Those who suffer from chronic headache often resort to regular
use of painkiller such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Unfortunately,
these medications aren't free of side effects and can cause problem over
time. If you're ready to try a different route to pain relief, check
out the following list of top natural remedies for headache.
1. Essential Oil
Certain
essential oils have properties that can aid in relaxation and alleviate
headache. Lavender and peppermint are particularly effective. Try
massaging a small amount-a few drops should be enough-onto your wrists.
If you'd rather not apply topically, mix a few drops of oil in a bowl of
very hot water and breathe in the aroma for a few minutes.
2. Drink Extra Fluid
Dehydration
is one of the most common causes of headache. Sometimes, though, it can
be difficult to know whether or not you're taking in enough fluids. If
you're experiencing a dull headache that won't seem to go away, try
drinking a few extra glasses of water and see if that helps.
3. Wear A Mouth Guard While Sleeping
Many
of us grind our teeth while sleeping, particularly during stressful
periods in our lives. While we may not even realize we are grinding our
teeth, one of the first signs is headache during the day. If you ever
wake up to realize that you are grinding or tensing your jaws, be sure
to consider that this may be the source of your headache. Wearing a
mouth guard while sleeping can prevent damage to your teeth and help to
relieve headache resulting from teeth-grinding.
4. Ginger Tea
Ginger
tea can be a delicious way to cure a headache. Crush or grate about 1
inch of fresh ginger, steep in boiling water for ten minutes, then stain
and drink. Not only is this effective for headache, but some say it can
also help to prevent or cure the common cold.
5. Focused Relaxation
Stress
is one of the number one causes of headache. There are many different
techniques of focused relaxation that may help. One such method involves
concentrating one's attention on each body part, one at a time, first
tensing that part of the body, and then focusing on completely relaxing
the same part. It takes practice, but can be very effective once
mastered.
6. Apple
You may have heard
this one from your grandmother. Eating an apple is an age-old remedy for
headache. There are various theories about why this is effective. Some
say it helps balance the alkaline and acidic levels in the body; others
say that the effect is due to flavonoid or other properties of the apple
itself. Regardless of the reason, it can't hurt to try this simple
remedy.
Anyone who suffers from headache will be looking for the best pain treatment.
Although medications can be effective, there are downsides to taking
them regularly. Next time a headache emerges, try giving one or more of
these tips a try and see if it helps reduce the pain.
