Headaches most frequently result from tight, contracted muscles in the neck and shoulders, lack of sleep, use of alcohol, inflammation of the sinus cavities, stress or lack of caffeine in people who regularly consume the substance. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, more serious causes of headaches rarely occur. Over-the-counter pain-relievers offer relief, but several alternative remedies may also help when used as directed. Talk to your doctor before taking any new supplement, especially if you take prescription drugs.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint essential oil has pain-relieving properties and may help sufferers of tension-type headaches. A study published in the German medical journal Der Nervenarzt found that a 10 percent peppermint oil solution applied to the temples three times over 30 minutes worked better than placebo at reducing headache pain. Researchers also found that the solution was as effective as acetaminophen--a common ingredient found in over-the-counter pain relievers--in treating headaches. Diluting 15 drops pure peppermint oil in 1/2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil or pure grain alcohol produces a solution of approximately the same strength used in the study. Apply this directly to the temples as needed to relieve pain.
Butterbur
An extract made from butterbur, a small herbaceous plant native to Eurasia, may help reduce the intensity and frequency of migraine headaches. According to a study published in Neurology, patients taking 75mg butterbur extract daily for four months had a significant reduction in the number of headaches experienced compared with placebo. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 50mg to 75mg standardized butterbur extract twice daily to prevent headaches. Consult your doctor for a safe dosage and extract if you want to take this herb for headaches. Pregnant or nursing women should not take butterbur.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin, a constituent of cayenne pepper, may reduce levels of the nerve chemical responsible for pain transmission known as substance P. This ability may provide relief from cluster headaches, according to a study published in the Clinical Journal of Pain. In the study, patients who received 300mcg of capsaicin applied to the nasal mucosa experienced a significant reduction in attacks for up to 60 days after the treatment. Because capsaicin can cause burning and irritation, you should use this treatment only under the supervision of a qualified medical professional. Consult your doctor for safe dosage and application instructions.
Melatonin
Melatonin, a sleep hormone naturally secreted by the body's pineal gland, may help reduce episodic, chronic and migraine headaches. A study published in Neurological Sciences, the official journal of the Italian Neurological Society, examined children plagued by migraines. Researchers found that children taking 3mg melatonin supplement before bed for three months experienced a 50 percent reduction in headache episodes. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends adults take 5mg melatonin each night before bed to prevent headaches.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Headache
- PubMed.gov: Effectiveness of Oleum Menthae Piperitae and Paracetamol in Therapy of Headache of the Tension Type
- Neurology: Petasites Hybridus Root (Butterbur) is an Effective Preventive Treatment for Migraine
- PubMed.gov: Beneficial Effect of Capsaicin Application to the Nasal Mucosa in Cluster Headache
- PubMed.gov: Melatonin to Prevent Migraine or Tension-Type Headache in Children
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