6. Ice Pack
The cold from ice helps reduce inflammation that contributes to headaches. Plus, it has a numbing effect on the pain.
- Applying an ice pack to the back of your neck can give you relief from a migraine headache.
- You can also place a washcloth dipped in ice-cold water over your head for five minutes. Repeat the process several times.
- Alternatively, you can use a bag of frozen vegetables as a cold compress. Within half an hour you will feel some relief.
7. Rosemary
The rosmarinic acid in rosemary oil has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that help treat a headache.
- Simply massage your forehead and temples with a few drops of rosemary oil mixed in a tablespoon of carrier oil.
- Alternatively, make an herbal tea by boiling one teaspoon of crushed rosemary leaves and one teaspoon of crushed sage leaves in a cup of water. Cover it while boiling and then let it steep for 10 minutes. Let the tea cool to room temperature, then drink it. You can have this herbal tea two to three times a day. If both the herbs are not available, you can make the tea with either of the two herbs alone.
Note: Rosemary oil may not be suitable for those suffering from epilepsy or high blood pressure.
8. Cloves
Cloves can be used to ease tension headaches as it has a cooling and pain-relieving properties.
- Crush a few cloves gently and put them in a sachet or a clean handkerchief. Inhale the smell of the crushed cloves whenever you have a headache until you get some relief from the pain.
- Another option is to put two drops of clove oil in a tablespoon of carrier oil and massage your forehead and temples with it.
- You can also mix together two teaspoons of coconut oil, one teaspoon of sea salt and two drops of clove oil and rub this mixture gently on your forehead.
9. Apples
Both apples and apple cider vinegar have attributes that can balance the acid and alkaline levels in the body, giving you relief from headaches.
- Simply eat an apple with some salt.
- You can also add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a full glass of water and drink it.
10. Acupressure
The Joining the Valley (L 14) acupressure point is considered effective for relieving headaches.
Press and massage the fleshy area between the thumb and index finger, at the highest spot of the muscle when both the thumb and finger are brought close together. Do this for one or two minutes and then repeat on the other hand.
Note: Do not press this acupressure point during pregnancy.
Next time you have a headache, try these natural treatments for fast relief. However, if you have severe and frequent headaches, consult a doctor.
Comments