According to the University of Maryland Medicine, as of May 2003, up to 45 million Americans experience disabling, chronic and severe headaches. The majority of headaches are classified as primary, which means it is either a tension, vascular, or cluster headache. Secondary headaches are less common and are usually the result of another medical condition; these types of headaches can be traction or inflammatory headaches.
The most popular remedy for headache pain includes over-the-counter, non-prescription pain relievers. However, certain types of herbs may provide relief from and help prevent headache pain with a lower chance of producing negative side effects. Alternative treatments, such as Chinese herbal medicine, should not replace conventional medicine; consult with your health care provider prior to using Chinese herbs for headaches.
Bai Zhi
Bai zhi is also known as angelica. According to John Chen, Ph.D., this herb can help relieve sinus pressure headaches. Bai zhi can help clear nasal congestion and relieve frontal headaches and pain around your eyes. You can also use this herb to help relieve pain that may be caused by a toothache.
Chuan Xiong
Chuan xiong, also known as Sichuan lovage rhizome, is an essential herb in Chinese medicine to help relieve all types of aches and pains, according to Dr. Chen. This herb can help relieve headache pain of any origin, but it is especially useful for women who experience menstrual headaches.
Qiang Huo
Qiang huo is also known as notopterygium. Dr. Chen states that this herb can be an effective remedy for headaches that occur at the base of your skull, or occipital region. Qiang huo helps relieve headaches that are accompanied by a sensation of heaviness in your head or if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever or muscle aches.
Gao Ben
Gao ben, also known as ligusticum, can help relieve headaches that are located at the top of your head. According to Dr. Chen, this herb is especially useful if your headache is worse when you are exposed to wind or cold weather. You can also use this herb to help treat migraines or frontal headaches.
Man Jing Zi
Man jing zi is also known as vitex, or chastetree fruit. In Chinese medicine, this herb is commonly used to relieve headaches, especially in the temporal region. You may find man jing zi beneficial if you have a headache with other symptoms, such as dizziness or facial swelling. Dr. Chen states that this herb may also help reduce frontal or migraine headache pain, especially when used in combination with other Chinese herbs.
References
- "Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology;" John Chen, Ph.D. and Tina Chen, MS, L.Ac.; 2001
- University of Maryland Medicine: Headaches
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