DavidWolfe.comStress, alcohol, coffee, fatigue, allergies, sugar… all of these substances have something in common: they are often the cause of painful headaches. (1) Headaches are often your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. They may be a sign that you are dehydrated, in need of sleep or nutrient-deficient. The natural headache remedies below can help you figure out how to get rid of a headache without medicine.
Natural Headache Remedies
1. Magnesium
For headache treatment at home, make sure your diet contains plenty of magnesium. Headache sufferers are often magnesium-deficient. Studies suggest that the mineral may help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks by blocking the pain-transmitting chemicals in the brain.
2. A Gluten-Free Diet
If you are sensitive to gluten, the bread, pasta or other food items you’re eating that contain gluten could be causing your headaches. According to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, patients who suffer from migraine headaches and undiagnosed celic disease often see a significant reduction in headaches often giving up gluten. (2)
3. Chiropractic Care
Regular visits to the chiropractor can help reduce oxidative stress in the body. Clinical trials have shown that chiropractic adjustments help alleviate stress, which is the main cause of tension headaches. (3)
4. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil can be used as an instant home remedy for a headache. Known as a mood stabilizer and a sedative, lavender oil is a safe and effective treatment for migraine headaches. If you’re wondering how to make a headache go away fast without medicine, diffuse lavender oil or rub it on your forehead, temples and on the back of your neck.
5. B-Complex Vitamins
Many B Vitamins play a role the formation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. People who suffer from migraines are often deficient in serotonin. Taking B-complex vitamins can help improve brain function, boost circulation and reduce mental stress. (4)
6. A Detox Bath
Natural headache remedies can include a detox both. Adding baking soda, essential oils or apple cider vinegar to warm bath water can help relieve stress that causes tension headaches while bringing toxins to the surface of your skin. As the water cools, your body will release the toxins.
7. Stretching
Sitting in one position for a long period of time can cause tension in build up in your body, which can lead to a headache. Stretching and moving act as natural headache remedies because they help relieve built-up stress and loosen your muscles.
8. Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat a wide variety of health issues, including migraines. (5) According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture balances the body’s energy to help relieve chronic pain and illness.
9. Rest
One of the most common things to do when you have a headache at home is to find a dark, quiet room and rest. Sit in a dark room, close your eyes and focus on relieving the tension in your neck, back and shoulders.
10. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper has the ability to stimulate circulation in the body. The capsaicin it contains also treats pain and inflammation. Try applying cayenne pepper topically to relieve headache symptoms and help your muscles relax. (6)
11. Compress
A hot or cold compress can help relieve headache pain. Many people who suffer from tension headaches prefer a warm compress, while people who suffer from migraines often prefer a cold compress for pain relief.
12. Water
Headaches are often the result of dehydration. Drinking coffee, sugary drinks and alcohol can dehydrate the body and cause painful headaches. Make sure to drink plenty of water each day to keep your body hydrated. You can also add nutritious fruits and vegetables to your diet for added hydration, such as cucumbers, celery, watermelon, oranges and cantaloupe.
Sources:
1. Mayo Clinic
2. Beyond Celiac
3. University of Maryland Medical Center
4. NCBI
5. Web MD
6. University of Maryland Medical Center