More than half of the global population experiences occasional or periodic migraines, with factors such as stress, diet, and hormonal shifts contributing to troublesome episodes of pain, encompassing both headaches and migraines.
Mitigating Frequent Headaches and Migraines
Addressing stress and adopting dietary recommendations can be effective in averting migraines. Notably, certain foods have been confirmed as potential triggers for migraine occurrences.
A plausible cause of migraines is the presence of tyramine in these foods, a substance known to expand blood vessels.
Foods commonly associated with headache triggers include:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Coffee
- Dairy products
- Specific vegetables (beans, peas, onions, olives)
- Certain fruits (avocado, citrus fruits, bananas, figs, nuts)
- Chocolate
- Specific additives
Another migraine-contributing factor could be the diminished activity of the DAO enzyme (diamine oxidase enzyme). This enzyme assists in metabolizing dietary histamine, so reduced enzyme function elevates histamine levels in the body, possibly fostering pain onset.
Female hormones also play a role in the enzyme’s functionality, making women more susceptible to headaches and migraines.
HERBAL REMEDIES FOR HEADACHES AND MIGRAINES
Since migraines originate from diverse sources, understanding their causes is crucial in selecting suitable natural pain relievers.
Herbal Solutions for Headaches and Migraines Certain medicinal plants can serve as valuable allies. Some plants are used through infusions or essential oils, or both, depending on the case. Essential oils may be used independently or in aromatherapy blends targeting migraines.
These plants may also support nutrient intake or be taken as supplements, such as magnesium or vitamin B2.
Outlined below are some potent natural analgesics for headaches and migraines.
PEPPERMINT AND PENNYROYAL
Peppermint and Pennyroyal for Alleviating Headaches and Migraines Infusions derived from peppermint (Mentha piperita) and pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) have proven effective against tension-related headaches.
Menthol within peppermint also acts as an analgesic. Inhaling peppermint essential oil helps regulate blood circulation, thus alleviating pain.
For migraines, peppermint essential oil can be gently massaged onto the temples, eye sockets, neck base, and behind the ears.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY CHAMOMILE
Chamomile for Easing Headaches and Migraines Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a valuable plant for addressing headaches, owing to its anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, attributed to chamazulene and bisabolol. It also contains flavonoids and coumarins that safeguard blood vessels and possess analgesic traits.
Research from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences suggests that these compounds affirm chamomile’s traditional use against headaches.
Chamomile additionally contains bitter components aiding digestion.
Consumption: As a preventative measure, opt for 2 or 3 daily infusions (using 5 or 6 flower heads per cup) or between 100 to 200 mg of chamomile extract daily.
FEVERFEW (WILD CHAMOMILE) FOR MIGRAINE PREVENTION
Feverfew for Mitigating Headaches and Migraines Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is an exceptional preventative remedy for migraines due to its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory attributes. It includes parthenolide, a natural analgesic.
Dosage: Ingesting 500 mg of dry extract daily reduces migraine frequency, intensity, and associated vomiting. Precautions: Avoid concurrent use with anticoagulants or aspirin.
LINDEN, PASSION FLOWER, OR WILD LETTUCE TEA
Passion Flower for Easing Headaches and Migraines For tension-induced headaches, consider linden, passionflower, or wild lettuce tea, possessing mild antispasmodic and anxiolytic effects.
For wild lettuce tea, boil a few leaves in a cup of water for two minutes.
Regarding linden and passionflower, a teaspoon of dried herbs is suitable for preparing a teacup.
WHITE WILLOW
White Willow for Easing Headaches and Migraines Extract from white willow bark, or its decoction, provides relief from various types of pain. It also serves as an antispasmodic and digestive tonic.
Consumption: Opt for 120 to 240 mg of salicin from bark extract daily, or 3 to 5 g per cup of tea to alleviate headaches.
For an extraordinary and distinctive flavor experience, explore our unique selection of teas at Hummingbird Tearoom. Enhance any of our organic teas with medicinal herbs crafted for both pleasure and well-being.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
Hummingbirdtearoom.com cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.