How Essential Oils Provide Headache Relief
Headaches may very well be the most widespread ailment of the modern age – especially considering what’s been transpiring over the last year. Though the annoying aches have many causes,...
Headaches may very well be the most widespread ailment of the modern age – especially considering what’s been transpiring over the last year. Though the annoying aches have many causes, they have in recent years been attributed more and more frequently to stress and poor sleeping habits – both of which are prevalent in our increasingly busy lifestyles. Though it can be tempting to just pop a couple of aspirin and try to get on with your day, that may not be the most attractive solution to those looking for natural remedies (or to those who’ve grown so dependent on the drug that it no longer even works). If your headaches have you at your wit’s end, it may be time to see for yourself how effective essential oils can be at treating this all too common malady.
Please be aware that none of what follows should be considered as qualified medical advice. Consult with your doctor before beginning any aromatherapy regimen.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil provides headache relief – both internally and externally. When applied topically to the forehead and temples, the oil leaves a long-lasting cooling sensation that can refresh your senses and counteract the skin heat common to many headaches. At the same time, the oil’s ability to inhibit muscle contractions and inhibit blood flow can go a long way towards addressing the physiological causes of a headache. It’s for these reasons that peppermint essential oil was documented in multiple studies as effective in reducing both pain and sensitivity in headache sufferers. What’s more, the oil offers these benefits with no adverse side effects, which is more than can be said for virtually every headache remedy on the market today. Dilute two to three drops of peppermint oil with a carrier oil and rub the solution on your shoulders, forehead, and the back of your neck for a refreshing salve that can improve blood circulation, relieve tension and, most importantly, lessen the pain of even the most splitting headaches.
Lavender Essential Oil
Well known for its ability to induce relaxation and reduce stress, the lavender essential oil is particularly adept to treat headaches caused by anxiety disorders and other neurological ailments. That’s because the main components of the oil – linalool and linalyl acetate – are believed to possess the ability to depress the central nervous system, which can cause headaches when overstimulated.
As mentioned, those that sleep poorly can expect to suffer more headaches than those that get a good night’s rest. Many sleep medications come with unpleasant side effects, however, and some individuals find themselves still feeling sluggish even after a full night of medication-induced rest. If you’ve had a similar experience, you may instead try inhaling lavender essential oil (just a slight amount) before turning in for the night. Though the lessening of headache frequency and severity may be your main concern, you can still enjoy the myriad health benefits that come with consistent, uninterrupted rest.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Headaches are caused by more than just stress and lack of sleep. Many individuals experience crippling aches thanks to blocked nasal airways and the resulting buildup of sinus pressure. As with headaches, there’s any number of medications you can take to address that blockage – also as with headaches, doing so puts you at the risk of nasty side effects that can be even worse than the ailment itself. Luckily, using eucalyptus essential oils for your headaches also been shown to be extremely effective at clearing sinus passages without any significant side effects. Furthermore, the eucalyptus oil does so while also boosting your mood and refresh your mind. As with peppermint, this oil is best applied to your chest, neck, and forehead along with a carrier oil. Inhale its scent throughout the day and eucalyptus can help keep both your mind and your nasal airways free and clear.
Rosemary Essential Oil
The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of rosemary essential oil make it an exceptional choice for general headache treatment. In addition, the oil is also known to lessen stress and anxiety while also serving as a terrific remedy for gastrointestinal issues, all of which have been known to trigger headaches. Though rosemary essential oil can be applied topically, it can also be ingested for quick relief from sudden headache onset. A drop of rosemary oil added to a drink or to your soup can go a long way towards managing a variety of headache-related symptoms. As an added benefit, rosemary has also been shown to improve memory and focus. A task that seemed impossible while your head was pounding can become as easy as pie once your mind is sharp and your thoughts are focused.
Conclusion
The stress and lack of sleep common to our modern lifestyles mean that headaches, unfortunately, won’t be going away anytime soon. That doesn’t mean, however, that you have to suffer until you find the balance that makes the annoying aches a thing of the past. With these essential oils in your arsenal, you’ll have all the weapons you need to keep your mind unburdened and ready to take on the challenges of the day. If you have any further questions about using essential oils for headache treatment – or are just curious about making these remarkable, natural products a bigger part of your life – please feel free to get in touch with one of our friendly and knowledgeable customer care representatives.