Are long screen hours giving you a headache? Well, we can relate! And while the first thought is to pop a paracetamol we’d suggest trying a home remedy first. Although medicines can be a quick fix for headaches, it's best to avoid them, because they come with their fair share of side effects.
Ideally, we must incorporate safer methods to cure headaches instead of taking drugs. Pills should be the last resort when nothing else works, and we should try less invasive methods instead.
Headaches vary from mild to severe, which can hamper your day-to-day activity. There are several home remedies for headaches. But first, you need to know about the different types of headaches and their causes to treat them accordingly.
Also Read : Home Remedies For Headache - How To Get Relief Fast
Different Types Of Headache
Before headache treatment, it is important to know what type of headache you have. Depending on the type and severity of the headache, there may be multiple natural remedies to relieve the pain. These are the most common types:
1. Tension Headache
Tension headaches are caused by overstressing, particularly when the head muscles become tense. This is the most common type. It is located in the middle and top areas of the head.
2. Cluster Headache
Cluster headaches can affect anyone at any time. It is characterized by a sharp, stabbing headache, particularly on any one side of the head
3. Migraine
The first sign of migraines is acute pain behind your eyes. As the pain worsens, you become more sensitive to light, activity, and any type of movement.
Also Read : 10 Effective Essential Oils For Migraines and Headaches
4. Sinus Headache
You might experience pain behind your eyes or in your nose if you have a sinus headache. You may experience congestion in the head.
When you know which type of headache you are suffering from, headache treatment becomes easy.
What Are The Main Causes Of Headache?
Headaches can be caused by chemical activity in the brain, blood vessels, nerves surrounding the skull, and head and neck muscles. Those with certain genetic conditions may experience these headaches more often.
Certain lifestyle factors can also trigger headaches, such as
- Alcohol consumption
- Lack of sleep
- Stress, tension, and anxiety
- Skipping meals
- Poor posture
- Processed food that contains nitrates
Headaches that are triggered due to lifestyle changes are known as primary headaches, whereas headaches due to certain medical conditions (high BP, Sinusitis, Covid-19) come under secondary headaches.
Best Home Remedies For Headache
These are some home remedies that can help with headache treatment:
1. Peppermint Oil
The most common cause of headaches is clogged blood vessels. The main ingredient in peppermint is menthol, which helps open up the clogged vessels by regulating blood flow. Take one tablespoon of carrier oil (almond oil or coconut oil) to this add a few drops of peppermint oil. Mix well and apply on your temples and neck. Massage for a few minutes; this will provide relief from headaches.
Application of peppermint oil is considered an instant home remedy for headaches.
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2. Lavender Oil
While lavender is well known for its refreshing scent, it is also effective in treating headaches. Add a few drops of lavender oil to a tissue or handkerchief and whiff it; this helps to alleviate headaches. You can also mix two to three drops of oil with one tablespoon of olive oil or almond oil and rub it onto your forehead.
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3. Ginger Tea
One of the best remedies for headaches is ginger. Ginger is a natural remedy for headaches. Or you can use ginger in your morning and evening tea.
Alternatively, a refreshing drink can be made by combining equal amounts of lemon juice with ginger juice and adding this mixture to lukewarm water.
4. Cinnamon
Another spice that can help with headaches is cinnamon. Take cinnamon powder and mix it with water to make a smooth paste. Apply on your forehead and massage for 2 minutes. After 30 minutes, you can wash the paste.
5. Cloves
Cloves can relieve pain. Take two drops of clove oil and a tablespoon of coconut oil, mix well and massage this oil on your forehead.
6. Basil
Strongly scented basil has analgesic properties. Its oil is effective against tension headaches and tight muscles. Boil three to four fresh basil leaves with a teaspoon of honey to relieve headaches.
7. Practice Meditation
Experts suggest doing the Bhramari pranayama every day for treating chronic headaches. This particular pranayama is beneficial in relaxing the strained nerves around the brain and forehead area, which help to reduce stress, tension, and headache.
Also Read : Meditation: A workout for the brain
8. Stay Hydrated
It is very important to stay hydrated to fight headaches. Sometimes headaches occur when your body is dehydrated. Dehydration causes the brain to shrink due to fluid loss, pulling it away from the skull, leading to severe headaches.
9. Get Proper Sleep
An average adult should get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every day. This allows the body to unwind and relax. Insufficient sleep can lead to headaches as you may feel stressed out due to a lack of oxygen supply to the brain. Good sleep is considered to be an instant home remedy for headaches.
10. Warm Compress
Sometimes, a warm compress may help relax the muscles and relieve the pain, in case of a tension headache
People suffering from headaches have been using these home remedies for years. While medicines can be prescribed for severe pain, home remedies for migraine headaches are more effective and have fewer side effects.
If the headache persists after using these home remedies, you should consult your doctor. Your headache could be a symptom of another health issue. Consult your doctor immediately, if your headache keeps getting worse.
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