People are usually used to thinking of a headache as a health problem. But usually, the headache is just the symptom of a bigger, underlying health problem. So, rather than just masking the headache with pain relievers, you may want to try treating the underlying issues that contribute to headaches. You can do that with some of these simple, holistic treatments.
Drink more water.
Headaches are often caused or made worse by dehydration. Drinking more water is an easy way to not only ward off a current headache but also prevent additional headaches. If you have trouble remembering to drink water, consider buying a bottle that is labeled with time markers. Make sure you drink down to the 10 am marker by 10 am, the 12 pm marker by 12 pm, and so forth.
Apply peppermint oil to your neck and temples.
Many headaches are caused by tension and inflammation in your neck and across your forehead. This tension can be brought on by stress or by the way you stare at your computer screen all day. Peppermint oil can help ease the inflammation and tightness in these areas, which can help fight your headaches. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with an equal portion of almond oil. Then, rub the mixed oils onto your neck and temples. As an added bonus, you'll smell nice!
Take a magnesium supplement.
So many people do not get enough magnesium in their diets. This mineral plays a role in muscle contractions, and a deficiency can lead to both tense muscles and inflammation, both of which can cause headaches or make them worse. Taking a magnesium supplement can really help. Just make sure you ease your way into it to prevent the most common side effect of magnesium supplements, which is loose stools. Take a low dose for a few days before gradually increasing your dose.
Have an acupuncture session.
Schedule a session or two at your local acupuncturist. Acupuncture can help ease tension and stress throughout the body and mind, and this, in turn, can ease headaches. Don't worry — you'll barely feel the needles going into your skin, so the pain is nothing to worry about. If you feel better after one acupuncture session, you may want to start going once a month.
Headaches can really get in your way, but these holistic remedies should help you better manage them. Feel free to mix and match these remedies as you see fit.
