A headache is a discomfort or pain in the head, neck or scalp. The most common form of headaches, called tension headache, is typically caused by tight muscles in the jaw, scalp, neck and shoulders and are often related to depression, stress and anxiety. Other causes of headaches include caffeine, certain foods such as cheese and chocolate, grinding your teeth and a poor sleep position. Some supplements, such as St. John's wort and phenylalanine, may also cause headaches. A doctor should always be consulted if a headache lasts more than a couple of days.
Phenylalanine
Phenylalanine, an essential amino acid, can't be made by the body and so has to be obtained from the diet. This amino acid is also found as a supplement in tablet, powder and capsule form. Phenylalanine is found in three forms: L-phenylalanine, which is the natural form found in protein foods such as meat, eggs, fish, milk and yogurt; D-phenylalanine, which is made in a laboratory and is the mirror image of L-phenylalanine; and a combination of these two forms called DL-phenylalanine.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, phenylalanine may be useful for chronic pain, depression and Parkinson's disease; however, dosages over 5,000 mg may cause headaches. Speak to your doctor before using any supplement.
Valerian
Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a herb that is native to Europe, Asia and the Americas. Valerian is commonly combined with other herbs such as lemon balm and hops to treat insomnia. According to MedlinePlus, valerian appears to act like a sedative on the nervous system and brain and may also be useful for other conditions such as, anxiety, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, menopausal symptoms and joint pain. However, MedlinePlus also comments that valerian may cause side effects such as headaches. Before taking any herbal product, consult your doctor.
Peppermint
Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a herb that is native to Europe but is now found throughout the world. Peppermint is a popular flavoring for chewing gum, toothpaste and ice cream but is also available as a tea and in supplement form. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint has a calming effect on the body and may be helpful for certain conditions such as anxiety, indigestion, flatulence, diarrhea and nausea. According to MedlinePlus, peppermint may cause side effects such as headaches, mouth sores and heartburn. Before using peppermint, consult your doctor.
St. John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort or goatweed, is a herb with bright yellow flowers that is native to North Africa, Asia and Europe. According to the American Cancer Society, St. John's wort may be useful for anxiety, depression and sleep disorders such as insomnia. The American Cancer Society comments that St. John's wort may have side effects such as headaches, constipation, fatigue, dizziness, skin rashes, extreme sensitivity to sunlight and stomach upsets. If you are thinking of using St. John's wort, speak with your doctor.
