How to Treat Migraine? Natural Treatment for Headaches

What is Headache?

That piercing pain you get between your temples, or what is commonly known as a headache, can ruin your day and your mood. And although you may suffer in silence while you're waiting for your migraine to pass, know that headaches are a very common problem with half of the global adult population experiencing a headache at least once every year.

Many headache sufferers rely on prescription medication to dull the pain, but alternative therapies are becoming more popular with those who favour natural treatments. Keep reading to discover the causes of your headaches, learn how to treat headache and what you can do to prevent the pain.

Symptoms of Headaches

The symptom common to all headaches, regardless of type or cause, is a pulsating or throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. But in addition to pain, there are other symptoms sufferers can experience that may seem to have nothing to do with the head.

Headaches can also cause the neck to feel tight or sore, and sufferers may experience tingling in the arms and legs. Headaches can even affect digestion by causing abdominal pain and heartburn. The thought of food may disgust sufferers since headaches can also cause nausea. And many migraine sufferers vomit during the peak of their attacks.

Causes of Headaches

There are many causes that contribute to experiencing a headache, and each person may have a different collection of factors that are contributing to their chronic cognitive pain. Some people's migraines are triggered by certain foods like aged cheese and alcohol, or common food additives like aspartame and MSG.

In addition, having a family history of headaches can make one more susceptible to developing them. Also, age and sex can make one more likely to experience chronic migraines. Migraines tend to be the most severe in people's thirties, and women are three times more likely to experience migraines than men.

Lifestyle factors including stress, excess physical activity, and lack of sleep can also contribute to headaches. While environmental factors such as a change in temperature or pressure can induce migraines in certain sensitive people. Headaches can also be the side effect of having an illness or disease including meningitis, fibromyalgia, and lyme disease.

Types of Headaches

There are two main types of headaches: primary and secondary. Primary headaches means that the headache is the core medical concern, although factors like food and stress can play a role. Conversely, secondary headaches are caused by an underlying medical condition such as a neck injury or sinus infection.

Primary Headaches

There are three main types of primary headaches:

• Migraine: A migraine is an extremely painful headache that can also be accompanied by other symptoms including vision loss, tingling in the extremities, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Those with a migraine can suffer for hours or even days.
• Tension: Tension headaches are the most commonly experienced form of headache. Pain can range from mild to intense, and will usually occur in the head, neck, and behind the eyes. Tension headaches can be a one-time occurrence or they can be chronic, especially if the sufferer is continually exposed to certain environmental triggers like food or weather changes.
• Cluster: A cluster headache can be characterized as extremely painful and where the pain is usually localized to one side of the head. These types of headaches are usually short-lived and often occur at the same time every year.

Secondary Headaches

Secondary headaches are often a side effect of an underlying condition. The types of secondary headaches include:

• Sinus Headache: Once the sinus infection is cleared with antibiotics, the headache should be eliminated.
• Ear Infection Headaches: A headache with a stiff neck can be the side effect of complications from an ear infection.
• Hangover Headaches: Dehydration and the byproduct of alcohol metabolism can cause splitting headaches the morning after a night of alcohol indulgence.
• High Blood Pressure Headaches: Very high blood pressure can cause headaches and vision problems.
• Illness-Induced Headaches: Headaches can be a side effect of an underlying illness such as meningitis, Lyme disease, fibromyalgia etc.
• Trauma-Induced Headache: Headaches are one of the most common side effects after experiencing a traumatic event to the head, like a concussion.
• Medication Overuse Headache: Abusing prescription medications such as Vicodin or Fioricet can induce headaches. Once the medication is stopped, the headaches will end as well.

Risks and Complications

The consequences of severe migraines go beyond a day of lost productivity after spending all day in bed with the blinds drawn. In fact, the risks of experiencing severe migraines can even lead to stroke, epileptic seizures (migralepsy), or a migraine so painful that sufferers require hospitalization. Also, some people suffer from migraine auras that can last days or even weeks.

Understandably, chronic and debilitating migraines can also cause mental health issues for some people including depression, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Other complications include motion sickness, sleepwalking, night terrors, teeth grinding, vertigo, and cyclical vomiting.

Prognosis for Headache Treatment

About 90 percent of chronic headache patients can be helped with proper natural treatment for headache.

How to Treat Headache?

How to treat headache? If sufferers want to experience relief from their chronic headaches or avoid the complications that can come with experiencing severe headaches, it's important to take a proactive approach by using the correct medication, alternative therapies, and preventative techniques that are most suitable for each individual's condition.

Medication for Headaches

Medications can be used to immediately relieve the pain and symptoms associated with a headache.

• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers including aspirin, Advil, Motrin, and Aleve are often the first line of defense for reducing pain.
• Prescription Medications: If your headaches are particularly intense, your doctor may also write you a prescription for a more potent medication such as Naprosyn, Indocin, or Ketorolac Tromethamine.

Remember, it's important to not abuse pain relief medication. Prescription medication overuse can cause rebound headaches, which can be characterized as a dull and constant headache that can feel worse in the mornings.

Alternative Headache Treatments

Although they can provide relief from pain and are free of the side effects that come with taking medication, alternative therapies are not guaranteed to help. Some forms of alternative therapy that have a history of being used to prevent and treat headaches include:

• Acupuncture: Acupuncture's regulation of 'qi' (vital energy) has been linked with the release of endorphins, which reduce pain.
• Osteopathy: Osteopathy uses techniques that allow for relief of tension and blockages in the body that can contribute to headaches.
• Chiropractic: Manipulating the spine can effectively treat cervicogenic and tension headaches.
• Hypnosis: Hypnosis has been used to treat a variety of headache types.

Natural Treatment for Headaches

There are also a number of safe, non-addictive, and natural products that can be used for natural treatment for headache. They will relieve tension and reduce pain associated with headaches:

• Magnesium: People who experience headaches often have low levels of magnesium. By taking 200-600mg of magnesium a day, sufferers can reduce the number and severity of the headaches they experience.
• Peppermint Oil:Applied topically to the source of pain, peppermint oil has cooling properties that increase the flow of blood to the forehead and reduce muscle contractions.
• Feverfew: This herb relieves tension and reduces the frequency of migraines and the severity of symptoms including pain, sensitivity to light and noise, and nausea.

An Overiew of Treatment Options for Headache

Headaches are among the most common health complaints, affecting people of all ages. The choice of treatment depends on the type, intensity, and underlying cause of the headache. Approaches include both conventional medical therapies and natural remedies. Each has its benefits and limitations, and many individuals find relief through a combination of both.

Conventional Medical Treatments

Conventional treatments typically focus on reducing pain and preventing recurrence. Over-the-counter medications are the first choice for many. 

• Analgesics such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen are commonly used to relieve mild to moderate headaches. These medications are effective but can cause side effects when used excessively, such as stomach irritation or rebound headaches.
• For chronic or severe conditions like migraines, physicians may prescribe stronger medications. Triptans are often prescribed for migraines as they work on serotonin receptors to relieve pain and associated symptoms. In cases of tension headaches, muscle relaxants or low-dose antidepressants may be considered. While effective, these options often require medical supervision due to possible side effects.
• Lifestyle adjustments are also part of conventional care. Physicians may recommend stress management techniques, improved sleep habits, hydration, and regular exercise as non-drug options to reduce headache frequency. Identifying and avoiding triggers, such as certain foods, caffeine overuse, or lack of sleep, plays a significant role in long-term management.

Natural Remedies and Products

Many people seek natural treatments for headache due to concerns about medication side effects or a preference for holistic care. Natural remedies can be used on their own or as a complement to conventional treatments.

• Simple home practices often provide relief. Applying a cold compress to the forehead or the back of the neck can reduce tension and ease pain. A warm compress may help relax tight muscles that contribute to headaches. Practicing relaxation methods such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help manage stress-related headaches.
• Hydration is another key factor. Dehydration is a common cause of headaches, so drinking enough water throughout the day is an easy and effective preventive step. Adequate rest, a balanced diet, and limiting screen time also contribute to better headache control.
• In addition to lifestyle and home practices, many turn to natural products available in the form of supplements or herbal preparations. These products aim to support the body's balance and reduce the frequency or intensity of headaches. They are widely available and often used as a safer long-term solution compared to frequent use of pharmaceuticals.

Together, both medical treatments and natural approaches create a broad spectrum of options, allowing individuals to choose what best suits their needs and health goals.

Natural Products for Headache Relief

Natural products are increasingly used as safe and supportive methods for managing headaches. These remedies focus on easing pain, reducing stress, and improving overall balance in the body without the risks often linked to long-term medication use. They are available in different forms, making them suitable for daily use or as-needed relief.

