In today's high-stress world, most of us experience headaches on a regular basis, and need to find relief. But there is good reason to avoid excessive use of commercial headache remedies. Aspirin can cause stomach upset and even bleeding in extreme cases. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage and overuse of Ibuprofen can cause dependency or kidney problems. While these reactions are unusual, why not be cautious?
Herbal remedies can be a safe and gentle alternative if you're careful to distinguish fact from fancy. Many herbal medicine guides rely on folklore and old wives tales that may be worthless at best and harmful at worst. Consult scientific sources such as PDR for Herbal Medicine and you'll get clinically tested answers to your herbal medicine questions. Always proceed cautiously until you've judged the herb's effect on your body, and be certain to identify your herbs correctly. Never ingest herbs that have been treated with pesticides, and always consult a physician if symptoms persist.
The search for a remedy begins by identifying the type of headache you have, since not all treatments will work for all headaches. If you are suffering from severe and prolonged headaches or if your headaches are accompanied by double vision or nausea, see a physician immediately. For other headaches, try these remedies:
Herbal Remedies for Tension Headaches:
Tension headaches: these mild headaches are often brought on by tension in the neck muscles. They are aided by any herbal preparation which induces a relaxing effect. Teas made from peppermint or lemon balm may be helpful. PDR for Herbal Medicines lists both of these as having a mild sedative effect. Be sure to plant true peppermint plants grown from cuttings, since seedlings do not breed true and may not contain enough of the active ingredient, menthol, to be effective. Both herbs are easy to grow in sun or partial shade, and are perennial in most climates. Peppermint may need to have its roots contained to keep it from taking over your garden.
Herbal Remedies for Migraine:
Feverfew has been scientifically tested to be effective in treating migraine headache, according to Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs (quoting studies cited in Lancet and the British Medical Journal) . This source recommends a dose of 1-3 leaves. Chop them into a tossed salad to disguise their bitter taste. This pretty, delicate-leaved plant has daisy-like flowers and will grow in sun or partial shade. You may need to pull unwanted seedlings, since it self-sows freely.
Herbal Remedies for Sinus Headaches:
Anything that clears the sinuses may help to alleviate your misery. One herbal remedy worth trying is fresh or dried eucalyptus leaves, steamed and inhaled. Many people swear by this remedy, and it will make your house smell wonderful. Eucalyptus is not hardy in many areas, but you can purchase dried leaves or grow plants in zones 8-10 or in a greenhouse further north. More information on herbal medicine for sinus headaches in available at ezinearticles.com/
