possible interactions. Also ask your doctor about the dosage that's right for you.

Long-term health effects and interaction with other drugs have not been studied so it is not yet known if there are any side effects from long term use, according to the Migraine Trust.

12. Stuff yourself with spinach.
Popeye knew the secret to warding off headaches: Eat plenty of spinach, which is high in the mineral magnesium, which prevents blood vessels from going into spasms.

As many as half the people who experience acute migraine attacks have low blood levels of magnesium, says Alexander Mauskop, M.D., director and founder of the New York Headache Center in New York City.

Other magnesium-rich foods include whole grains, tofu, fish, seeds, avocados, spices, nuts, cereals, coffee, cocoa, tea, and vegetables. Leafy vegetables (like spinach), as well as grains and nuts, generally have higher magnesium content than meats and dairy products.