The Health Wonders of Herbs Against Headache

Getting a headache is very common, although most of them are caused by stress and fatigue and are relieved with rest. However, a simple headache may become more bothersome and it may take longer to subside. Whenever the headache becomes more intense, pulsating or throbbing, you might have more than a headache. It could be a migraine that can become disabling when not treated immediately. About 90% of the world population may experience migraine and some form of a headache. While there are many medications available for treatment, using the traditional approach remains popular and effective. There are natural remedies for headache, such herbs and they can do some miracles in relieving headache without the need of buying costly medicines or worrying about side effects.

Butterbur

This herb is known to be effective against migraine, as published by the Headache Journal. It is a natural cure for episodes of migraine with the ability to prevent the swelling of the blood vessels and relieving the pressure that causes the intense throbbing pain. The plant extract of butterbur is taken as a supplement in the form of a capsule or a tablet. It is always best to consult your doctor before taking the herb as it might interact with the other medications you are taking, if there is any.

Willow

The herb can produce similar effects as aspirin. Its extracts are known to provide significant relief against tension headache. The willow bark contains salicin, which has an anti-inflammatory property that plays an important role in reducing headache. The research of the University of Maryland Medical Center showed that willow bark is an effective herb in headache management without causing any gastrointestinal side effects that other herbs and aspirin sometimes produce.

Peppermint

Peppermint is an herb that is widely used in making essential oils with medicinal value. The menthol content in the herb is effective in controlling headache and migraine pain, while managing the symptoms of nausea that typically accompany bouts of headache. Peppermint is more commonly used in topical form, rubbing it on the temple.

Ginger

One of the popular herbal remedies for headache is ginger, which is known to be effective in treating tension headaches, including other pains that are associated with headache. It has an anti-inflammatory property that works effectively in reducing the pain and tension caused by headache and migraine. It also has an anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial components that make it a flexible herb for treating other conditions at the same time. Ginger can improve the blood flow to the brain, allowing more oxygen to become available, thereby relieving the headache and promoting mental alertness. Ginger powder is usually made available in capsules or tablets and is likened to sumatriptan, which is a medication for migraine, but with less side effects. Ginger, however, can adversely interact with blood thinners, so it is safer to talk to your doctor about your plan of taking the herb for headache.

Caffeine

Caffeine is found to be more effective when combined with 1000 mg of paracetamol in producing better relief from headache, as reported by the Journal of Headache and Pain. Although more studies are required to get a better perspective about how caffeine can relieve headache, many migraine sufferers reported positive effects. It is worth noting about the danger of caffeine withdrawal syndrome, and it in itself can also trigger the symptoms of headache. Taking caffeine in moderated amount is, however, safe.

Feverfew

This herb is more valuable as a prophylactic measure against headache. It can help relieve headache by reducing its frequency. Some reported their headache never recur.

References:

1. 30 Seconds Miracle Against Headache
2. WebMD
3. Healthline