Natural Headache Remedies

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One of the most common health complaints people have is a headache. Headaches are caused by a number of things, including the flu, sinus problems and allergies, but you don’t necessarily have to be sick to get one. Environmental factors can cause them, along with stress, caffeine withdrawal and a variety of other triggers. Most people will report occasionally getting a headache, but for many people they are a chronic problem, and for sufferers of migraine headaches, they can be virulent and debilitating. 

There are a number of common sense items when it comes headache relief. These can include dietary changes; getting rid of nitrates, nitrites and MSG can all be helpful in preventing headaches. Other foods can be headache triggers for some, so keep track of what you eat and eliminate foods that you suspect might be causing your headaches. The Phase One Diet may be a good place to start when it comes to making dietary changes. Any foods on the diet that may trigger a headache can easily be eliminated as well. 

Exercise, including aerobics and yoga, has been shown to be useful in the prevention of headaches as well. Stretching has also been shown to aid towards this end. And for some, taking quiet time, time to pray or time to meditate can be helpful in the easing or prevention of headaches. 

A number of medicines are available for those who suffer from headaches, ranging from prescription medications to simple over-the-counter aspirin. But are there natural headache remedies or headache home remedies available for those who suffer from headaches? 

There are a number of natural headache remedies that may aid in the relief of headaches. 

Essential Oils
Essential oils are the fragrant extracts from plants, herbs and spices, and some have shown to be useful in easing or preventing headaches. Lavender oil can be applied topically or inhaled by diluting in boiling water. Peppermint oil can act as a vasodilator, and also has some benefit for tension headaches. Basil oil can work to relax muscles and can be helpful in relieving subsequent tension headaches. 

Massage 
Temple and neck massages have been shown to have some benefit for relieving headache pain. 

Feverfew
This traditional remedy for fever may also aid towards relieving pain from headaches and is likely available at your local health food store. 

Foods high in Omega 3s
Omega 3s reduce inflammation, which may play a role in some headaches. Consuming flax seeds regularly may help some people with headache pain. These foods include flax seeds, walnuts, fish oil and salmon. Some people do have foods that trigger headaches, so be careful to track the foods you suspect might work towards that end.

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