Dealing with a headache can cause immense discomfort and can put a dent in your day-to-day activities, making it important to find a natural way to relief. Nature has several remedies which can alleviate pain and lessen stress, and they are as follows:.
1. Peppermint essential oil
Peppermint oil contains menthol which is a known muscle relaxant, which offers relief from headaches. It also has cooling and soothing effects as it increases blood circulation, reducing the inflammation which may cause a headache.
The menthol aroma also can lessen feelings of nausea.
2. Lavender essential oil
Lavender oil comes with a calming scent that makes it a useful tool for migraines and tension headaches caused by stress. It has a relaxing effect that helps reduce anxiety, which is a known trigger of headaches.
Furthermore, it can help combat insomnia which can trigger headaches.
3. Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory characteristics, and it can relieve headaches. Ginger oil can be added to a diffuser or inhaling ginger powder steam. It can also be consumed by adding fresh ginger to tea, it’s recommended to add honey for taste.
4. Butterbur
Butterbur Extract is a herb that has been used for hundreds of years in natural medicine to treat headaches and migraines. It contains certain chemicals that help decrease inflammation, thus lessening migraine frequency and severity.
It is essential to consume small doses as it has high toxin concentrations.
5. Feverfew
The Feverfew plant contains parthenolide, a compound that helps reduce inflammation. It helps decrease tension and lessens migraine symptoms such as pain and nausea.
Studies recommend taking feverfew supplements as it may have side-effects and is not recommended for pregnant women.
6. Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function in the body. Low magnesium (or hypomagnesemia) can lead to headaches. Consuming magnesium-rich foods or supplements can help resolve headache pain.
Foods high in magnesium include spinach, almonds, and avocados.
7. Water
Dehydration or inadequate fluid intake can trigger headaches, especially migraines. Drinking enough water throughout the day can help alleviate headaches or prevent them from occurring.
It’s recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water daily.
8. Yoga and meditation
Stress is a known trigger for headaches and migraines. Yoga practices and meditation can help relax the mind and reduce tension. Yoga practices help reduce tension in the neck, shoulders, and back, which may reduce headaches.
Meditation, when done regularly, can help reduce stress levels and fight anxiety, which are potential triggers for headaches.
9. B-complex vitamins
B-complex vitamins such as B2, aka Riboflavin, can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. They support the nervous system and play a vital role in energy production. Foods high in B vitamins include leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains.
10. Avoiding headache triggers
Many factors could cause headaches, and sometimes avoiding specific triggers can help alleviate headaches. Some triggers include fast food, caffeine, alcohol, or lack of proper sleep.
Keeping a diary to identify triggers can help prevent future headaches.
It’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider, especially while considering herbal supplements. He/she can recommend proper dosage and ensure safe consumption.
Conclusion
Headaches can be painful and disrupt daily activities.
Several natural remedies can help alleviate pain, including peppermint oils, lavender oil, ginger, butterbur, feverfew, magnesium, water, yoga and meditation, B-complex vitamins, and avoiding triggers. Nature has a vast array of remedies, but it’s essential to speak to a healthcare provider to ensure proper consumption, especially while dealing with headaches.