Tension headaches are a common phenomenon that, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, affect around 78 percent of the population. A tension headache often starts at the back of the head and moves forward. You may also experience a tightening of the muscles in your jaw, neck and shoulders. Tension headaches may be triggered by a number of factors, including stress, anxiety, eye strain and certain medications. Over-the-counter analgesics are often effective in alleviating headache, although if your headaches are very severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger treatments. Some herbs may also help to alleviate a tension headache, although evidence to prove that they work is limited. Get medical advice before using any new treatments.
Examples
The UMMC website notes that several herbs may help to alleviate a tension headache, including butterbur and feverfew. Also known as Petasites hybridus, butterbur contains compounds known as petasins, which may help to prevent headaches and are often used to treat migraines. RxList.com notes that feverfew contains a chemical called parthenolide that reduces the likelihood of suffering a headache. UMMC suggests taking 50 mg to 75 mg of a standardized extract of butterbur twice daily, or a dose of feverfew that is equivalent to 250 mcg of parthenolide, daily. Your doctor will also be able to advise you on a suitable dose.
Efficacy
Studies examining the role of these herbs in the treatment of tension headaches specifically are lacking. However several studies have found that the butterbur and feverfew may help to prevent or alleviate more severe migraine headaches. For example, the results of the study by R.B.Lipton et al., published in the December 2004 issue of "Neurology," found that butterbur was more effective than placebo in preventing a migraine headache. Likewise, the results of a randomized, double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled study by H.C. Diener and colleagues, published in the November 2005 issue of "Cephalgia," show that feverfew reduced the frequency of migraine headaches.
Side Effects
RxList.com notes that short-term use of feverfew is likely safe, however, it may cause side effects that include flatulence, diarrhea, vomiting and heartburn. Do not use this herb for longer than four months, as its safety beyond this time frame is unknown. Feverfew may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to members of the daisy family of plants. Butterbur is likely safe, but ensure that you choose a supplement that states that all pyrrolizidine alkaloids have been removed, as these chemicals may cause liver damage.
Considerations
Do not use either of these herbs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid taking feverfew two weeks prior to surgery, as it may increase your risk of bleeding during the procedure. Feverfew may interact with anticoagulant drugs, while both herbs may also interact with medicines that are modified by the liver.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Tension Headache
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Butterbur
- RxList: Feverfew
- "Neurology"; Petasites Hybridus Root (Butterbur) Is an Effective Preventive Treatment for Migraine; R.B. Lipton et al.; December 2004
- "Cephalgia"; Efficacy and Safety of 6.25 Mg T.I.D. Feverfew CO2-Extract (MIG-99) in Migraine Prevention: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Multicentre, Placebo-Controlled Study; H.C. Diener et al.; November 2005
- RxList: Butterbur
