A headache can simply be defined as “a pain in the head.” Actually, pains anywhere in the head, along the neck, behind the eyes and at the temples can be considered “headaches.” There are a number of over-the-counter products you can buy to relieve the pain. Or, you can try some homemade treatments for the common headache.
Since headaches are an ailment that affects millions of people every day, it’s not surprising that there are more than 240 types of them. Different types of headaches respond to different types of homemade treatments. Tension headaches, for example, can often be relieved by soaking in a tub full of hot water. Or, you can try placing a cold compress over your forehead and eyes until the pain lets up.
You can also try massaging your temples, neck and shoulders to help ease the pain of a tension headache. Above all, relax and gently stretch your body. Sitting in the same position for a long period of time- especially if you’re leaned over a desk or computer keyboard- can cause a tension headache to occur.
Another homemade treatment for the common tension headache is to slowly rotate your head in a clockwise direction three times. Then, reverse the direction and rotate your head slowly the other way. Place your arms down to your sides and raise your shoulders up. Hold that stance for the count of five; do this exercise five times.
Sometimes performing simple exercises and breathing deeply can help relieve the pain and discomfort of a common headache too. The next time a headache strikes, try taking a fifteen minute walk in the fresh air.
Common headaches also respond to aromatherapy. Scents such as Lavender, Chamomile and Rose are relaxing, and can be used to relieve the pain of a tension headache. These oils can either be sniffed or gently rubbed on the affected area. (i.e., the temples, neck, forehead and shoulders. Keep herbal oils out of your eyes and nose.)
Other herbal oils such as Peppermint and Rosemary can also be sniffed or massaged on the headache area to bring relief.
If your headache is caused by nasal congestion, a homemade treatment I have used is to massage some Peppermint or Spearmint oil on your forehead, especially at the top of your nose.
Note: You don’t need a lot of oil to relieve the pain of a headache. Use only a drop or two of herbal oils for these homemade treatments.
Some experts recommend reducing or cutting out your intake of caffeinated drinks and chocolate to avoid getting common headaches. If this works for you, fine. But did you know that popular pain relievers such as Excedrin™ contain caffeine? Caffeine constricts the blood vessels in your body. If you have a headache because of tiredness, caffeine can actually help you feel better.
Herbal teas can also do wonders as homemade treatments for the common headache. When you feel a headache coming on, instead of reaching for one of those over-the-counter pain relievers, why not pour yourself a cup of tea? Peppermint, Spearmint, Rosemary and Ginger are just a few of the most popular teas that will quiet your pounding headache.
And finally, you probably realize how important it is to keep your body properly hydrated. But did you know that dehydration can cause you to have a common headache? It’s true! Dehydration causes muscles to tense up. Drink six to eight glasses of water each day to help keep the headaches away.
