Headaches can plague us all from time to time and instead of taking over the counter painkillers try one of these natural remedies.
1. Water
Water is the first place to start as many headaches are due to dehydration.
2. A Cold or Hot Compress
Depending on what works best for you cold or hot may be the right course of action. Cold if swelling is involved. Hot for if it is a tension heacache. Regardless of the temperature you go with try applying, to the neck and/or forehead.
3. Hot shower
Similar to a hot compress direct the heat to the back of the head or whole face while gently rolling your neck.
4. Turn down the lights
Over exposure to bright lights can be the source whether from office lights, smartphone, or computer.
5. Exercise
Getting the blood flowing and the release of endorphins may just be the jumpstart your head needs to lose that aching feeling.
6. Herbal Tea
Ginger, peppermint, lavender are all ingredients that in addition to water have been shown to be helpful in clearing migraines and headaches in general.
7. Sleep
Nothing like a good nap or good night sleep. Actually too much sleep could also be the issue, if you consistently sleep more than 9 hours try to keep it in between 7-9.
8. Allergies
Some people develop late onset allergies and intolerances to food, pets, and nature. If other options don’t do the trick consider getting tested for allergies and/or intolerances.
9. Acupuncture
Research shows that acupuncture relieves migraines and tension headaches, or at a minimum reduces their frequency.
10. Remove Physical Tensions
Is your hair in a ponytail, are you wearing a hat? Try removing physical items or disturbances around your head and neck.
11. Massage
Massaging out muscles in and around your head and neck can go along way in getting you the relief you need.
12. Caffeine
Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages have been shown to relax blood vessels throughout the body, which promotes healthy circulation, a core need in reducing headaches.
13. Essential Oils
Various essential oils have been shown to alleviate headaches in as little as fifteen minutes. Those oils include: peppermint, rosemary, lavender, eucalyptus, chamomile, and ginger.
14. Magnesium
Studies show that in those that have cluster headaches or migraines, the individuals have had low magnesium levels.
15. Vitamins
Vitamin B (B6 and B12) and Vitamin E have shown significant aid to alleviation of headaches. Vitamin E is especially good for women.
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