Headaches happen and they suck, but below are six natural headache remedies we’ve used to hack our own brain pain. While they each offer some relief alone, used together, these chemical-free headache busters will do just that: get rid of the damn thing so you can feel like a human again. Trust us, we’ve learned how well they work the hard way…
6 Natural Headache Remedies That Actually Work
Drink Water. Like, tons of it. And if you think you’ve had enough, definitely keep drinking. Hydration is key to halting a headache. It doesn’t matter what kind of water you drink, as long as you do. Load up with regular, bubbly mineral, hydrating aloe water or even a customized fruit and herb infusion.
Drop Some Magnesium. Research shows that people with migraines often have low levels of magnesium, and the case may be the same when it comes to more casual headaches as well. Taking a dose of magnesium during a headache (or regularly if you have them often) helps with blood flow in the brain and soothes fiery nerves. Bananas, legumes, avocado and dark leafy greens are all naturally rich in magnesium, but for quick absorption and fast results, get a liquid supplement and drop some into the water you’re already downing.
Dap Peppermint Essential Oil. Essential oils can be powerfully healing. Add some peppermint oil onto your temples and pulse points for instant cooling that causes tense muscles to relax. Peppermint stimulates blood flow, which reduces the sensation of pain. The scent itself also has a relaxing yet energizing effect that’ll help propel you over the hurdle of a headache.
Get A Dose Of Vitamin B. Getting a little extra vitamin B, which is essential for nerve health, can reduce the intensity of headache pain. Specifically, B-2 (or riboflavin), B-6 and B-12 are known to help chill out our pain receptors while relaxing strained blood vessels and tense skeletal muscles. A sublingual dose should do the trick, but for those really serious headaches, consider an injection or IV.
Sip Ginger Tea. Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a powerful natural solution for reducing headache pain, especially the kinds that stem from muscle tension or stress. Combine freshly grated ginger root with clarifying lemon juice, soothing raw honey and hot water for a calming natural “tea” that offers instant relief and extra hydration.
Caffeinate Strategically. While caffeine is a diuretic and can be counterproductive to all your water guzzling efforts, sometimes headaches happen as a result of just that: dehydration and/or caffeine withdrawal from our daily habit. A cup of anti-inflammatory matcha or a single shot of espresso can give you a boost to power through the pain while also offering physiological relief from it. Just be sure not to over do it, as too much will cause a worse headache. Have ONE cup and be sure to drink plenty of water after.
Do you suffer from headaches? What do you do for them? Share your solutions in the comments below!
The Chalkboard Mag and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health related program.