• Herbal Supplements: Herbal supplements are widely used to manage headache symptoms. These products are formulated from plants known for their calming, soothing, or circulatory benefits. They may be taken regularly to reduce the frequency of headaches or used when symptoms begin. Many individuals find them effective for tension-type headaches and migraines.
• Essential Oils: Aromatherapy using essential oils is a common natural practice for headache relief. Oils can be inhaled, applied topically with carrier oils, or used in diffusers. Their calming aromas and soothing properties often help reduce stress, ease tension, and create a sense of relaxation that can lessen headache discomfort.
• Nutritional Supplements: Nutritional supplements aim to fill dietary gaps that might contribute to frequent headaches. A balanced intake of certain vitamins and minerals supports proper nerve and muscle function, which can play a role in headache prevention. These supplements are often taken daily as part of a broader wellness routine.
• Herbal Teas and Natural Beverages: Herbal teas and infusions are simple yet effective options. Warm herbal drinks can promote relaxation, reduce muscle tightness, and support hydration, which is essential for headache prevention. Natural beverages are an easy way to integrate relief strategies into daily life.
• Topical Creams and Balms: Some natural products come in the form of balms, creams, or roll-ons. When applied to the temples, forehead, or neck, they provide a soothing sensation and help reduce tension. These products are convenient, portable, and can offer quick relief in stressful or busy environments.

How Natural Products Work for Headache Relief

Natural products support headache relief by targeting common triggers such as stress, muscle tension, poor circulation, and dehydration. Unlike pharmaceuticals that often block pain signals, natural approaches aim to restore balance in the body and promote overall well-being. Their mechanisms are gentle yet effective, making them suitable for long-term use.

Promoting Relaxation and Stress Reduction

One of the leading causes of headaches is stress. Natural products such as essential oils, herbal teas, and calming supplements help the body relax. Their soothing effects encourage the release of tension in the muscles and calm the nervous system. This reduces the likelihood of stress-induced headaches and can lessen their severity when they occur.

Supporting Circulation and Oxygen Flow

Many headaches are linked to poor blood flow or restricted circulation. Natural remedies such as certain herbs and topical balms encourage better circulation. By supporting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the brain and surrounding tissues, these products help ease pain and reduce discomfort associated with restricted blood vessels.

Maintaining Hydration and Balance

Dehydration is a frequent cause of headaches. Natural products, particularly herbal teas and hydrating beverages, assist in maintaining fluid balance in the body. Improved hydration keeps cells functioning properly and reduces the risk of headaches caused by fluid loss.

Encouraging Healthy Sleep and Recovery

Insufficient or poor-quality sleep can trigger frequent headaches. Natural remedies promote deeper, more restful sleep by calming the mind and body. Restorative sleep allows the body to recover, reduces fatigue, and lowers the chance of morning headaches.

Providing Gentle Long-Term Support

Unlike strong medications that may cause side effects with continuous use, natural products are often mild and safe for daily use. They provide ongoing support for reducing headache frequency, improving resilience against triggers, and enhancing overall wellness without overburdening the body.

Common Ingredients in Natural Products for Headache Relief

Natural products for headache relief often include a variety of ingredients that work together to ease pain, reduce stress, and support overall balance. These ingredients are found in herbal supplements, teas, essential oils, and topical applications. Below are some of the most commonly used ingredients in natural remedies for headaches.

Herbal Ingredients

• Feverfew - Traditionally used to help manage migraine frequency.
• Butterbur - Known for its role in supporting circulation and reducing tension.
• Willow bark - Often called nature's aspirin, used for pain-relieving properties.
• Chamomile - Provides calming effects and supports relaxation.
• Peppermint - Applied in oils or teas to ease muscle tension and discomfort.

Essential Oils

• Lavender oil - Promotes relaxation and reduces stress-related headaches.
• Peppermint oil - Applied topically to create a cooling effect that relieves pain.
• Eucalyptus oil - Helps open airways and can reduce sinus-related headaches.
• Rosemary oil - Supports circulation and reduces mental fatigue.

Nutritional Supplements

• Magnesium - Often used to prevent migraine attacks.
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) - Supports energy production and may reduce headache frequency.
• Coenzyme Q10 - Helps improve cellular energy and decrease occurrence of migraines.

Other Natural Options

• Ginger - Widely used for its soothing effects and role in easing nausea linked to headaches.
• Turmeric - Contains natural compounds that support balance and comfort.
• Caffeine (in small amounts) - Can enhance the effects of other headache remedies.

How to Prevent Headaches?

There are a number of lifestyle changes you can incorporate to prevent headaches from happening in the first place. First, focus on reducing your stress levels as many tension headaches are a consequences of tension in the shoulders and neck. Try taking up a relaxing hobby like walking, yoga, or meditation.

Also, consider adopting a healthier diet. Cut out alcohol and smoking, which can contribute to headaches, and drink more water since dehydration can cause headaches as well. In addition, consider trying an elimination diet if you believe that certain foods or food additives are triggering your headaches.

Finally, it's important to get enough sleep. 7-9 hours every night is recommended to ward off the risks of sleep deprivation. And make sure you're practicing good posture. If you're always sitting hunched over a desk or craning your neck you could be putting too much strain on your muscles, which can cause a tension headache.