Headache
Everyone suffers from a headache sooner or later. Head aches can range from merely annoying to completely debilitating. There are two kinds: primary and secondary. A primary head ache is one where the pain of the ache itself is the main concern, like a migraine. A secondary head ache is when the ache is only a symptom of an underlying problem. An example of a secondary would be one affecting the sinus.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of a head ache is pain in the head. Depending on the type you have, the pain may be located around the eye, on one side of the head, in the back of the head or in the forehead. Secondary symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, a bloody nose, an aura preceding the head ache, and visual disturbances.
Causes
Headaches can be caused by tension, stress, dehydration, low blood sugar, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, depression or anxiety. Some are also triggered by certain foods or caffeine. Some are caused by allergies, exercise, eating cold foods quickly or may be related to other events like menstruation, disease or other problem.
Cautions
It is normal for everyone to get the occasional headache, but if you experience pain along with additional symptoms such as losing your balance or unusual pains in your neck, you should seek the guidance of a medical professional immediately.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Ginkgo biloba – this herb increases circulation to the head, delivering more oxygen. It may be helpful for migraine.
- Feverfew – this herb can reduce the duration and intensity of a head ache if taken at the first sign. It prevents the constriction of blood vessels and inflammation. Some people are allergic to this herb, so discontinue taking if you have a reaction to it. This herb can also be combined with bay for an even more effective herbal remedy.
- Cayenne – this herb is very stimulating and will affect the blood flow to ease the ache.
- Valerian – this herb is sedating and relaxing. Valerian is also an anti-spasm medication. If taken at the first sign of a head ache, it can relax the muscles around the neck, face and back and aid the blood flow to reduce the pain. Other herbs that act in a similar fashion include lemon balm and skullcap.
- Rosemary – this herb is calming and relaxing. It can help relieve anxiety and stress. Other herbs that also help head aches in this relaxing fashion include chamomile and mint. Relief is fairly quick if taken at the first sign of a head ache.
- Ginger – this herb is anti-inflammatory and can help relieve pain. It has been used as a traditional herbal remedy for head aches. Take as capsules according to the directions on the label.
- Marjoram – take this herb to ease muscle tension. If taken when a tension head ache first appears, relief doesn't take long.
- Peppermint – take this herb as an herbal tea for relief of tension head ache.
External Applications
- Peppermint – this herb can also be taken externally for a headache. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with a massage oil and rub into the temples for relief.
- Lavender – apply the essential oil of lavender to your temples and keep a cloth nearby to sniff as needed for relief.
Other essential oil that could be used in a massage include basil, chamomile and geranium.