There are many simple things you can do to ease the pain of a headache without a going to the drugstore or doctor. Try these natural remedies and get to feeling better fast.
Natural Headache Painkillers:
1. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a technique of Traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into the skin in order to stimulate specific points on the body.
This practice has been associated to a reduction in headache symptoms in many studies.
A review of 22 studies including more than 4,400 people reported that acupuncture was as effective as the common migraine medications.
While another study reported that acupuncture was more safer and effectivethan topiramate, which is an anticonvulsant drug used in treating chronic migraines.
If you are looking for a natural way in the treatment of chronic headaches, then, acupuncture may be a worthwhile choice.
2. Ginger Tea
Ginger root contains various beneficial compounds, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidants substances.
A study in 100 people with chronic migraines reported that 250 mg of ginger powder was as effective as the conventional headache medication, known as sumatriptan at reducing migraine pain.
Also, ginger helps reduce vomiting and nausea, the common symptoms linked with severe headaches.
You can make a powerful tea with fresh ginger root or take ginger powder in capsule form.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is perfect because it contains high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds, and lots of powerful antioxidants.
The anti-inflammatory elements of turmeric are known as curcuminoids, but the usually talk about is the one called curcumin. Curcumin helps in reducing inflammation all over the body, and in the case of headaches, this may help in relieving their underlying cause to eliminate your pain.
Therefore, say yes to that curry lunch! If you do not like the taste of turmeric, it also comes in the capsule supplement form.
4. Water
The very first thing you should do, when you feel a headache coming on is drink some water. Chronic dehydration is an extremely common cause of headaches. This means that it’s not just about how much water you drank today, but it is about your overall water consumption habits. Also, being dehydrated can cause irritability and distraction, which tends to make your symptoms feel worse.
Drinking water has been reported in studies to relieve dehydration-related headache symptoms within 30 minutes to 3 hours. So, if you are prone to headaches, you may be able to decrease its frequency by staying on a good hydration regimen, while also making sure to consume plenty of water-rich foods such as vegetables and fruits.
5. Caffeine
Caffeine has been known to have a positive effect on headaches, that is why it can be found in many over-the-counter headache medicines. Caffeine can constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing inflammation, improve alertness, and boost your mood, all of which can be helpful in reducing headache pain. Also, this mild stimulant has been reported to improve the effectiveness of Over-The-Counter pain medicines.
As long as you get your caffeine from tea or coffee, rather than energy drinks or sodas that also contain other headache-inducing artificial ingredients, you can use this natural remedy. But, remember that caffeine withdrawal can also cause headaches, and that people develop a tolerance to caffeine when it is used regularly. If you plan to use caffeine for headache relief, it is better to avoid it when you are not suffering.
6. Cloves
Cloves are a spicy and sweet herb that may help a headache whether you eat it or rub it on your sore head. You may be able to find cloves either in powdered, whole, or in tincture form.
Clove not only helps in reducing inflammation, but also contains a pain relieving compound known as eugenol. Eugenol is powerful enough to feature in various Over-The-Counter ointments formulated for pain.
Cloves are great for use in cooking, but, when you are looking for instant relief, you can try rubbing clove oil on your temples. Tread lightly, because a little bit is enough, and too much can burn your skin. It is better for those on blood thinners to avoid clove entirely.
7. Cold Compress
Using a cold compress can help in reducing your headache symptoms.
Applying frozen or cold compresses to your head or neck area slows nerve conduction, decreases inflammation, and constricts blood vessels, all of which help in reduce headache pain.
In a study of 28 women, applying a cold gel pack to the head area, significantly help reduced migraine pain.
How to Apply:
- To make a cold compress, just fill a waterproof bag with ice, then wrap it using a soft towel.
- Apply the compress at the head, back of the neck, or temples for headache relief.
Sources:
Organic Welcome
Healthline
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