Most people experience an occasional headache from time to time. Apart from the self-induced hangover!!!…a lot of the time when someone gets a headache, they are not sure what triggered it off. Studies suggest that the majority of headaches that people experience are due to tension and stress. Sufferers describe it like having a tight rubber band around their head exerting pressure.
Treating the pain of a headache with over the counter medication such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen is an option that many take. However there is also the option of a more natural approach – using essential oils to help with headaches.
A number of essential oils have been shown to be beneficial for headaches. Studies have been conducted to support this. Let’s find out more below which essential oils are good for headaches!
Lavender
Well-known for helping with insomnia and reducing stress and negative feelings, lavender essential oil is one of the top choices to help alleviate headaches. This study here looked into the effectiveness of lavender oil to treat migraines and the conclusion was – “the present study suggests that inhalation of lavender essential oil may be an effective and safe treatment modality in acute management of migraine headaches.”
Peppermint
The active ingredient in peppermint essential oil is Menthol, it’s that strong minty aroma that we are all familiar with. Peppermint has been used since waaaaaay back to treat headaches! A study carried out in 2019 compared the effect of lidocaine versus peppermint essential oil on migraine attacks. The conclusion was – “nasal application of peppermint oil caused considerable reduction in the intensity and frequency of headache and relieved majority of patients’ pain similar to lidocaine.”
Also take note that peppermint is good for relieving nausea. A side effect of headaches and especially migraines is feeling sick, so peppermint oil can also help with that.
Rosemary
Rosemary essential oil can be used to treat and alleviate all kinds of symptoms and issues.
This study here from 2015 supports the idea that the oil may have the ability to relieve pain. It also suggests that rosemary essential oil might be more effective as a painkiller when combined with other analgesic drugs.
Eucalyptus
The oil of the eucalyptus tree has a wide range of medicinal benefits. It can be used as a pain reliever, to reduce inflammation and help with respiratory problems.
It is particularly good at alleviating headaches that arise from sinus problems. Eucalyptus essential oil also helps to unblock nasal pathways and reduce pressure in the sinuses, which is a common cause of headaches.
How do you use essential oils for headaches?
The main methods of application are:
Direct application to skin:
You should always dilute essential oils with carrier oil first before applying to the skin. You can use sweet almond oil or coconut oil…or even olive oil which most people have in their home. Once diluted, massage a small amount around your temples and forehead.
Inhalation:
Inhale the essential oil by putting a few drops onto a tissue or hankie. Hold under your nose and breathe in deeply.
Cold compress:
Soak a flannel in cold water and add a few drops of your chosen essential oil. Then apply the cold compress to the forehead and back of the neck. Cooling and soothing!
Warm bath:
Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a warm bath. Relax and breathe deeply!
NB
As usual, always be careful when using essential oils. Some of the above mentioned oils come with risks and contraindications.
Rosemary oil should not be used by pregnant women, or people with high blood pressure or epilepsy. Peppermint oil is not suitable for children or if you have heart disease.
It is recommended to check with your Doctor first before using any essential oil as a headache remedy.
