Which Essential Oils Are Good For Headaches?
Headaches are one of the most common health complaints across most all cultures. There are several main types of headaches. And for those looking for natural pain relief for their headaches, essential oils might be the solution. Which essential oils are good for headaches?
Several essential oils have been shown to be effective at treating the symptoms of various types of headaches. The essential oils that are good for headaches are:
- Rosemary Essential Oil
- Lavender Essential Oil
- Peppermint Essential Oil
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Headaches: A World-Wide Problem
According to the World Health Organization (WHO):
Despite regional variations, headache disorders are a worldwide problem, affecting people of all ages, races, income levels and geographical areas.
WHO goes on to say that with approximately 50% to 75% of the adults in the entire world having at least one headache in the past year, and up to 30% of those report as migraine, headaches are, by far, the most common nervous system health complaint in the world.
Before we take a look at some natural ways to alleviate the pain of your headache, lets first get a better understanding of the various types of headaches, a few of their causes, and unique symptoms.
Migraines
- Migraines can be hereditary.
- For most sufferers, the onset of first migraine often occurs during puberty, gaining momentum which peaks in the decade of age 35 to 45 years, then slowing reducing over time.
- Due to a hormonal factor affecting migraines, women have migraines much more often (about twice as much) than men.
- While the exact mechanism of migraine onset is known, they are believed to be activated extremely deep in the brain, where highly inflammatory substances affect blood vessels and nerves.
- Migraines are usually very intense, affect just one side of the head, cause a deep, pulsating throb, and can lead to light sensitivity and nausea.
- It is not uncommon for a single migraine to last for 2-3 days.
Tension headaches
- Tension headaches are the most common types of headache.
- In western society, tension headaches are reported at a rate of up to 70% of the adult population.
- Tension headaches are usually associated with stress or in the presence of issues related to the neck area.
- Sufferers of tension headaches report a band of tightness around the head.
Cluster Headaches
- Cluster headaches are characterized by frequent, brief, severe headaches. Chronic sufferers report several clusters per day.
- Cluster headaches are the only headache type occurring more frequently in men than women.
- Cluster headaches commonly present with pain in or around one eye.
- Symptoms sometimes mimic cold or allergy symptoms (redness of the eyes, watery eye, runny nose or nasal congestion).
- Occasionally, the musculature of the eyelid area is weakened and the eyelid might droop.
Other Types of Headaches
The above types of headaches are the most common, and most debilitating, which is why we went into some detail about them. But we also recognize that other types of headaches (such as sinus, medication over-use, hangovers, etc.) can be just as painful for those suffering from them. Regardless of the type(s) of headache(s) you suffer from, we think regular use of certain essential oils can help alleviate many headache symptoms.
Essential Oils: A Mother Nature Approved Treatment for Headaches!
Essential oils have been used to treat countless ailments around the world for thousands of years. Headaches are no different. The essences of several plants have long been known to treat many headache symptoms.
Here are the top 4 essential oils that you can use to treat most types of headaches
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Rosemary Essential Oil
This powerful plant is one of the best essential oils for reducing all sorts of headaches. Rosemary improves blood circulation and has anti-inflammatory properties, which is good for decreasing pain. Rosemary essential oil is known to have calming effects, so it is very effective at easing many types of tension that you might be suffering from.
People who report more headaches in relation to emotionally charged events have reported feeling better and more relaxed after using Rosemary essential oil. Just dab a couple of drop on your wrists and the sides of your neck and take few deep breaths. Do not inhale rosemary essential oil directly from the bottle.
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Lavender Essential Oil
If you suffer from headaches, lavender is the one essential oil that you should have with you at all times. Firstly, the smell itself will transport you to a joyful place and decrease any anxieties that are causing you to have a headache.
Secondly, it works as a sedative so if your headaches are resulting from sleepless nights, then you are in luck because you won’t be counting sheep anymore. It’s mild, yet powerful calming effect can help you get the rest you need so your body can fight off that headache. Just put 4-6 drops of lavender essential oil on your pillow before going to bed. Or diffuse lavender for an hour or so before bedtime.
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Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint is truly a hero to many headache sufferers, particularly those who suffer from migraines. This minty oil has so many benefits that you might want to get 2-3 bottles just because you will be using it a lot!
Peppermint is great for so many things that it’s no surprise that headaches are among the list of ailments helped by this intoxicatingly minty oil! The smell is sharp and is very stimulating to the senses, so use sparingly.
Peppermint essential oil is best for people who are suffering from migraines and tension headaches and can be massaged on the forehead. Just make sure not to use more than 4-5 drops. Also, some people report a slight burning sensation when peppermint oil is applied topically, so it might be safest to dilute it in a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, before applying to the skin.
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Eucalyptus Essential Oil
This powerful and antibacterial essential oil helps in removing toxins in the body. It opens the nasal passage, thus eradicating sinus headaches. It is refreshing and uplifts the mood when applied or used in a warm bath. Mix it with a carrier oil and rub it on your wrists, temples, chest, forehead and the sides of the neck.
Summary of Essential Oils that are Good for Headaches
With these 4 essential oils in your arsenal, before long, your headaches won’t stand a chance. We recommend experimenting by blending various combinations of the 4 oils and diffusing them throughout the day in your home, office, car etc. Or, as mentioned with some of the oils, they can also be applied topically.
Speaking of topical application, a word of caution: Everyone reacts differently to essential oils. And, because they are highly concentrated, some people’s skin might not like direct application. So, if you plan to apply any essential oils topically, we recommend testing on a small patch of skin. If you do find that you are sensitive to one or more oils, diluting in a carrier oil usually does the trick.
In closing, we hope that you find one or more essential oils that help you with your headaches.
