Headaches can be debilitating, but before you reach for the pill bottle, there are a plethora of natural cures that work every bit as well. Start with the basics by ensuring that you are well hydrated, by stretching out any tension in the neck and back (yoga is perfect here) and by taking a walk.
If these staples don’t budge your headache, head for the kitchen.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is packed with capsaicin which is a wonderful antidote to pain and inflammation. Add a couple of pinches to your tea or coffee, cook up a spicy dish or add it to mayo as a spicy dip.
Lavender and Peppermint Oil
Lavender and peppermint essential oils do a wonderful job of pain relief. Peppermint works to open and close blood vessels to promote healthy blood flow which helps to relieve the pain of migraines and headaches. You can use either of these oils by adding a few drops to a in a bowl of steaming water. Bend your head over the bowl and cover it with a towel. Breathe in the soothing vapors. You can also sprinkle a couple of drops on your pillow to breathe in the soothing scent.
Almonds
If you aren’t allergic to nuts, almonds can be a wonderful way to beat your headache. These little lifesavers contain salicin which helps to ease the pain of headaches.
Feverfew
Headaches can be caused by blood vessels which expand and place pressure on the nerves which results in pain. Feverfew works to constrict blood vessels which relieves the pressure and eases pain. Feverfew contains parthenolide, which works to reduce inflammation as well. You can take feverfew in a tea by steeping 1 ounce of fresh or dried flowers in 1 pint of boiling water.
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is an excellent cure for inflammation, nausea and pain. Make tea by slicing a 4-inch piece of fresh ginger and placing it into a small pot with 2 ¼ cups water. Boil gently for 15 minutes and enjoy with a teaspoon of natural honey.
I make large pots of strong ginger tea which I decant into ice cube trays and freeze. I keep the cubes in a sealable plastic bag in the fridge so I can pop one in a cup of boiling water and have instant relief when I need it.
