A headache is one of the most common health problems that bothers people of all age groups.While you might find it easier to pop a pill every now and then, trying a few effective remedies can prove to be a winner in relieving headache without side effects of medications. The most common causes of a headache include stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, improper diet, excessive alcohol intake, eye strain, high blood pressure, migraine, smoking and pollution.
HOME REMEDIES TO RELIEVE A HEADACHE
Here are some simple and effective natural remedies to get rid of a headache instantly:
1 . Ginger
This is a really well-known remedy to headaches. Smash a ½ an inch of ginger and brew a cup of tea with it. It will impart a strong pungent flavour to the mixture and reduce inflammation of the blood vessels of the head thereby relieving headache. As ginger also aids digestion, it reduces the nauseating that occurs during migraines.
2 . Lemon
Being rich in antioxidants, lemon juice soothes agitated sinuses and helps reduce headaches. Prepare a cup of tea with the juice of a lemon and honey and have it warm. One may also grind the skin of lemons and apply it on the temple for alleviating headaches.
3 . Pepper
While troubled by a headache, try a hot bowl of soup with a dash of ground pepper. It will reduce inflammation and decongest the nose that will ultimately help you breathe freely and get rid of the headache.
4 . Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an excellent spice to relieve headache. Make a thick paste of cinnamon and water and apply to the forehead. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes before washing it off and seeing your headache leave you, for good.
5 . Essential Oils
Exotic essential oils like peppermint oil and lavender oil are all the rage now due to their medicinal properties. These show very quick results by opening the clogged vessels up, relaxing the muscles, soothing the sinuses and jangled nerves. A few ways to use:
-Peppermint Oil: Dilute 2-3 drops of peppermint oil a tablespoon of water and massage the temples and the neck with it. Add a few drops of a cup of tea and sip away the pain.
-Lavender Oil: Put a few drops of lavender oil on a handkerchief or tissue and smell the scent or add a few drops to boiling water and inhale the steam.
-Basil Oil: Use it the same way as lavender oil or prepare a cup of tea by adding a few basil (tulsi) leaves to it and sip on it.
One of the most common causes of painful headaches is dehydration. So remember to drink 1-2 liters of water and have water-rich fruits like cucumber or watermelon to keep headache at bay. Also, if you work on the computer for prolonged hours, take a break from your desk every hour for 2-3 minutes. If your headache is chronic or if you get frequent episodes of headache, consult a doctor for proper evaluation.