Since time immemorial, humankind has suffered from headaches and has used a variety of methods to get relief. In modern times, a broad array of pharmaceutical medications is available over-the counter and by prescription for this purpose. However, there are also a number of natural remedies that you can use to get rid of headaches.
Acupressure
Acupressure, a form of Chinese touch therapy, may be used to alleviate headaches, according to HealthLine.com. It involves applying finger pressure to specific points on the body, called acupressure points, to relieve the pain. AltMD notes that one of the best known acupressure points for relieving headaches is located in the fleshy web between the thumb and forefinger. Squeeze this pressure point with the thumb and forefinger of one hand for one minute. Do the same on your other hand.
Aromatherapy
The volatile oils contained in certain herbs have wonderfully soothing, pain-relieving properties for people suffering from headaches. In the book "The Herbal drugstore," Linda B. White, M.D. reports that the menthol content in peppermint can be used both internally and externally to relieve pain. She suggests sipping a cup of peppermint tea as you sit in a bath that contains 10 drops of peppermint essential oil. You can brew peppermint tea by steeping two teaspoons of dried peppermint in one cup of water for 15 minutes. After the bath, stir two drops of peppermint oil in one teaspoon of almond or olive oil and use this to massage your forehead, temples and neck.
Magnesium Supplements
Taking magnesium supplements may help alleviate headaches. In a 2007 article published on MotherEarthNews.com, Linda B. White, M.D. cites clinical studies showing that oral magnesium may be a beneficial, inexpensive remedy for headaches, particularly in individuals who suffer from a magnesium deficiency. She suggests taking 400 to 600 milligrams a day of magnesium oxide supplements to relieve and prevent migraine headaches.
Hydrotherapy
The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine lists hydrotherapy as an effective remedy for headaches. The book recommends taking a hot or cold shower to relieve your headache or placing your feet in hot water while holding an ice pack to your forehead. The Farmer's Almanac notes that a foot soak helps relieve headaches by diverting blood away from your head to your feet. Place your feet in water at a temperature of 95°F, and then gradually add hot water until the temperature rises to about 115°F. Let your feet soak for several minutes, and then gradually add cooler water until it is lukewarm. Dry your feet, pull on thick socks and lie down for 15 minutes.
References
- HealthLine: Headache Information on HealthLine
- AltMD:Acupressure for Headaches
- AltMD: Headaches
- "The herbal drugstore;" Linda B. White and Steven Foster; 2000
- Mother Earth News: Natural Headache Remedies
