14 Natural Remedies for Headache Relief

Headaches can be caused by a number of triggers, such as lack of asleep, stress, dehydration or illness. Taking an OTC medicine may provide relief for the symptom, but not treat the root cause. A headache, just like any symptom, is your body’s way of trying to tell you something. Your headache could be your body’s way of signaling that something is lacking in your diet such as water, or even specific nutrients. It is always important to get to the root cause of your symptoms, but in the mean time you may want to give these natural remedies a try.

Acupressure-Tension in the muscles of the neck, shoulders and head can constrict the blood vessels that supply oxygen to the nerve cells of the brain, resulting in a headache. A very under rated treatment for headache relief is acupressure.

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B complex-Many people who live with migraines are actually deficient in B vitamins. It’s rare to consume too many B vitamins, as they are water soluble and eliminated through the passing of urine. They have also proven effective for stress related headaches.

Chiropractor-Chiropractic care is a great way to reduce stress on the body. Spinal manipulation therapy may help treat migraine headaches. In one study of people with migraines, 22% of those who received chiropractic manipulation reported more than a 90% reduction of attacks. Also, 49% reported a significant reduction of the intensity of each migraine.

Deep Breathing-Performing deep breathing exercises are important to relieving stress, as well as calming your heart rate and relieving muscle tension.

Detox Bath-Toxin overload can easily contribute to your headache and general malaise. Consider adding detox baths as a regular part of your weekly regimen.

 

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Detox Bath Options-Epsom Salt-2 C. salt to your tub. Magnesium is a wonderful muscle relaxer. Baking Soda-1 C. to your tub. Baking soda not only softens the skin it helps to kill bacteria.  Apple Cider Vinegar-Add 2 C. ACV to the tub for headache relief. ACV also tones the skin and can provide relief from poison ivy and sunburn.

Elimination Diet-Some food allergens can trigger headaches, such as lactose, gluten or MSG. Consider an elimination diet to help determine if you have headaches triggered by foods.  Elimination diets require that you avoid common allergens for 3 weeks. Journal your diet and note any reactions to the food you are eating. Gradually add one food item at a time to your diet and note any reactions. If negative symptoms occur, immediately eliminate that food from your diet.

Essential Oils-Many essential oils such as peppermint and lavender can provide a calming and relaxing effect on the body. Lavender has been shown to be beneficial for migraines.   This study conducted in 2012 measured the effects of inhaling lavender oil for 15 minutes. Out of 129 headache attacks, 92 responded to the lavender oil remedy.

Gluten Sensitivity-Whether you are gluten intolerant or gluten sensitive, consuming foods that contain gluten can increase the quantity and frequency of your headaches.

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Herbs –There are many herbs that are beneficial for headaches. The Albert Einstein College of Medicine shows that butterbur provides relief for migraines. Ginger is useful for tension headaches as well as headaches related to jaw and sinus problems. Gingko Biloba is beneficial for mental alertness and improving memory issues by dilating blood vessels in the brain. This also helps to minimize headaches. Some herbs can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, always discuss herbs with your health care provider.

Hydration with Fruits & Veggies consider adding these fruits and veggies to your diet in order to stay hydrated throughout the day: Cucumbers, celery, cabbage, cauliflower, cantaloupe, eggplant, grapefruit, green peppers, oranges, radishes, spinach, strawberries, watermelon and zucchini

Magnesium-Many people who have chronic headaches are magnesium deficient. Adding or increasing magnesium in your diet offers a number of benefits including headache relief. Low levels of magnesium can contribute to numerous problems including irregular rate rates, muscle spasms, etc.

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Massage-Many headaches are attributed to stress. Consider treating yourself to a regular massage to help relax muscles and relieve tension.

Stretching Exercises-This 2012 study showed a 69% decrease in headache frequency and severity through stretching exercises.

Water-Headaches are often triggered by dehydration. Not consuming enough water throughout the day or substituting sodas, sugar laden drinks, alcohol or caffeine also contribute to dehydration.

 

                             

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My Health Maven offers information on a wholistic approach to healthy lifestyle choices.